Idli Kadai - Review

Dhanush’s latest directorial venture, Idli Kadai, marks his fourth outing as a director following the success of Power Paandi, Raayan, and Nilavukku Enmel Ennadi Kobam. In this film, Dhanush also stars and co-produces alongside Akash Baskaran, delivering a heartfelt family drama. The ensemble cast includes Rajkiran, Nithya Menen, Arun Vijay, Shalini Pandey, Parthiban, Samuthirakani, Ilavarasu, and Sathyaraj. With Kiran Kaushik’s cinematography, G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music, Jackie’s art direction, and G.K. Prasanna’s editing, the film boasts a strong technical team.

Set in a picturesque village near Theni, the story revolves around ‘Sivanesan Idli Kadai,’ a small eatery run by Rajkiran, which serves as the village’s heartbeat. Rajkiran’s character finds joy not in profits but in the smiles of his customers, meticulously preparing idlis with love. Dhanush, playing his son Murugan, grows up cherishing his father’s passion for the idli shop. After completing a catering course, Murugan moves to Chennai and later to Bangkok, where he works under a wealthy businessman, Sathyaraj.

Sathyaraj’s daughter, Shalini Pandey, falls in love with Murugan, and their wedding is set to take place in ten days. However, when news of Rajkiran’s sudden demise reaches Murugan, he rushes back to his village. After performing his father’s last rites, tragedy strikes again as his mother, Geetha Kailasam, also passes away, leaving Murugan devastated. Nithya Menen, as his childhood friend and neighbor, becomes his pillar of support.

As the wedding date approaches, Shalini urges Murugan to return to Bangkok, but he chooses to stay in his village, tied to his parents’ memories and the idli shop. This decision angers Shalini’s brother, Arun Vijay, who arrives in the village seeking retribution. The rest of the story unfolds with emotional twists, exploring themes of love, loss, and rootedness.

Dhanush shines as Murugan, effortlessly embodying the character’s rural simplicity, urban aspirations, and emotional depth. His portrayal in the grief-stricken scenes is heart-wrenching, while his action sequences are equally compelling. Nithya Menen delivers a grounded, endearing performance as the supportive friend, and her chemistry with Dhanush is a highlight.

Arun Vijay, though effective, is underutilized in a role that could have been more nuanced. Rajkiran’s limited screen time leaves a lasting impact, with his character anchoring the narrative. However, the roles of Sathyaraj, Parthiban, and Samuthirakani feel underdeveloped, making their presence less impactful.

G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music is a standout, with soulful songs and a stirring background score elevating the film’s emotional quotient. Kiran Kaushik’s cinematography beautifully captures the rustic charm of the village and the intensity of action sequences, particularly the night scenes. G.K. Prasanna’s editing keeps the narrative crisp, though the second half could have been tighter.

Dhanush’s direction is the film’s heart, weaving a nostalgic tale that celebrates family bonds and one’s connection to their roots. The first half immerses viewers in the village’s warmth, with well-etched characters and emotional highs. The second half, while slightly slower, culminates in a satisfying climax. The film’s message—never forget your parents or your roots—resonates deeply, delivered without preachiness.

Free of excessive violence or vulgarity, Idli Kadai is a wholesome family entertainer that strikes an emotional chord. While it doesn’t reach the heights of Dhanush’s best works, it’s a sincere effort that leaves you with a lump in your throat.

Idli Kadai is a warm, emotional drama powered by Dhanush’s multifaceted performance, G.V. Prakash’s music, and evocative visuals. Despite a slightly uneven second half, it’s a film that families can enjoy together, reminding us to cherish our roots.

Step into Idli Kadai for a heartfelt cinematic experience!