Ashok Selvan is someone who is known for taking the road less travelled in his films. Irrespective of the box office results there is always something to look forward to in each of his films. His latest Nitham Oru Vaanam is another attempt to give the viewers something different directed by Ra Karthik and produced by Viacom18 Studios & Rise East Entertainment.

The plot is quite simple - An introvert with OCD learns to shed his inhibitions as life teaches him some valuable lessons. For Ashok there is ample scope to prove himself as a performer as he assumes different identities in his journey towards redemption. Right from the body language to the way he speaks is different for the different characters he plays and he pulls it off quite admirably.

Aparna Balamurali who plays Mathi is quite a charmer. Almost like an extension of her Bommi role but it is extremely difficult not to like her. She is effortless and sparkles in her role. Azhagam Perumal plays her dad. The bonding between the dad and daughter is relatable and heart-warming.

Ritu Varma plays the travel partner that Ashok Selvan desperately needs. Her brightness and positive personality rub off on Ashok Selvan too. Ritu Varma is a pretty presence and does a very good job without much of a fuss. 

The young Shivatmika is paired with a very rebellious and unpredictable Ashok Selvan. She does what is required but you might be left wanting for more. Maybe it's because of the initial detachment towards the behavior of the protagonist. We slowly warm up to his fallacies as the journey unravels.

Seeing Abhirami (Virumandi) on-screen was a delight. She makes a mark in a short but impactful role. There are many surprising cameos in the film but they are beautifully woven into the story. There's a sense of joy in seeing our favourite stars in a meaningful cameo.

Besides the characters a travel film has to be strong in the technical aspects to make us root for the hero. Cinematography by Vidhu Ayyana is the soul of the film and captures the different locations beautifully. It was like one perfect love letter to the beauty of nature. Art Direction by Kamal Nathan and costumes Navadevi Raikumar are added attractions. Dharan Kumar's background score blends well with the film.

The sense of familiarity in the first half is a bit of a downer as the scenes remind you of famous films of the years gone by. The run-time is a stretch and could have been crisper. And at certain points you remain detached from the film and its hero.

Ra Karthik comes up with a very earnest and shows a lot of promise in his first film. Special kudos for giving a film filled with positivity and hope which is much needed in today's world. Overall, despite a few blemishes Nitham Oru Vaanam is a lovely travel film which will tug at your heartstrings.