'Kutrame Thandanai': An eye for an eye

A still from the movie

Language: Tamil

Director: Manikandan Mathialagan

Kutrame Thandanai is a film that revolves around the idea of ‘what goes around, does it come around?’ to put it simply. On another level though, it’s an interesting look at organised crime, survival techniques and how it all pans out when roughed up by shams of bigger magnitude.

Ravichander (Vidharth) is a collection agent working for a private bank with an eye impairment—an unusual case of tunnel vision, which lets him see only things that are directly in front of him. When the doctor he consults says that surgery is the only option, he doesn’t think it is possible to raise the amount of money suggested, but then, opportunity strikes.

When his neighbour, Swetha (Aishwarya Rajesh) who works as a secretary to a businessman dies a gruesome death, he is asked to shush by many fingers in return for money. The story details how Ravichander makes use of the given opportunity and whether he gets what he wants by the end of it all.

It is also a suspense story, with the dubious incident of a murder committed. Nasser plays a credit card customer of the bank, who Ravichander meets at his home often. He is the one to whom Ravichander talks to about his life and problems.

The screenplay is strong and the story exudes confidence. There are subtle observations made by director Manikandan on burgeoning corruption climbing up the social echelons. The theme is quite different from his previous outing Kakka Muttai, but one common factor for all the troubles caused in both the movies remains money.

The actors, especially Vidharth, has done a great job; the way he rides his bike taking quick glances sideways since his vision doesn’t extend to the sides, seems credible. The music by Ilaiyaraja that works in the background is subtle and never overpowering.

The strong point of the movie is its sturdy plot. Except for minor glitches that almost gives the plot away, it’s a smooth criminal act for most part. Intriguing? Yes.

Star factors

» Well organised crime thriller, with good performances.