Screen Time: Survival, Surprises, and Second Chance
April Highlights: A fisherman fights for survival in foreign waters; a group of women are unexpectedly drawn into the world of crime; a detective handles a high-profile murder case; and an architect finds love where she least expects it.
Thandel (Telugu)
Netflix
Inspired by real-life events in 2018, Thandel brings to the screen the gripping and emotional journey of fishermen from Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, who unintentionally crossed into Pakistani waters, leading to a harrowing 18-month ordeal. Naga Chaitanya plays Raju, a fisherman deeply in love with Satya (Sai Pallavi). Their love story takes a dramatic turn when Raju, despite Satya’s pleas to find safer work, embarks on another fishing expedition—only to be detained in Pakistan. What follows is a tale of endurance, love, and the indomitable human spirit, as the couple fights against all odds to reunite.
The love story, though deeply moving, overpowers the larger plot about human survival in the most harrowing of circumstances. The collective sorrow of the fishing community is slightly overshadowed by the intense romance of the lead couple. A tighter second half and a more realistic use of special effects would have elevated this film. That said, viewers can still enjoy a cinematic experience that is propped up by a soulful soundtrack—Bujji Thalli, Hilesso, and Siva Shakti all being chartbusters.
Dabba Cartel (Hindi)
Netflix
This series from Excel Entertainment—Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani’s production house—has been highly anticipated, largely due to its stellar ensemble cast. Leading the charge is the legendary Shabana Azmi as Sheila Ben, a seemingly sweet and grandmotherly figure with a far more formidable side. Joining her is Raji (Shalini Pandey), her determined daughter-in-law who runs a dabba (tiffin) service, tirelessly saving for a better life abroad. Then there’s Varuna (Jyotika), a struggling businesswoman; Mala (Nimisha Sajayan), a domestic worker striving to secure a brighter future for her daughter; and Shahida (Anjali Anand), a real estate broker in love with Preeti (Sai Tamhankar), a cop.
Set in Mumbai’s bustling suburb of Thane, the story follows these women as their modest lunchbox delivery venture takes an unexpected and dangerous turn, thrusting them into the illicit world of drug trafficking under the control of a ruthless drug lord, played with surprising menace by Sunil Grover. As they grapple with their already complicated lives—navigating a pregnancy, blackmail, and betrayal—the women find themselves sinking deeper into the murky depths of crime.
The performances are top-notch, with Azmi delivering a particularly chilling moment as she coldly threatens a goon’s child to get what she wants—a brief but unforgettable scene that she absolutely owns. With an explosive first season, Season 2 is eagerly awaited!
Suzhal Season 2 (Tamil)
Amazon Prime Video
The thrilling saga of suspense and secrets continues with the second season of this twisty series. The first season was a game-changer for Tamil web series, setting a new standard for investigative thrillers. Set in the small town of Sambaloor, the story revolved around the disappearance of 15-year-old Nila. As sub-inspector Sakkarai (Kathir) and inspector Regina (Shriya Reddy) dug deeper, ably helped by Nila’s traumatised sister Nandini (Aishwarya Rajesh), the case unearthed long-buried secrets, shaking the town’s foundation. The series blended mythology with mystery, using the Mayana Kollai festival as a powerful narrative device.
Season two picks up with another compelling mystery. This time, Chellappa (Lal), a prominent lawyer and activist, is found dead under suspicious circumstances. His murder coincides with Kaalipattanam’s annual Ashtakaali Festival, setting the stage for an intense investigation. Sakkarai returns, assisting the grieving family while uncovering hidden conflicts that threaten to resurface. As the story unfolds, past and present collide, revealing dark truths. While the pacing slows in parts, Suzhal retains its signature suspense, weaving together personal struggles, cultural depth, and crime. Kathir is superlative and the cinematography continues to enhance the show’s eerie yet immersive atmosphere. Though fans of the first season might be a tad disappointed, the second season delivers a well-crafted, engaging thriller that keeps audiences invested.
Kadhalikka Neramillai (Tamil)
Netflix
Some more mix-ups and baby business in this sweet, romantic comedy that is loosely inspired by the Hollywood film The Switch (2010). Shriya (Nithya Menen), a passionate architect, takes control of her future after a painful breakup by choosing motherhood through IVF. However, an unexpected mix-up at the clinic leads to structural engineer Sid (Ravi Mohan) unknowingly becoming the biological father of her child. Years later, their paths cross in Chennai, where they find themselves competing for the same project. Sid bonds with Shriya’s son, unaware of their true connection. What happens next is a journey of love, laughter, and unexpected turns, as fate brings them together for a second chance at happiness.
Mohan and Menen shine in their roles—their chemistry keeps the narrative engaging, making their journey from strangers to something more truly compelling. Yogi Babu injects humor at just the right moments, while Vinay Rai and T.J. Bhanu bring depth to the supporting cast. The young actor portraying Parthiv is particularly impressive. A.R. Rahman’s soundtrack elevates the film, seamlessly blending soulful melodies with energetic tracks that enhance the storytelling. Though the plot follows some familiar beats, it compensates with sharp dialogues and genuine emotional depth. The subplot involving Sid’s ex, Nirupama, feels somewhat forced, but that’s a minor quibble. While it may not have received the best box office response or critical praise, Kadhalikka Neramillai is still worth a one-time watch.
Baisakhi Roy is a culture writer and journalist based in Ontario, Canada. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Huffington Post Canada, Chatelaine, Broadview and CBC. Formerly a reporter with The Indian Express in India, Roy is an avid Bollywood fan and co-hosts the Hindi language podcast KhabardaarPodcast.com. Email: baisakhi.roy@gmail.com
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