Plot Overview
Sarathkumar’s 150th film, The Smile Man, revolves around Chidambaram, a brooding CBCID officer battling Alzheimer’s disease while on a mission to hunt down a serial killer known for carving smiling faces on his victims. The film begins on an intriguing note with an epilogue showing Chidambaram nearly losing his life to the killer, who vows to return if Chidambaram continues as a cop. Despite being officially declared dead, the serial killer resurfaces, reigniting a trail of gruesome murders. Chidambaram, despite his deteriorating health, re-enters the fray to put an end to the killer’s reign.
Strengths
- Strong Premise
The film’s concept of intertwining Alzheimer’s disease with a serial killer hunt provides a unique canvas. The initial setup and the character dynamics between Chidambaram and the killer are engaging. - Sarathkumar’s Performance
As a seasoned actor, Sarathkumar portrays the moody, conflicted officer with finesse, showcasing vulnerability and determination despite his character’s struggles.
Flaws
- Cliched Narrative
The screenplay falls into the trap of overused tropes—redundant flashbacks, predictable twists, and forced emotional subplots. The flashbacks, especially, disrupt the pacing, with both the protagonist and antagonist receiving backstories that fail to evoke empathy or depth. - Poor Characterization
The killer’s psychological profile lacks consistency. The portrayal alternates between a ruthless psychopath and a victim of circumstances, leaving the audience confused about the intent behind his actions. - Misuse of Alzheimer’s Disease
The depiction of Alzheimer’s mirrors the superficial representation seen in films like Ghajini, reducing a critical health condition to a convenient plot device rather than exploring its nuances authentically. - Inefficient Writing
The film attempts to juggle multiple themes—betrayal, redemption, psychological trauma, and a police procedural. However, the chaotic writing undermines the narrative, failing to tie these elements cohesively.
Direction & Execution
Syam-Praveen tries to replicate the tension and depth of successful thrillers like Por Thozhil. However, the excessive reliance on red herrings, melodrama, and formulaic storytelling dilutes the suspense. While some moments show promise, such as Chidambaram’s nightmares hinting at unresolved trauma, they are undone by an overindulgence in flashbacks and subplots.
Technical Aspects
- Cinematography: The visuals capture the somber tone effectively, especially the crime scenes, but fail to elevate the narrative.
- Music & Background Score: The score, though decent, does not leave a lasting impact or enhance the tension.
- Editing: Pacing issues abound, with unnecessary scenes dragging the film beyond its welcome runtime.
Verdict
The Smile Man: A Promising Premise Let Down by Lazy Writing
Short Verdict
“A promising setup marred by cliched storytelling and lazy writing, The Smile Man fails to deliver a gripping thriller.”
Smile Man Cast & Crew Details
Cast
Sarath kumar – chidamabaram nedumaran
Sija rose – keerthana
Iniya – chithra
Sreekumar- aravind
Suresh menon – venkatesh
Natrajan – balamurugan
Rajkumar – pichumani
Malairajan – joseph
Crew
Directed by Syam-Praveen
Produced by Salildas, Aneesh Haridasan, Anandan T
Starring Supreme Star Sarath Kumar, Sri Kumar, Sijaa Rose, Ineya, George Maryan, Rajkumar, Kumar Natarajan, Baby Azhiya
Music composed by Gavaskar Avinash
Written by Kamala Alchemis
Cinematography by Vikram Mohan
Editor San Lokesh
Finance Controller Anu Mu
Executive Producer Mugesh Sharma
Costume Designer M Muhammed Subair
Stunts PC Stunt’s, K Ganesh Kumar
Sound Design A Sathish Kumar
Sound Mixing Harish
VFX Fire Fox
Makeup Vinod Sukumaran
Colorist Liju Prabhakar
DI Rang Rays Mediaworks
Stills Velu
Publicity Designs Rishi
PRO Sathish, Siva (Aim)
Subtitles Pradeep K Vijayan
Titles and Credits Rishi
Marketing Ka Film Company
