After establishing a market for herself by delivering female-centric hits like Maya and Aramm, Lady superstar Nayanthara is back with Kolamaavu Kokila (Coco). With debutant Nelson at the helm, Anirudh Ravichander takes control of the music and Sivakumar Vijayan captures this dark comedy smuggling thriller.
Succumbing to personal pressures, Kokila (Nayanthara) is forced to enter a dangerous territory in which she is a fresher. Whether and how it helps her is what forms the crux of Kolamaavu Kokila. In a film that evidently deals with cocaine smuggling, it is appreciable that they have made sure not to insert any smoking or drinking scenes. Though they are perspicuous about not endorsing drug usage.
First up, it is an impressive debut for Nelson as his clarity on sketching the screenplay is praise-worthy. He plays with the dark humour in an engaging manner and establishes the motive of the characters from the word go. However, it must be noted that he has dealt with a beaten story. The laudable factor is how he has given a different dimension to it. The first half races towards the intermission and gives an adrenaline high when we walk out for the break. But, some sequences in the second half fall into formats. But this seems to work in the overall scheme of things.
With an ultimately satisfying end to all the built-up mass sequences, one might feel that the climactic buildup could have been more convincing. The titular definition was an interesting addition to the climax.
Throughout the first half, Yogi Babu appears in very few sequences. But just before you're let down by that, the second half gives ample screen time and importance for him to deliver hilarious punchlines. With the inclusion of his one-liners in the funnily constructed sequences, it works! Anbu Thaasan's characterization might seem to irk a few initially, but he too scores along with Yogi Babu in the second half. The base of the film is dark humor and it works in the majority with very few backlogs.
Saranya Ponvannan, Shivaji, and Jacqueline as Nayan's family members deliver sound performances and give some solid support. Hareesh Peradi and Charles Vinod prove to be good additions to the cast list. An eccentric character in the opposite camp adds value to the dark humor. Motta Rajendran's functional performance gathers a few laughs.
There is some attractive lighting in accordance with some interesting frames and Sivakumar Vijayan, the cinematographer can be credited for the same. Nirmal Kumar's edits are passable. Coming to the star of the moment.. rather, superstar of the moment, Nayanthara is a treat to watch on screen. She underplays her character with elegance and proves her expertise and experience with ease. Even her slightest of reactions are appealing and with a contrasting performance from her recent films, she is sure to grab the limelight.
Now, for those of you who thought this film doesn't have a hero, here's your answer. There most definitely is one! Anirudh Ravichander continues to demonstrate as to why he is a rockstar! The songs have already been chart toppers, and his BGM score is a sure shot winner. He sticks to Spanish mafia-ish, Narcos-esque scores that fall right into the mood of the film. A special shout-out for the placement of Gun-in Kadhal song and Vignesh ShivN's lyrics. It effortlessly hits the high note!
Simply put, snort this Coco to get high on laughter and entertainment!
Edhuvaraiyo
Vocals: Sean Roldan and Gautham Menon
Lyrics: Vivek and Gautham Menon
Edhuvaraiyo was the first single that was released by the team a couple of months ago. The song turned all eyes on Kolamaavu Kokila after this track's announcement. It has become a routine for Anirudh to come out with interesting tracks ever since his debut in the industry, and Edhuvaraiyo is no less. It is safe to call this song an enchanting melody and his collaboration with Sean Roldan never disappoints. Keba Jeremiah's support with the guitars adds immense value to the song and it complements the trap beats that run throughout the song. Sean Roldan's unique voice structure has often been spoken about, and he is a big positive to this song. Gautham Menon joins the bandwagon with his words and deep voice, giving the song a motivational push.
Kalyana Vayasu
Vocals: Anirudh Ravichander
Lyrics: Sivakarthikeyan
Musically, the trippy beat, along with Anirudh's wacky rendition grabs all the attention in Kalyana Vayasu. Lyrically, Sivakarthikeyan is a show-stealer. The lyrics are simple, candid and it fits the given situation like a bolt on the nut! Kalyana Vayasu took the internet by storm for its youthfulness and there's no doubt why it wouldn't do so. A simple yet addictive composition over the beat is what makes this track a winner.
Orey Oru
Vocals: Anirudh Ravichander and Jonita Gandhi
Lyrics: Vignesh ShivN
The quintessential Anirudh melody is what Orey Oru is. Like most of his melodies, this song has the capability to resonate in your head after a couple of listens. Once again, Keba Jeremiah's expertise comes in handy, as the song is based out of the guitar strumming. It takes an immaculate turn into the melodica, which is pleasing to the ear. Needless to say, Anirudh and Jonita's endearing rendition is what gives the track a complete feel!
Kabiskabaa Coco - The Gibberish song
Vocals: Arunraja Kamaraj
How often do we hear songs with gibberish lyrics? Kabiskabaa Coco is an immediate addiction for those who like fleet-footed songs. The beat picks up instantaneously and then there's no stopping this song. Arunraja Kamaraj is known for his voice which never fails to give a gripping feel to any track. Ultimately, this seems to be the song that will accompany a chasing sequence. Khaarem Kamlakhar's flute is extremely appealing, especially in its pace! The synths used are interesting and they sound exciting.
Thittam Poda Theriyala
Vocals: Anirudh Ravichander
Lyrics: Vignesh ShivN
As much as it is dominated by the synth, the song doesn't sound very synthetic. A natural and grounded feel is brought into the song with the superb use of the sitar. The guitars are attractive and accompany the synths functionally. Vignesh ShivN gives his trademark touch to the lyrics, while Anirudh renders them in his usual prepossessing style. The hook could seem compelling to most listeners as Anirudh strikes the right chord!
Gun-In Kadhal
Vocals: Vijay Yesudas and Arunraja Kamaraj
Lyrics: Vignesh ShivN
Anirudh has always made use of his opportunities to show off his prowess in techno arrangements. This is a typical Anirudh-esque trippy EDM track! At first impression, Vijay Yesudas excites us and makes sure that he is a superb choice for this song! Kabiskabaa Coco has been infused with this track to channel the intensity of the situation at hand. Gun-In Kadhal has all the capabilities to become the pick of the album for many!