Nadikar review: A Passable Film Elevated by Tovino Thomas

Jean Paul Lal’s “Nadikar” kicks off with the opulent lifestyle of ‘superstar’ David Padikkal, setting the stage with humor and subtle foreshadowing. Surprisingly, the film maintains a nonchalant demeanor, deviating from expected angst. This casual approach permeates the film’s execution, resulting in a mixed bag of captivating moments and occasional letdowns.

Tovino’s portrayal of David Padikkal is characterized by petulance, yet it’s difficult to harbor contempt; instead, one may find themselves sympathizing with him. Even his womanizing tendencies evoke not anger, but rather a resigned acceptance, with his treatment of one-night stands bordering on respectfulness despite the clichéd theme. The absence of melodramatic monologues is a commendable aspect of the film, enhancing its appeal.

While the overarching theme may not resonate universally due to its focus on celebrity life, certain issues addressed possess inherent human relevance. However, the film’s success in addressing these issues varies; some hit the mark, while others miss their intended impact.

The choice of ending the film with David’s growth is commendable in theory, yet its execution falls short, resulting in a prolonged denouement that diverges from the film’s established pace. Despite this, Balu Varghese delivers a consistent performance, and Suresh Krishna’s role pleasantly surprises. Soubin impresses with his portrayal, particularly in navigating emotionally charged scenes in the second half.

David’s character development unfolds organically, culminating in a well-planned acceptance of help, albeit with occasional lapses in coherence regarding the guidance provided by Soubin’s character. Bhavana’s limited screen time as the wronged ex adds depth to her character, although their dynamic exudes a relatable sense of closure.

The film’s writing suffers from occasional sloppiness, evident in minor discrepancies and instances of artificiality that detract from its natural flow. However, behind-the-scenes elements are adeptly handled, compensating for these shortcomings.

Ultimately, “Nadikar” falls short of masterpiece status but succeeds as an entertainer, buoyed by Tovino’s charismatic presence and moments of genuine engagement.