Small Films, Minimal Impact: My Take on Committee Kurrollu, Aay, 35 Chinna Katha Kadu

I’ve been missing out on a few films recently in theatres that managed to get decent talk. I was waiting for them to hit the streaming platforms so I could finally catch up. Now, I’ve had the chance to watch all three of them, and in my opinion, #Aay definitely gets the upper hand.

Here’s my take on these three films:

1. Committee Kurrollu

The film kicks off with numerous characters, introducing fresh faces amid familiar scenes. While the makers aimed to evoke nostalgic vibes, some elements felt forced, and others were underdeveloped, making it challenging to engage with the story during the first hour. The couple of love tracks particularly went off course. However, the film gains momentum once the caste difference drama begins.

The pre-interval scene leading up to the interval is engaging. Although a tragic incident in this genre is a routine theme, the way the makers utilize it in the latter half proves crucial, and they seem to have handled it well.

The latter half of the film is captivating, especially with the actors delivering strong performances in their mature roles. Despite the multitude of characters, the focus shifts to three main ones, making it easier for the audience to connect.

Rather than merely engaging us with nostalgic moments in the beginning, the way the characters reflect on their past is impressive.

Overall, if we set aside the first hour, the film becomes quite enjoyable and worth watching. Unlike typical climaxes, this time the filmmakers attempt something new with the election results, and the film concludes on a positive note.

Available to Stream: ETV Win

2. Aay

I started with zero expectations, but the film turned out to be a pleasant surprise, coming out with flying colors. It’s such a beautiful film filled with hilarious and spontaneous moments of comedy, and the love story between the lead pair was both intriguing and fresh. Narne Nithin did well as the lead hero, while Nayan Sarika delivered an exceptional performance. Their love story, with a perfect mix of humor and emotions, was thoroughly enjoyable.

Rajkumar Kasi Reddy and Ankith Koyya, who played the hero’s friends, did a terrific job. They almost felt like the main characters of the film, being present throughout, and Rajkumar’s comedic timing was spot-on. His performance was great, but it was director Anji K Maniputhra’s writing that truly shone, highlighting everything with his expertise.

Anji’s clever use of caste differences and friendship, with a twist in the climax, was well executed. That particular scene, without any unnecessary drama, stayed true to the genre and provided a satisfying conclusion.

The background score by Ajaya Arasada was another element that stole my heart, and the songs by Ram Miriyala and Ajaya Arasada were both catchy and soothing. The romantic comedy vibes were perfectly enhanced by the background score, making the film a delightful experience.

I had a feeling that I missed out on it in theatres, but I’m glad I didn’t regret watching it on OTT. It’s been a long time since I felt such positive vibes from a romantic comedy.

Available to Stream: Netflix

3. 35 – Chinna Katha Kadu

The first half of the film was decent, showcasing the lives of a middle-class family and their interactions with children. The school life of a kid was well-portrayed with good scenes, and the emotional aspect hit the right chords. However, as the film progresses, it starts to falter. It feels as though the makers are lecturing on a Math topic rather than focusing on the child’s trauma. A shorter runtime could have improved the film, as there are many unnecessary scenes in between.

Despite this, the performances were quite good, especially in a scene where Nivetha Thomas, playing the mother, defends her child in front of Priyadarshi, who portrays a lecturer visiting their home. The child’s response after passing, showing he is a “mumma’s boy,” highlights how well his emotions are conveyed to his mother.

Both Nivetha Thomas and the children delivered strong performances, but there were some issues with character development, particularly with Priyadarshi’s role as the lecturer and Vishwadev’s character, who plays Nivetha’s husband.

Overall, the film could have been trimmed to remove the dragged-out middle sections. However, its emotional depth and a few compelling scenes leave a positive impression, making it feel like a half-baked rollercoaster ride.

Available to Stream: Aha Video

One thing that was a common point I enjoyed while watching these films was that, despite the outcomes, I am impressed with the boldness of the makers. They are ready to go ahead with fresh faces if they feel the concept is strong, and these three films serve as prime examples.