Krishnakumar Ramakumar’s Tamil film, *Oho Enthan Baby*, presents a cast of characters ripe for transformation. Alongside a likable uncle, the film features male characters displaying toxic behaviors, screaming at and taunting their partners. However, they undergo a change, becoming remorseful and seemingly cleansed.
This movie is about characters on a journey of self-improvement, and it benefits from this focus. The setup, crafted by Mukesh Manjunath and Sarada Ramanathan, may seem overly structured, yet the core theme of addressing toxicity remains intact. Despite the manipulative narrative choices, the film explores the complexities of these flawed characters.
The story centers on young Ashwin (Rudra, in a charming debut), whose parents’ constant fighting threatens to destroy their relationship. Ashwin dreams of becoming a filmmaker. He recounts his failed love life to actor Vishnu Vishal, who plays himself with notable candor.
The film-within-a-film structure cleverly incorporates borrowed elements, such as the finale, which echoes *Jab We Met* in its depiction of Ashwin pursuing his love, Meera (Mithila Palkar, pleasant but not particularly memorable), to Manipal. Despite these derivative elements, the film remains appealing.
These borrowed storytelling devices actually enhance the impact, rather than detract from it. The characters, though in need of development, possess a potential for likability despite their toxic traits. Ashwin, in particular, is driven by his own internal struggles, and his dedication to self-improvement is endearing.
The film starts with Ashwin’s adolescent infatuation with Raveena (Vaibhavi Tandle). The reason for Raveena’s actions, leading Ashwin on while she seemingly has feelings for another, remains unclear.
The Raveena storyline is brief, while the Meera storyline shapes Ashwin’s future and the film’s central narrative. While some outbursts feel contrived, the characters’ depth transcends the screenplay’s intentions.
The final product, while not perfect, is undeniably enjoyable.
