Tharunam: A Romantic Thriller with Promise but Uneven Execution
“Tharunam,” directed by Arvindh Srinivasan, is a Tamil romantic thriller that delves into themes of love, morality, and the consequences of one’s actions. The film stars Kishen Das as Arjun, a suspended CRPF officer, and Smruthi Venkat as Meera, a young woman entangled in a perilous situation. Their chance meeting at a wedding blossoms into romance, but their lives take a dark turn when Meera accidentally kills her obsessive neighbor, Rohit (Raj Ayyappa), leading the couple into a tense cover-up to secure their future.
Kishen Das delivers a stoic performance as Arjun, embodying a man trained in covert operations yet caught in a moral quandary. Smruthi Venkat portrays Meera with a blend of vulnerability and strength, though her character’s development stalls post-crisis, leaving her in a state of perpetual shock. Their on-screen chemistry is present but lacks depth, which affects the audience’s investment in their plight.
Arvindh Srinivasan’s direction maintains a focused narrative, avoiding unnecessary subplots and contrived investigations. However, the film’s measured approach sometimes renders the thriller aspects toothless, with a curious lack of tension in situations that should be nail-biting. The first half’s pacing feels almost glacial, which may test viewers’ patience.
Darbuka Siva’s musical score complements the film’s tone, providing an emotional backdrop to the unfolding drama. The cinematography captures the essence of the settings, enhancing the visual storytelling. Despite these strengths, the film’s technical prowess is overshadowed by its storytelling shortcomings.
“Tharunam” strives to be a compelling romantic thriller but is hindered by its predictable storyline and uneven execution. While the performances and musical score offer redeeming qualities, the film ultimately falls short of delivering a memorable cinematic experience.
News Credits: Indiaglitz
