In her latest film, Minmini, Halitha Shameem poses an intriguing question: How much guilt is too much? The film delves into how individuals cope with guilt and remorse, offering a glimpse into the lives of Praveena (Esther Anil) and Sabari (Pravin Kishore), who each approach sorrow in their own distinct ways.
Praveena and Sabari cross paths as adults while riding their Royal Enfield motorcycles to the Himalayas. Praveena embraces the journey, pausing frequently to savor the sights and experiences along the way, while Sabari remains fixated on reaching the destination, valuing it more than the journey itself. This contrast in their perspectives sets the tone for the film.
Early on, during Sabari’s school years, a teacher asks the class what they aspire to be. While most students offer conventional answers like fashion designer or singer, Sabari and Pari’s responses stand out. Pari, the popular boy, and Sabari, the studious one, initially clash due to their different personalities and interests. However, as the story unfolds, Halitha takes us deep into the minds of these two teenagers.
Minmini is a film of two distinct halves, each with its own tone and atmosphere. The school scenes were shot in 2015, while the adult scenes were filmed more recently. The linear narrative helps maintain the film’s flow, avoiding the potential disorientation of switching between past and present.
Would the film have the same impact if different actors had played the grown-up versions of the characters? Perhaps, but the tonal shift in the second half might have been more pronounced. Halitha subtly integrates the passage of time without drawing attention to the fact that the same actors have grown with their characters over the years. The story unfolds naturally and without fanfare.
The school scenes are lively and energetic, while the adult segments are calming and introspective. Khatija Rahman’s soothing music perfectly complements the tranquil nature of the film. Overall, Minmini is a refreshing addition to Tamil cinema, offering an emotional and human story. Aside from a few forced comedic moments involving a Malayali teacher, the film possesses a uniqueness rarely seen in contemporary cinema.
Minmini tackles the complex theme of survivor guilt, encouraging viewers to pursue their passions and embrace their true selves, all without feeling preachy or overwhelming. The film truly comes into its own in the second half, where the seeds planted in the first half begin to flourish. By the end, both Praveena and Sabari, as well as the audience, feel as though they’ve embarked on a meaningful journey—from a secluded boarding school to the majestic Himalayas.
The performances by Esther Anil, Pravin Kishore, and Gaurav Kalai are compelling, making us genuinely care for their characters. The playful banter between the two lead actors is especially enjoyable, enhanced by their natural on-screen chemistry.
