Gandhi Kannadi Review – A Bittersweet Tale that works in places

Gandhi Kannadi Review – A Bittersweet Tale that works in places

Gandhi Kannadi signals an earnest directorial stride for Sherief, whose earlier work Ranam Aram Thavarel found modest recognition. In his latest outing, he pivots towards an intimate, feel-good narrative that delicately intertwines personal longing with social upheaval.

At its heart lies the story of a childless couple, portrayed with remarkable restraint by Balaji Sakthivel and Archana. Their unfulfilled desire to celebrate a Sashtiapthapoorthi, the 60th wedding anniversary ritual traditionally organized by one’s children, becomes the emotional fulcrum of the film. KPY Bala, stepping into his first leading role, embodies the event organizer who attempts to fulfill this poignant wish for the sake of this elderly couple, who has been more like his family, but with less attachment. The script’s ingenious turn arrives when demonetisation disrupts their modest plans, infusing the narrative with both realism and urgency.

Sherief crafts the film with sincerity and sensitivity. The screenplay may appear deceptively simple, yet it thrives on its textured dialogues, evocative flashback sequences, and a quiet elegance in its visual language. The younger version of Archana, in particular, is sketched with tenderness, further enriching the couple’s backstory.

Performances remain the film’s strongest asset. Balaji Sakthivel imbues his role with understated gravitas, while Archana radiates vulnerability and quiet strength. Bala, best known for his comedic persona, works diligently to recalibrate himself into a dramatic register, delivering a performance that, while uneven at times, signals promising growth. Namitha Krishnamoorthy has limited screen presence but offers a convincing turn, while the supporting ensemble provides admirable support. The film’s climax will be quite shocking, and might send some unexpected emotional turbulences upon the audiences, and that’s where the film misses the mark of entering ‘EXCELLENT’ zone, and limits itself with ‘GOOD’ mark.

Musically, the film employs melodies that are pleasant if not groundbreaking, and the picturisation maintains a sense of dignity throughout.

Ultimately, Gandhi Kannadi is less about narrative twists and more about the emotional resonance of unfulfilled desires and modest dreams. It may not aim for grandeur, but in its quiet, heartfelt approach, it captures a rare poignancy that lingers well beyond the closing frame.