'Sangu Chakkaram' : A humour-horror ride that will impress kids
A great time has passed since Tamil Cinema's much adored 'My Dear Kuttichathan' made the younger generation of its time giggle and entertained. Though numerous films have been made for and on children, there was a sense of dearth and lacking, (and yearning) for an outright entertainer that would relate to the kids. ‘Sangu Chakkaram’ might be the answer to this dilemma, but is the answer solid enough?
The premise is set surrounding a decaying and isolated building inhabited by two spectres, a mother and a child. The setting might be a horror trope that Tamil films hesitate to part with, but we’re talking about a movie which has its primary goal of impressing our younger audiences. As playful as kids are, an ensemble of seven end up entering the haunted building. Another two wind up separately, followed by adults who have their own ulterior and evil motives. How the situation progresses with the ghosts and the surrounding events forms the story of 'Sangu Chakkaram'.
Kudos to director Maarison as he has come out with a well paced screenplay punctuated with bone-tickling humour throughout the movie. The symbolic paradox of having more play of light in the film is a contrast to audiences who might have been bored with the usual association of horror and darkness. It is also enjoyable when the ghosts get flabbergasted when the little ones barrage with their own quirky questions. It is also worth mentioning here that the director has been mindful of incorporating social satire into a film that mainly caters to kids. Jabs at being money-minded, private schools, not to mention the larger question of Rajinikanth's political entry make their way as easily into the film.
Dhilip Subbarayan has given a commendable performance with humorous emoting aided by his body language. No surprise if the stunt master gets more roles to play authentic characters in upcoming films. Another impressive performance comes in the form of child artist Nishesh who aces his character, especially when he asks simple questions with philosophical underpinnings that adults might consider rather difficult to answer.
Moreover, the spectres Geetha (mother) and Malar(daughter) shine with no dents in their fluid performances. Shabir's background score is justified and greatly helps with the flow of the film as well. Lensman Ravi Kannan, CG employed during ghost scenes and some startling set designs by Jayachandran deserve special commendations.
Verdict: Though there are a few logical overrides in the movie, they can be discounted as ‘Sangu Chakkaram’ poses itself as a wonderful pastime for our little friends.
