The Smile Man(2024)

“The Smile Man” is a Tamil crime thriller released on December 27, 2024, directed by the duo Syam and Praveen. The film marks R. Sarathkumar’s 150th appearance and delves into the psyche of a retired police officer grappling with Alzheimer’s disease while confronting a resurfacing serial killer case.

Plot Overview

The narrative centers on Chidambaram Nedumaran (R. Sarathkumar), a former police officer diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Years after an unresolved case involving a serial killer known for carving smiles into victims’ faces, Chidambaram is drawn back into the investigation as similar murders emerge. Despite his deteriorating memory, he collaborates with Aravind (Sri Kumar), the son of his missing colleague, to unearth the truth behind the killings.

Cast and Performances

• R. Sarathkumar as Chidambaram Nedumaran: Sarathkumar delivers a nuanced portrayal of a man battling cognitive decline while confronting past demons. His depiction of vulnerability intertwined with determination stands out, though some critics feel the screenplay doesn’t fully leverage his capabilities.
• Sri Kumar as Aravind: Portraying the son of Chidambaram’s former colleague, Sri Kumar brings earnestness to his role, aiding the investigation amidst personal stakes.
• Sija Rose as Keerthana: In the role of a supportive ally in the investigation, Sija Rose offers a competent performance, though her character could benefit from deeper development.
• Iniya as Chithra: Iniya’s portrayal adds emotional depth to the narrative, representing the personal facets intertwined with the central investigation.
• Supporting Cast: The film also features performances by George Maryan, Rajkumar, and Suresh Chandra Menon, each contributing to the storyline’s progression.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Directors Syam and Praveen attempt to weave a complex narrative that intertwines crime investigation with the protagonist’s battle against Alzheimer’s. However, the execution has been critiqued for its straightforward approach, lacking the suspense and intricacy typical of compelling thrillers.

The cinematography by Vikram Mohan captures the somber and tense atmosphere appropriate for the genre, while Gavaskar Avinash’s musical score complements the film’s mood. Editing by San Lokesh ensures a coherent flow, though some pacing issues persist.

Critical Reception

The film has garnered mixed reviews. The Times of India describes it as “yet another run-of-the-mill serial killer story,” noting its average execution. Cinema Express echoes this sentiment, stating that “even Sarathkumar can’t salvage this insipid thriller,” pointing to a lack of engaging narrative elements.

Conclusion

“The Smile Man” endeavors to present a layered crime thriller with a unique protagonist at its core. While R. Sarathkumar’s performance adds gravitas, the film falls short in delivering a gripping and emotionally resonant experience, resulting in a narrative that may not fully captivate its audience.