**A Departure from Traditional Narratives**
In the realm of storytelling, films often fall into the categories of plot-driven or character-driven narratives. However, "Kuiko" defies such classification, presenting itself as a unique blend of neither. Instead, it embraces the essence of a slice-of-life dramedy, where the narrative unfolds organically against the backdrop of everyday life.
**An Unassuming Beginning**
As the film unfolds, we witness Thangaraj (portrayed by Vidaarth) experiencing a mundane yet significant event—losing his job as a teacher. However, the film refrains from embellishing this moment with unnecessary drama, opting for a matter-of-fact portrayal. Following a casual conversation with his neighbor, Thangaraj sets his sights on catching a live IPL match at Chepauk Stadium. Yet, to fulfill this desire, he requires funds, leading him to seek assistance from his uncle, Panbazhagan (played by Muthukumar), a benevolent money lender.
**A Journey Unfolds**
Unexpectedly, Thangaraj finds himself entangled in a new responsibility—to transport an icebox to a remote hillside village, where an elderly woman has recently passed away. He must await the return of the deceased woman's son, Malayappan (portrayed by Yogi Babu), who is employed as a caretaker of camels in Saudi Arabia.
**Immersed in Realism**
Director Arul Chezhian, known for his work on "Aandavan Kattalai," eschews conventional storytelling conventions, immersing the audience in a world populated by ordinary individuals with simple aspirations. This approach bears semblance to contemporary Malayalam cinema trends, yet "Kuiko" manages to carve its own unique path.
**A Tapestry of Delightful Moments**
Despite its lack of a traditional storyline, "Kuiko" offers numerous delights for its audience. Quirky characters, subtle humor that evokes genuine smiles, and performances imbued with authenticity contribute to the film's charm. Notably, a romantic song set to a Tamil rendition of the title track from "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" adds to the film's nostalgic appeal.
**Character-Centric Narration**
Both Vidaarth and Yogi Babu seamlessly blend into the fabric of the film's universe, portraying characters rather than conventional protagonists. Supporting actors like Ilavarasu also shine in their roles, further enriching the narrative tapestry. While the absence of a linear storyline may raise questions about the film's direction in later stages, the compelling nature of its characters ensures continued engagement until the end.
5.7