‘Vaazhai’ Film Review: Mari Selvaraj’s Most Heartfelt and Impactful Story to Date

The audience burst into laughter each time Sivanaindhan and Sekar’s playful antics unfolded on the screen.

Sometimes, you eagerly anticipate a film’s release, only to find yourself feeling emotionally detached once it finally arrives. Yet, as the climax unfolds, you wish to capture every visual and thought, holding onto them for as long as possible. Director Mari Selvaraj, known for his ability to captivate audiences with deeply personal and moving narratives, draws from his own experiences in “Vaazhai.” This film is so heartfelt that it tugs at your heartstrings while simultaneously uprooting them.

In the opening fifteen minutes of “Vaazhai,” Mari Selvaraj establishes the tone for the story ahead. An elderly man passes away in the village of Puliyankulam, prompting the community to gather for his funeral. That morning, Sivanaindhan (Ponvel) is awakened by his sister Vembu (Dhivya Duraisamy). When he complains, she reminds him that they won’t need to carry banana stalks since they have a funeral to attend. Later, in a moment of innocence, Sivanaindhan tells his friend, “Naalikum yaarachu setha nalla irukum (It would be nice if someone dies tomorrow as well).”

Sivanaindhan is oblivious to the weight of his words and the implications behind them. The film mirrors his innocence as he and his best friend Sekar (Raghul) navigate their school days, debating whether Rajinikanth or Kamal Haasan is the bigger star. When they’re not caught up in their fan feuds, they find themselves admiring their teacher Poongodi (Nikhila Vimal). If Jo (Anandhi) was the pivotal character in “Pariyerum Perumal,” then…

Mari and cinematographer Theni Eswar express their ideas through a visual style that is both intense and deeply moving. One powerful image shows Sivanaindhan running for miles, haunted by the trauma he has faced, the pain left by the ghosts of his past, and the scars he will carry for a lifetime.

The banana plant is well-known for its wide-ranging usefulness, from its stem to its leaves. Yet, when one plant dies after producing fruit, its offshoots continue to flourish—a symbol of wealth and abundance. “Vaazhai” captures the poignant irony that those who are underprivileged are often condemned to suffer exploitation and trauma, even from something that represents prosperity.

Director: Mari Selvaraj

Cast: Ponvel M, Raghul R, Kalaiyarasan, Nikhila Vimal, J Sathish Kumar, Dhivya Duraisamy, Janaki