Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka is many things. In fact, it’s too many things. Firstly, it’s a thriller based on a man whose life changes because of words which should have been left unsaid (hence the title, duh). Then it’s a friendship film. Then it’s also a romantic comedy. At any given point, there’s just too much going on with Sathya Prabhas Pinisetty’s debut effort. Vengeance has to be served, gravity defying fight sequences must be included. With all this, space must somehow be made for the irrepressible heroine, who buys beer and doesn’t drink it (what a waste of good beer, really).
So, the overall effect goes from the realm of the confusing to the realm of the unsettling.
******
Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka Movie Stills
Kudumbama? Natpa? growls Mudaliar, in a striking post-interval scene. A valid question, if you really think about it. The best part about this film is that you never really know which way Saga swings till the very end. He waxes poetic about his friends and, at the same time, cannot let go of his family. His choice (when he does make one) is most unusual.
Aadhi’s middle-class life is enlivened by his three rich friends. They offer him a lifestyle that his parents cannot afford and do not approve of. Essentially, they are his meal ticket. A hall pass to the exclusive world of ‘expensive cars, designer wear, costly gifts, restaurants, nightclubs, parties…’
Curiously, it is at one of these friend-sponsored parties that a bad, bad thing happens. Enough alcohol, and everybody’s saying the wrong things. Tempers flare and voilà, we get to the logic behind the title. Saga’s choice is difficult, yes. He has idolised his friends for the better part of his life, and takes his parents’ warnings lightly. It is only at times of strife and betrayal that he comes to many an important realization.
The film is also about loyalty. Saga, used to a life paid for by his friends, struggles to find common ground between them and the ones that birthed him. Sensible, really. Because we’ve all had our fill of films where the thaaikulam reigns, haven’t we?
*****
Sathya Prabhas Pinisetty is just modern enough to have the heroine step into a tasmac shop and casually order ‘cold beer’, but retains enough prudishness to build a convenient excuse for her to actually do that. Nikki Galrani otherwise plays the Tamil cinema version of the Manic Pixie Girl. Though this time, a little less pei. Aadhi, on the other hand, is in his element. Whether it’s the aforementioned fight sequences or the scenes where he’s supposed to play the beleaguered friend, he shines. In a film packed with the talents of Mithun Chakraborty, Nasser, Pasupathy and many others, that’s saying something. The acting is flawless, with every actor making an impact.
Recommended
Meant as a cautionary tale, the film meanders into different genres and sub-plots before it finally settles down. In fact, the film is a lot like its hero—the 20-something Saga. Carefree at times, impossibly stylish for the most part. But with some really solid moments.
Pet peeve:
Is it too much to ask that a man named Mudaliar at least look the part? And not like a former disco dancer?
Also, Richa Pallod. What’s with the dubbing?
*****
The Yagavarayinum Naa Kaakka Review is a Silverscreen original article. It was not paid for or commissioned by anyone associated with the movie. Silverscreen.in and its writers do not have an advertising relationship with movies that are reviewed on the site.