Abhiyum Anuvum movie review: Daring concept that demands much flair and artistry

Direction: BR Vijayalakshmi

Cast: Tovino Thomas, Pia Bajpai, Prabhu, Suhasini, Rohini

Abhiyum Anuvum, directed by BR Vijayalakshmi, Asia’s first woman cinematographer, is a tale with a tagline, ‘A fearless love story’. Returning to direction after a hiatus of sorts, Vijayalakshmi has made sure that this isn't a routine love story that you come across in every other film.

Also read: Abhiyum Anuvum has sensational theme

Abhimanyu aka Abhi (Tovino Thomas) is an IT professional and a normal youth who is interested in watching all viral videos. He is a loner from childhood studying in a boarding school and now lives alone in a plush apartment, as his affluent parents (Udhayabhanu Maheshwaran, who has also penned the script, and Deepa Ramanujam) are busy abroad with their businesses. He comes across Anusuya aka Anu (Pia Bajpai), who lives in Mettupaalayam with her adorable mom Meena (Rohini), on Facebook. Watching Anu everyday, he gets fascinated with her lovable videos and eventually falls for her. Though she rejects his friend request initially, Abhi’s subsequent act makes her reciprocate. On impulse, both of them decide to marry without even informing their parents. All seems well with the couple, and they are on cloud nine when Anu becomes pregnant. Soon, a shocking revelation tears them apart and questions the very foundation of their relationship.

Also read: An intense lip-lock in Abhiyum Anuvum

Though AA deals with a bold theme, the writing lacks the kind of sensitivity and finesse such a subject warrants. Neither is Vijayalakshmi’s treatment tangible. The way the lead pair fall for each other and marries hurriedly looks bit a fake. Tovino, whose accent reminds us of Mammootty’s earlier Tamil movies, is just about adequate. Pia, with matured looks, does a good job in an unusual character. Suhasini, Prabhu and Rohini chip in with their bits. Overall, a daring concept that demands much flair and artistry!