hridayam- a movie that lingers in your heart till the next day

 

As the title goes it is indeed a huge achievement, nowadays, if a movie does linger on for more than 24 hours! 

Two young men, sons of two legends, have made this movie worthwhile ( in fact every actor in the film has donned the role beautifully). Hridayam is a feel good film a tad longer than usual with plenty of twists.. It is a movie where you can take breaks and get back with enthusiasm and curiosity. It is not a film that has to be rushed into watching in one go. Savour the scenes. Thanks to OTT!!

The movie is a simple reflection of a slice of life. Now if life isn't magical then what is. The film has captured the ethos of a Malayalee student in Chennai. The teachers/profs not being mocked; the subtle dialogues without bringing in hostility between Tamilians and Malayalees; the mix of students; hostel scenes; engineering students finding their own off beaten paths; the bond of friendship; the bullies; crush and infatuations; life after college, weddings of classmates- the young director +writer has packed it all with a punch. 

The actors, even for the minutest role, have been chosen with care. Kalyani Priyadarshan is evolving. 

Darshana, who goes by the same name in the film, has rocked it. She reminded me of Alia Bhat- the vibrance in her acting! Hope we see more of her. The plethora of emotions, the thoughts in her head- how beautifully the director has showcased that it is normal to have many thoughts and we have the power of choice.. no melodrama here. a subtle yet powerful lesson. 

The clear winner is Pranav the hero who goes by the name Arun Neelakandan (Mohanlal fans will know the choice of the surname😀). He reminded me of the baby banana plant evolving from the parent plant yet finding its own ground- connected, rooted and separate. Having been disappointed with the father's recent botox face -the face that could emote is now stuck- I was thrilled that I have found an actor I can relate to.

Pranav obviously reminds us of his legendary father but the buck stops here. He is evolving his own range and style. What better treat for Mohanlal fans. He has his dad's eyes, traces of the famous voice and bottomless well of talent.. It would be exciting to see him different roles in the future. Vineeth Srinivasan has tapped his potential well. 

Pranav is here to stay (fingers crossed).