Parole is a thriller written and directed by Dwarakh Raja featuring RS Karthik, Linga, Kalpika Ganesh and Monisha Murali in the lead roles, produced by S Madhusudhanan for Tripr Entertainment. Once in a while Tamil cinema comes up with films which genuinely surprise us. And when a small film does that, it is a treat for people who love cinema.

Parole is one such file which dares to be different. It could have easily turned out as a film which talks about the clash among brothers just on the surface level or it could have turned into a mother-sentiment film but Dwarakh Raja gives us a film which dares to be different in its treatment and execution with deeper insights. There's a genuineness which shines through every frame as the film keeps us hooked from start to end.

Two brothers at loggerheads - One a criminal in jail and the other a commoner who goes on with his life. And we have a mother who awaits the return of her prodigal son. The mother's unexpected death brings the two brothers a little closer as the younger one tries to bring out the elder on Parole to perform the mother's last rites. Will he succeed or will he not? You have to watch the film to find out. Lingaa gets a meaty role and shines as the elder brother.

Despite the fact that he is a criminal we empathize with him as his trauma unravels right in front of our eyes. RS Karthik who plays the younger one impresses us with a sincere portrayal. The point where he feels that his mother is partial to her elder son is an emotion all siblings go through while growing up. But we grow past it.

Janaki Suresh is also relatable in her role as the doting mother who never gives up on her son. Vinodhini Vaidyanathan gives us a very earnest performance as the lawyer. Both Kalpika and Monisha Murali are adequate and do what is required.

Rajkumar Amal's background and Magesh Thirunavukarasu's cinematography are lifelines of the film and help to heighten the grittiness and raw emotions of the film. Parole is Dwarakh Raja's second outing after the very underrated Kadhal Kasakuthaiya.

The genre switch from love in his first film to raw violence and brotherhood in Parole is quite commendable. The sincere writing and the way the story is presented deserves a special applause. Dwarakh never compromised on his vision to give us a raw film with realistic emotions. The film also touches upon sensitive topics like marital rape, abuse etc without being too preachy. Vijay Sethupathi's voiceover is a nice touch.

On the downside, the excessive violence might be a turn-off for the audience. Parole isn't a film meant for everyone either. It is a daring in your face experience which doesn't hold back. But it is a small film made with utmost sincerity and dedication and such films deserve our backing.