Ever since the release of the teaser and the 'Kaathale Kaathale' song, the Vijay Sethupathi - Trisha starrer '96, became one of the most expected films, among the youngsters and film buffs. This feel-good romantic entertainer is finally out and here is our review.
If you've had seen the trailer of the film, then you need no introduction to the film's plot. Two schooltime lovers, Ramachandran and Janaki Devi get separated due to unavoidable circumstances and they lose touch. They're put together yet again after a long gap of 22 years through a school reunion. What happened in their lives in these past twenty-two years is what 96 is all about. Will Ram (Vijay Sethupathi) and Jaanu (Trisha) join hands and get to live together now? Catch the film to know the answer.
96 has two powerhouse performers taking the center-stage, who carry the film on their shoulders. Their effortless and intense acting takes you through various emotions. There is one particular scene post-interval, where Vijay Sethupathi and Trisha converse with each other, recollecting their post-school and college memories. That scene is an example to prove why Vijay and Trisha are tailor-made for the characters of Ram and Jaanu. Vijay Sethupathi's casual portrayal as Ram looks lively, while Trisha scores with a subtle yet intense performance as Jaanu. Going down the line, Ram and Jaanu will be one of the most remembered characters in Tamil Cinema and '96 will be a remarkable addition to Vijay Sethupathi's and Trisha's filmography. Devadarshini, Bagavathi Perumal, and Aadukalam Murugadoss add to the fun quotient throwing up some light-hearted moments.
Adhithya Baaskar, Gouri, and Niyathi Kadambi, who play the childhood versions of Vijay Sethupathi, Trisha, and Devadarshini respectively garner quite some attention. It is an impressive debut for Adhithya, who looks believable as an innocent chap. Gouri is fantastic as young Jaanu and her expressions are top-notch. Niyathi scores with the limited space given to her.
Director Prem Kumar should be lauded for beautifully executing this product. The writing is neat and confined with no deviations, and he goes a step further with the execution. The visual treatment of the film is a lovable feast to the human eyes.
Right from the special thanks card, the film begins with the sounds taking the driver's seat. The beautiful picturization of 'Life of Ram' song gives a wonderful start to the film, and there is no looking back at all. The school portions in the first half will surely bring out nostalgic memories for many. 96 will help you revisit your school days and your first love.
The screenplay is filled with so many subtle 'WOW' moments that will please you. The magical placement of 'Kaadhale Kaadhale' song is a highlight. Not just that, there are ample examples to supplement this point. 'Yamunai Aatrile (Thalapathi)' song finds the right place in the movie, striking the perfect chord. The best part about 96 is the mood of the film, that doesn't change at any juncture. The breeziness is spread throughout and there is no melodrama at all.
Due credits to director Prem for a beautiful and a heartwarming climax, without any cinematic compromises. The entire second half of the film has only two characters, Ram and Janu, who leave no stones unturned. 96 is full of love, romance, and beautiful emotions with a heartwarming screenplay. Catch it to get immersed.
A section of the audience might feel the pace of the film as a concern in the second half, but that doesn't seem like a major complaint at all. The music lovers might feel that 'Anthaathi', and 'Kaathale Kaathale' could have been more extensively used.
Govind Vasantha's songs and background score is the life of the film and it feeds the right emotions. 96 is a musically rich film and kudos to Govind putting out a soulful score. Shanmuga Sundaram and Mahendiran Jeyaraju's visuals look colorful, capturing the beauty of nature apart from the beauty of the leads. In a fast moving world like this, we tend to miss the scenic beauty that is around us in our day to day life, and 96 will be a reality check to that. Govindaraj's editing looks mature and neat with no external hindrances.
To put it in simple words, 96 is a breezy and heartwarming romantic tale that Tamil cinema audience shouldn't miss. The entire team of 96 have come together to throw some positivity to the audience.
[Reviewed after a special preview show on Monday, October 1st. Movie releases on Thursday, October 4th.]