There are many films which showcase how the common man is manipulated and used by the authorities and the powers that be. Ramnath who had earlier collaborated with Karunas for the 2010 film Ambasamudram Ambani re-unites with him again in Aadhaar.
Karunas plays the common man who is pitted against a wretched system with no redemption in sight. He is the construction worker searching for his wife. Does he find her? Will the authorities play a helping hand or will they leave him stranded? You have to watch the film to find out.
For Karunas it is a meaty role. He gives it his all as we empathize with his helplessness. After a certain point we feel sorry for him as his search goes in vain. He carries the film on his able shoulders knowing fully well that this is one of those roles which would bring out the actor in him. It is a win for Karunas in that aspect.
Riythvika is the driving force of the film. She is the pawn used by the authorities. Despite being a central character, the scope of her role is less. But she does what is required in a role which is not very demanding.
Uma Riyaz and Bahubali Prabhakar play roles which expose the negative side of the department and both of them deliver without a fuss. Arun Pandian who plays the aged cop tries his best but the role does not translate well. Iniya who plays Riythvika's aide and Dileepan are the other notable members of the cast.
Mahesh Muthuswamy's camera work is mighty impressive and gives a realistic feel to the proceedings. Srikanth Deva's songs are plausible but BGM blends well with events unfolding on screen. The costumes especially for Karunas also make the characters relatable.
The director's guts to let go of commercial troupes deserves applause. There's no compromise at any point. But the film falters after the halfway point. The slow pacing of the film acts as a deterrent. Aadhaar lacks the finesse of films like Visaranai which also dealt with the plight of the common man. The non-linear narrative also doesn't help much.
Ramnath does have the right intentions. His heart wants to tell a good story. That is quite evident but it does not translate well as an engaging screenplay on screen. Aadhaar isn't a perfect film but it has a story which needs to be told and a message which needs to be conveyed. For that alone the film deserves a watch.