Title: Modern Love Chennai: A Flavourful Anthology with Standout Episodes, Though Some Stories Feel Stretched
Directors: Bharathirajaa, Thiagarajan Kumararaja, Akshay Sundher, Balaji Sakthivel, Rajumurugan, and Krishnakumar Ramakumar
Streaming on: Amazon Prime India
Language: Tamil (with subtitles)
Synopsis: Modern Love Chennai, a six-episode anthology streaming on Amazon Prime India, is a delightful celebration of love, friendship, and relationships set in the vibrant city of Chennai. Each episode presents a unique love story, unconnected to one another, allowing viewers to watch them in any order. While the anthology offers a mix of stories on love and heartbreak, some episodes shine brighter than others.
Musical Connect: “Margazhi”
Directed by Akshay Sunder with a story by Balaji Tharaneetharan, “Margazhi” tells the heartwarming tale of two young children who bond over their parents’ separation during a choir class. This slow-starting episode gradually captivates with its beautiful, old-school love story. It delivers a powerful message of accepting cultural differences in relationships, accompanied by lively and cheerful music.
Embrace imperfections: “Imaigal”
Directed by Balaji Sakthivel, “Imaigal” explores the story of a woman facing impending blindness who confesses her condition to her partner. The episode, featuring Ashok Selvan and T.J. Bhanu, delves into the challenges their love faces when life gets complicated. With strongly etched characters, this intense love story leaves a lasting impact, even though it feels a bit dry at times.
The feeling of being in love: “Kaadhal Enbadhu Kannula Heart Irukkura Emoji”
Directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar and written by Reshma Ghatala, “Kaadhal Enbadhu Kannula Heart Irukkura Emoji” follows a hopelessly romantic, cinema-obsessed ’90s kid. Featuring Ritu Varma, Samyuktha Viswanathan, Pawan Alex, and Aniiruth Kanakarajan, this episode showcases love and romance from a woman’s perspective. While the straightforward writing hampers the story’s impact, the music by G.V. Prakash Kumar adds charm to the episode filled with romantic tropes.
Puzzling: “Ninaivo Oru Paravai”
Directed by Thiagarajan Kumararaja and featuring Wamiqa Gabbi and PB, “Ninaivo Oru Paravai” stands out for its aesthetic appeal but lacks a compelling narrative. Set to the timeless music of Maestro Ilaiyaraaja, the episode offers moments of joy but leaves viewers puzzled with its storyline.
There is no life without love: “Paravai Kootil Vaazhum Maangal”
Directed by Bharathiraja and written by Pratheep Kumar S, “Paravai Kootil Vaazhum Maangal” explores the concept of falling in love and the uncertainties it brings. With Kishore, Ramya Nambessan, and Vijayalakshmi in the lead, this episode’s story is accompanied by the soulful music composed by Maestro Ilaiyaraaja. While the music stands out, the episode’s storytelling feels dragged and may challenge viewers’ moral compass.
Love doesn’t need to be perfect: “Lalagunda Bommaigal”
Directed by Rajumurugan, “Lalagunda Bommaigal” presents a unique love story centered around a heartbroken but sharp-tongued young butter-biscuit maker. Featuring Sri Gouri Priya, Vasude
