Promoted as 'India’s first alien hand syndrome film’, Peechaankai has hit the screens today, among good anticipation due to the buzz created by the trailer of the film.
Smuthu (Karthiik), who is a pickpocket expert, meets with an accident and after that incident, he starts to suffer from a disease, alien hand syndrome, which means that his left hand wouldn't be under his control. Now, what problems this syndrome creates and how does it bring about a change in Smuthu's life? The film answers these questions in a very interesting manner.
This is the debut film of lead hero Karthiik, who has effortlessly pulled off his role. Playing this kind of a role needs some high level of clarity and he has consciously made sure that he didn’t commit even a small mistake on screen. While watching the film, you might know what we are talking about. Anjali Rao’s characterisation looks a little weak, as she becomes a mainstream heroine, in an experimental film like this. The main highlights of the film are the supporting characters, like Gaja, Maari, Gireesh, Joseph, Nalla Thambi, and others. Their lively performances add so much value to the film’s humour.
The writing has been a big strength for the film and debutant Ashok has also cleverly worked on the screenplay at most parts. The film works well in most parts, as the audience connect well with the characters, thanks to the humour and again, the writing. However, the slow pace of the movie, especially in the second half, is worrying and it takes some time to keep you engaged.
On the technical front, the film doesn’t stand high, but with the limited resources and the low production value, they have tried their best to make it look good. The songs have been written and composed supplementing the core plot of the movie, but it doesn’t stay with you. The background score might have been a little more intense and powerful. Editing could have been crispier and different style of cuts could have been used, as you see the ‘fade’ transitions often.
With a syndrome like this, there are two ways to convey the story, either a serious path or a fun filled humorous ride. The makers have chosen the second part, like Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom. Ashok's creative thinking and writing have come in as a plus for the movie. Though you might feel the limited production value during the start of the movie, it begins to fade out, as the movie progresses, as the humour in the screenplay dominates it.