Star Rating: 2.5/5
Cast: R. Sarathkumar ,Sija Rose as Keerthana,Iniya as Chithra,Suresh Chandra Menon
Director: Syam Praveen
Streaming On: Aha Tamil (post-theatrical release)
Language: Tamil
Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes
What’s It About The Smile Man Movie Review?
The film follows Chidambaram Nedumaaran, a seasoned police officer diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Facing imminent memory loss, he becomes determined to crack the unresolved ‘Smile Man’ serial killer case. As he delves deeper, Chidambaram confronts both the elusive murderer and the challenges posed by his deteriorating condition.
What Works?
Sarathkumar delivers a commendable performance, portraying Chidambaram’s vulnerability and determination with authenticity. The film’s premise—an officer racing against time and his own mind—is intriguing and offers a fresh perspective within the crime thriller genre. The cinematography by Vikram Mohan effectively captures the tense atmosphere, and Gavaskar Avinash’s background score complements the film’s mood.
What Doesn’t Work?
Despite its promising premise, the film struggles with a sluggish screenplay that hampers the narrative’s momentum. Critics have noted that the story feels like a missed opportunity, lacking the depth and engagement expected from a serial killer thriller. The supporting characters, while competent, do not leave a lasting impact, and certain plot developments are predictable, diminishing the suspense.
Star Performances:
- R. Sarathkumar: As Chidambaram, Sarathkumar embodies the role of a determined yet vulnerable officer, showcasing his acting prowess in this milestone film.
- Sija Rose: Portraying Keerthana, she brings a subtle strength to her role as a CBCID officer, though her character could have been further developed.
- Iniya: As Chithra, she delivers a heartfelt performance, adding emotional depth to the narrative.
Fashion in The Smile Man
In The Smile Man, the wardrobe plays a subtle yet impactful role in reflecting the characters’ psychological states and the film’s dark tone. The protagonist’s attire evolves throughout the film, starting with a neat and polished look that mirrors his outward facade of control and success. As the plot thickens and his obsession deepens, his clothing becomes increasingly disheveled, symbolizing his unraveling mental state.
Supporting characters, such as the manipulative therapist, are styled in professional yet muted tones, underscoring their sinister and enigmatic personalities. The use of dim lighting and minimalist costumes complements the movie’s eerie atmosphere, ensuring the focus remains on the characters’ intense emotional journeys rather than elaborate visual distractions. The fashion choices in the film serve to enhance the psychological depth and unsettling narrative, aligning perfectly with the movie’s grim aesthetic.
Read More : Panchayat Season 3 Review: Jitendra Kumar and Faisal Malik Crafted Village Drama
Kota Factory Season 3 Review: Jitendra Kumar’s Jeetu Bhaiya Steals the Show
Final Verdict:
The Smile Man” introduces an intriguing concept with a seasoned lead actor, but falls short in execution. While Sarathkumar’s performance is noteworthy, the film’s pacing and lack of narrative depth prevent it from standing out in the crowded genre of crime thrillers. It’s a watchable film for fans of the genre, but it may not leave a lasting impression.
