“Selfie” is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language action thriller directed by debutant Mathi Maran. The film features G. V. Prakash Kumar and Gautham Vasudev Menon in pivotal roles, with Varsha Bollamma, Vidya Pradeep, and Vagai Chandrasekhar in supporting capacities. Released on April 1, 2022, the movie delves into the clandestine world of college admission scams, offering a gritty portrayal of the lengths individuals will go to secure educational opportunities.
Plot Overview
The narrative centers on Kanal (G. V. Prakash Kumar), a hot-headed engineering student coerced into pursuing a degree he has little interest in, primarily due to his father’s insistence. Resentful of his father’s authoritarianism, Kanal discovers that his admission was secured through a hefty donation facilitated by an admissions broker. This revelation piques his curiosity about the underground network of college admissions in Chennai.
Alongside his friends, Kanal ventures into this illicit industry, initially to assist a relative seeking a medical college seat. However, when their client retracts and demands a refund, tensions escalate. The situation spirals further when they cross paths with Ravi Varma (Gautham Vasudev Menon), a formidable figure in the admissions racket. As events unfold, Kanal and his friends find themselves ensnared in a web of deceit, danger, and moral dilemmas, leading to life-altering consequences.
Cast and Performances
- G. V. Prakash Kumar as Kanal: Prakash delivers a compelling performance, effectively capturing Kanal’s transformation from a disillusioned student to an active participant in the admissions underworld. His portrayal balances youthful impulsiveness with moments of introspection, rendering the character both relatable and complex.
- Gautham Vasudev Menon as Ravi Varma: Menon embodies the suave yet menacing broker with finesse. His nuanced performance adds depth to the antagonist role, presenting Ravi Varma as a multifaceted character driven by ambition and control.
- Varsha Bollamma as Madhavi: Bollamma portrays Madhavi, adding a layer of emotional depth to the narrative. Her interactions with Kanal provide insight into his personal struggles and aspirations.
- Vidya Pradeep as Mona: Pradeep delivers a noteworthy performance, contributing significantly to the film’s tension and drama.
- Vagai Chandrasekhar as Kanal’s Father: Chandrasekhar effectively depicts the authoritarian patriarch, whose actions inadvertently propel Kanal into the murky world of admission scams.
Direction and Screenplay
Mathi Maran, in his directorial debut, presents a well-crafted narrative that sheds light on the pervasive issue of educational corruption. The screenplay is taut, maintaining a steady pace that keeps the audience engaged. Maran’s background as an associate of acclaimed director Vetrimaaran is evident in his storytelling approach, emphasizing realism and character-driven plots.
Cinematography and Music
Vishnu Rangasamy’s cinematography complements the film’s gritty tone, utilizing a palette that reflects the stark realities of the characters’ lives. The visual composition enhances the narrative’s tension, particularly in scenes depicting the clandestine operations of the admissions racket.
G. V. Prakash Kumar, doubling as the film’s music composer, delivers a soundtrack that aligns seamlessly with the movie’s themes. The background score accentuates the suspense, while songs like “Oorkaran” and “Imaikkariye” resonate with the film’s emotional beats.
Critical Reception
“IMDb Rating” garnered generally positive reviews from critics. Sruthi Raman of The Times of India rated the film 3 out of 5 stars, noting its gripping exploration of college admission scams but mentioning a rushed climax. Bhuvanesh Chandar of Cinema Express awarded it 3.5 out of 5 stars, praising the writing and character development. Bharathy Singaravel of The News Minute also gave it 3 out of 5 stars, commending it as a laudable debut for Mathi Maran. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.1 out of 10, based on user reviews.
Budget and Box Office Performance
While specific budget figures have not been publicly disclosed, “Selfie” was produced by DG Film Company and distributed by V Creations. The film’s realistic portrayal of a pertinent issue, coupled with strong performances, contributed to its positive reception. The movie was later made available for streaming on Aha, expanding its audience reach.
Conclusion
“Selfie” stands as a commendable entry in Tamil cinema, tackling the intricate and often overlooked issue of college admission scams. Mathi Maran’s direction, combined with compelling performances from the cast, offers a thought-provoking narrative that resonates with audiences. The film’s blend of action and social commentary provides both entertainment and insight, making it a noteworthy watch for those interested in socially relevant thrillers.