Kottukkaali Review

Kottukkaali is a film that breaks away from the usual cliche of Tamil cinema, offering a fresh and thought-provoking experience. Directed by Vinoth, the movie features Soori, Anna Ben delivering subtle yet powerful performances that resonate deeply with the audience. The director’s bold decision to forgo the use of music, no songs, no background score, plays a significant role in shaping the film’s unique atmosphere. Instead, the natural sounds of birds, animals and the environment draw viewers into the setting, making it feel as though we have stepped right onto the screen.

The film’s plot is simple but approached with a distinctive style that sets it apart. There are fewer dialogues, but the visuals speak volumes, conveying the message more effectively than words ever could. The humor woven throughout the story also works well, providing relief without detracting from the film’s serious message. It’s a sensitive story handled with remarkable ease. Rather than resorting to melodrama, Kottukkaali avoids making the audience cry or feel overtly emotional. Instead, it subtly forces us to confront the cruelty that exists within us, making us understand our own complicity in societal issues.

One of the film’s strongest aspects is its open-ended conclusion. Vinoth doesn’t spoon-feed a solution to the audience, instead he leaves the narrative unresolved, inviting viewers to engage in their own thought process. This approach encourages us to think, analyze, and perhaps even change ourselves. 

However, despite these strengths, Kottukkaali occasionally feels more like a short film. The minimalistic approach, while refreshing, sometimes leads to a sense of incompleteness. For those unfamiliar with Vinoth’s style, I recommend watching Pebbles (Koozhangal) first. It provides valuable context for understanding his approach to storytelling and his unique cinematic voice.

This film is a refreshing departure from conventional cinema, a film that could have easily gone wrong if not handled with precision. Yet, Vinoth navigates the sensitive topic with perfection, delivering a story that is both impactful and introspective. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, urging you to reflect on the ideas it presents.

Rating: 7.5/10⭐️