Story:
Siddhu (Nikhil Siddharth), a software developer, loves a girl but she cheats on him. This makes Siddhu depressed and that's when he comes across Nandhini's (Anupama Parameswaran) diary on the way. Siddhu starts reading and slowly falls in love with her. Siddhu learns many interesting facts about Nandhini and when he tries to meet her, there is a big twist in the tale. What is this? Did he meet her? Has Siddhu expressed his feelings for Nandhini?
Extra Points:
There have been several films in the past where the lead pair loved each other without meeting. 18 Pages falls into the same category and the creators manage to showcase the romantic aspect in a fair way. In today's era, it is difficult to show love without the combination scenes of the lead pair, but Sukumar's plot has some nice moments that keep the audience engaged.
The chemistry between Nikhil and Anupama can be felt even though they don't meet till the end. The writing here is well balanced with fun and love parts. The songs drive the story and they are well placed with meaningful lyrics. The director has made the first half breezy and simple with good comedy bits. The climax is again sweet and simple, which works well.
Nikhil has chosen a different script next time and the actor has performed well. He is very good in funny sequences and emotional scenes bring out the actor in him. Anupama Parameswaran is a natural as Nandhini and there is a root to her character from her very first scene. She is believable as a small town girl and her scenes are well written.
Sarayu gets a good full length role and works well. Also, several important social aspects like how social media and mobile phones affect human connection and interaction are beautifully illustrated. There is a small sequence where Nikhil says that one should devote one's time to one's aged parents, to one's inner depth.
Negative points:
While the first half is quite cute with some good magical moments, the second half is where the chart goes down. Processes here are quite slow and moments are very difficult. Of course, a solid second half awaits, but the course of events is not so impressive.
There is a suspense factor to Anupama's character which becomes too common after a while. Flashbacks are pretty regular and the pace is not maintained during this particular episode. Thrilling elements lack punch and hence the film becomes monotonous at places. Ajay and Shatru's characters don't matter much and play the role of common villains.
Technical Aspects:
Every song in the movie is well composed by Gopi Sundar and the background score is also mesmerizing. Vasant's cinematography is beautiful and the songs are beautifully rendered. There are several dubbing issues that affect the viewing experience.
Coming to director Surya Pratap, he has done a decent job with the film. It has succeeded in bringing out the best in the lead pair, but could have been a bit cautious with questionable parts and a few key sequences. Director Sukumar has penned a feel-good vibe and makes his mark at several points.
Verdict:
All in all, 18 Pages is a decent love story that offers a different feel to the audience. In addition to the exceptional performances of the leading couple, several topical issues were also touched upon. For the most part, it's good that the film works on a light note. If you ignore the slightly slow second half and the usual flashback parts, the film ends up being a decent watch this weekend.
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