Aviyal

My review: Aviyal

The second installment of Bench Talkies christened as "Aviyal" is an anthology of four short films, all of the genre " black comedy".

1) "Shruthi Bedam"

This is the most likeable of the four short films. An unlikeliest of romantic comedy which could have been explored only in the realms of short film world is a story that has a niece swooning over his aunt (chithi). Movie is a standout for the casualness of the making  and the performances. All the actors in the movie have done terrific jobs. Though the premise gives scope for lots of controversy, the manner in which the maker of this movie Mohit Mehra has gone about things in a sensitive manner is applaud worthy.

2) "Kalam"

This is the second on of the anthology which is more of an extended action sequence than a short film. The twists and turns don't create the kind of impact it ought to have. Acting is above par but the screenplay could have been a better with a more rounded story. However, the background score and cinematography of this movie is top notch.

3) "Kanneer Anjali"

This is the weakest of all the four movies. It tries to do a lot of things in half and hour and in the end doesn't do justice for anything. The comedy is unfunny, the thriller aspect is not engaging enough, the horror element is funny and the overall impact goes for a toss. 

4) "Eli"

This is by far the best of the four movies. Made by now famous Alphonse Putheran eons ago, "Eli" still appears fresh. The narrative is typically neo noir with a teasing screenplay and a bang ending. It boasts of big names like Bobby Simha and Nivin Pauly and is the star attraction of "Aviyal". On the whole,  "Aviyal" starts with a superb "Shruthi Bedam" and ends with  a terrific "Eli" traversing the mediocrity of the other two.