Maayanadhi review: Message-oriented serious drama

Maayanadhi script had the potential to become another 'Kaadhal' but the treatment and presentation is outdated

Debutant director Ashok Thiagarajan has tried to narrate a socially relevant topic about how adolescent school-going girls lose their life by falling in love and that too with the wrong guy and spoiling their future. One positive thing about the film is despite the caste angle, there are no villains or unnecessary duets. He has tried his best to treat the plot in a realistic manner especially in the second half.

Anbarasan (Aadukalam Naren) is a widower, his world revolves around his only daughter Kausalya (Venba). Anbarasan who is  practical and caring dad openly discusses the so-called taboo topics with his daughter so that she doesn't go on the wrong path, and he trusts her completely. Kausalya is also a rank holder and her dream is to become a doctor one day, but she develops a soft corner for an auto driver Senthil (Abi Saravanan).

While Kausalya wants to complete her studies, Senthil who is a school drop-out is insecure and asks her to marry him first. Will the daughter lives up to her dad's expectations? or choose love over family?

The script has the potential to become another 'Kaadhal' but the treatment and presentation in a preachy manner is outdated. The director has presented the film like a TV serial which spoils the fun. Naren as the doting dad is excellent while Venba's performance is largely satisfying. New boy Abhi Saravanan is promising with a likable face and expressions. Appukutty, as Mani, the hero's friend, does justice to his character.

Bhavatharani's songs and background score are good while cinematography and editing are strictly functional. To conclude, if you are a fan of message-oriented serious drama, 'Maayanadhi' is sure to please you.