Meiyazhagan (2024): A Journey of Friendship, Forgiveness, and Finding Happiness

Directed by Prem Kumar, Meiyazhagan feels like an extension of his previous work in 96, carrying the same warm, reflective essence. It’s a feel-good movie that, while lengthy and dialogue-driven, keeps you engaged every step of the way. The cinematography and soundtrack are captivating, with a soulful track by Kamal Haasan that breathes life into the story's emotional landscape. Even the side characters, portrayed by Sri Divya and Rajkiran, bring charm and depth, adding layers to the overall experience.

Though Meiyazhagan may not resonate with everyone, I hope it finds its way into the hearts of those who appreciate beauty in the small things. I missed seeing it in the cinema, but watching it on Netflix felt like an experience meant for a comforting evening—a perfect pick-me-up. The exchanges between the two main characters are simple yet meaningful, unfolding like a heart-to-heart with an old friend. It’s reminiscent of reading a richly descriptive book, where you can picture every scene as vividly as if it were happening before your eyes. This movie invites you along on a journey of memories, their conversations packed with warmth and a nostalgia so genuine that you feel like an observer tagging along. Karthi and Aravind Swamy shine in their roles, and their on-screen friendship feels authentic.

Some conversations may feel drawn out, and not every topic will resonate universally, but the movie carries a poetic touch. It brings significance to the small, overlooked things in life, reminding me of the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Among the themes it explores, kindness stands out the most. It champions kindness toward oneself—to let go of past regrets—as well as kindness to others, reinforcing the idea that small, positive actions can ripple out in unimaginable ways. This movie beautifully illustrates how a single act of kindness can shape lives in profound, far-reaching ways.

Side Note: As the credits rolled, I sat there with a big smile, strangely reflective. I felt an unexpected kinship with Aravind Swamy's character—haunted by past mistakes and lingering regrets. It made me wonder if sometimes, like him, we need to pause and appreciate the good moments instead of letting anger and regret consume us. Bitterness is like poison—it eats away at you more than anyone else. In Meiyazhagan, Karthi’s character becomes the antidote to Aravind Swamy’s pain, but maybe that’s symbolic. Perhaps we each need to find our own antidote, whether it’s a person or something that simply makes us happy.