Thekku Vadakku (2024) Review: A Battle of Egos,  Malayalam Cinema’s Latest Comedy Drama

Malayalam cinema has long been celebrated for its unique ability to blend sharp social commentary with humor, delivering stories that resonate with everyday life. Thekku Vadakku (2024) is no different, offering a satirical tale set in a small village. Directed by Prem Shankar, this comedy-drama stars industry stalwarts Vinayakan and Suraj Venjaramoodu, and while it delivers moments of humor, the film also explores deeper themes of ego, pride, and the absurdity of human conflict.

Plot Summary: A Clash of Egos in Rural Kerala

Set in a quaint village, Thekku Vadakku introduces us to Madhavan (Vinayakan), a retired KSEB engineer, and Shankunni (Suraj Venjaramoodu), a rice mill owner. From the very beginning, these two characters engage in petty, ego-driven feuds that quickly spiral out of control. Their rivalry starts over trivial matters, but as time progresses, their one-upmanship escalates into absurdity, drawing the entire village into their feud. The title itself, translating to “South-North,” hints at the stark contrast between their personalities and the divisive nature of their competition.

What starts as harmless rivalry soon becomes the talk of the town, and the film uses this scenario to explore the nuances of rural life. Madhavan, once a respected engineer, now clings to his past glories, while Shankunni, a successful businessman, basks in his village’s recognition. Both men seek validation and respect, but their desire for dominance creates rifts, not just between themselves, but within the village itself.

A Deep Dive into Character Dynamics: Ego as the Driving Force

The real brilliance of Thekku Vadakku lies in its characterization and how it reflects real-life human tendencies. Madhavan and Shankunni are more than just two men at odds they represent the universal craving for validation that can drive people to extremes. The film cleverly explores how ego can consume people’s lives, turning even the most trivial incidents into monumental battles. The rivalry, portrayed with biting satire, becomes a mirror to the audience, showcasing the absurdity of such ego-fueled conflicts.

This theme of ego, pride, and status is handled with a mix of humor and pathos. Director Prem Shankar ensures that while the audience laughs at the characters’ antics, there’s an underlying sadness to their desperation for validation. As we watch Madhavan and Shankunni engage in increasingly ridiculous standoffs, we are forced to question our own need for recognition and whether it’s truly worth the cost.

Performances: Vinayakan and Suraj Steal the Show

At the heart of Thekku Vadakku are the powerful performances of Vinayakan and Suraj Venjaramoodu. Vinayakan, known for his intense roles, brings a nuanced performance that perfectly balances arrogance and vulnerability. His portrayal of Madhavan, a man who cannot let go of his past, is both comedic and deeply touching. Despite his pride, we see glimpses of a man struggling to maintain relevance in a world that’s moved on from him.

On the other hand, Suraj Venjaramoodu delivers a more grounded, yet equally compelling performance as Shankunni. His ability to convey a range of emotions sometimes with nothing more than a subtle expression elevates the film’s satirical tone. Shankunni’s obsession with outdoing Madhavan, despite his relatively simple lifestyle, speaks to the universal theme of wanting to “win” at life, even if no one is keeping score.

Together, the chemistry between Vinayakan and Suraj creates some of the film’s most memorable moments. Their interactions, filled with sharp wit and comic timing, form the backbone of the story. It’s their rivalry that drives the narrative, but it’s their performances that make Thekku Vadakku a standout.

Supporting actors like Vineeth Vishwam, Merin Jose Pottackal, and Kottayam Ramesh add further depth to the village setting, portraying colorful characters that feel authentic and lived-in. These characters, while not central to the main feud, help paint a picture of a tight-knit community, where everyone is involved in everyone else’s business.

Direction and Cinematography: A Balance of Humor and Reflection

Prem Shankar’s direction shines in how he captures the rural setting with a keen eye for detail. The film oscillates between lighthearted humor and moments of quiet reflection, often allowing the audience to digest the absurdity of the feud. Shankar doesn’t shy away from letting the camera linger on the serene beauty of the village, contrasting the simplicity of the environment with the complexity of the emotions at play.

Cinematographer Shameer Khan does an excellent job of using the natural beauty of Kerala to its advantage. Wide shots of the village’s fields, bustling markets, and quiet streets immerse the audience in the rural setting. The contrast between the peaceful backdrop and the chaotic rivalry adds to the film’s satirical edge, highlighting how even in the calmest of places, human emotions can create storms.

Music and Technical Aspects: A Complementary Soundtrack

Sam CS’s soundtrack provides the perfect backdrop to the film’s shifting tones. The music transitions from playful to contemplative, reflecting the evolving dynamics between Madhavan and Shankunni. The subtle background score enhances key moments without ever overwhelming the narrative, allowing the audience to focus on the characters and their interactions.

Technically, the film is solid. The editing keeps the pace brisk, ensuring that the story never lags despite its relatively simple plot. Dialogues, penned by S. Hareesh, are sharp and witty, laced with satire that cuts deep into the characters’ egos. The balance between humor and social commentary is handled with finesse, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Audience Reception: Mixed Reactions to the Slow Burn

While Thekku Vadakku offers a unique satirical take on ego-driven conflicts, it may not appeal to everyone. Viewers looking for high-octane drama or fast-paced action will likely find the film’s slow-burn storytelling a bit frustrating. The film takes its time to build the rivalry between Madhavan and Shankunni, and for some, this deliberate pacing can test their patience.

Critics have also been divided. While the performances of Vinayakan and Suraj Venjaramoodu have been universally praised, some have noted that the film drags in certain parts, particularly in the first half. On platforms like NETTV4U, the film has received an average rating of 2.25/5, with critiques pointing to its slow pacing and lack of depth in some subplots. However, for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and intelligent humor, Thekku Vadakku is a rewarding experience.

Final Verdict: A Satirical Gem with Strong Performances

In conclusion, Thekku Vadakku is a film that thrives on its sharp satire and powerful performances. The clash of egos between Madhavan and Shankunni offers both humor and a thoughtful commentary on human nature. While the film may not be a box-office blockbuster, it’s a must-watch for anyone who enjoys slow-burn comedies with a message.

If you’re a fan of Malayalam cinema’s unique blend of humor and social commentary, Thekku Vadakku will not disappoint. However, for those seeking fast-paced action or more traditional dramatic fare, this film might feel like a slower, less satisfying journey. Ultimately, it’s a story that reminds us of the absurd lengths people will go to protect their pride, even in the quietest corners of the world.

Rating 3 / 5