Charukesi - Back to the present

Charukesi

Tamil, 2026

Genre: Drama

Director: Suresh Krissna

Stars: Y. G. Mahendran, Suhasini Maniratnam, Raj Ayyappa, Ramya Pandian,  Sathyaraj, Samuthirakani, Thalaivasal Vijay

Mohan's Measure ⭐⭐

A movie starring Y. G. Mahendran instantly reminds us of the 1980s. Although set in the present day, this film could have stepped out of that time, as it hearkens to the tragic tales set around faith and tradition directed by the legendary K. Viswanath. 

Those old enough to remember the great director's films will quickly recall the pathos of their plot - a complex lead character zealously safeguarding a time-honored craft in a world which has sadly but inevitably  turned away from it. Before the maestro meets his tragic end, a few good people find themselves drawn to in, and eventually they take the reins. Magical, romantic, these films could,  and have,  been watched repeatedly through the decades, a fitting tribute to the accolades they received.

Which is what makes Charukesi so disappointing. All the characters are there, as too a workable plot. But what results... well... it's like craving Ferero chocolate and eating Almond Joy. The movie is a hollowed out interpretation of Viswanath's films, focusing more on caricature than character. 

Y.G.Sir plays an elderly Carnatic musician who, over the years, has gained popularity and respect, both for his art and his noble demeanor. He has a loving wife who supports him and a man who is more friend than employee to him. But, as is the stuff of this genre, his son, for reasons not quite ever revealed, hates him, to the point he becomes the anti-thesis of him. The plot tests the limits as the young man brings home a bride who also holds a grudge against the noble musician. 

Had this been a Vishwanath film, a well meaning outsider would come in to heal the dysfunctionality. Instead, Director Palani turns to Divine Intervention. But don't expect Karappu or Kantara. Mr. Satyaraj portrays a beach wanderer who bears an uncanny resemblance to the Son of a Jewish carpenter we all know. This leads to a miraculously powerful conclusion. Overall, however, we are left with footprints in the sand.