"Oh Enthan Baby," directed by Krishnakumar Ramakumar, presents a familiar yet endearing romantic drama that explores the complexities of modern relationships, healing from past traumas, and the often-toxic dynamics that can arise. While the film treads on well-worn paths of the rom-com genre, its charming cast, feel-good moments, and self-aware humor provide enough freshness to keep audiences engaged.
The film employs a story-within-a-story format. Ashwin, an aspiring filmmaker, attempts to narrate a story to actor Vishnu Vishal (playing himself) to get a chance to direct a movie. However, he ends up recounting his own love story with Meera, a doctor with her own emotional baggage. Their initial meeting sparks a connection, leading to a seemingly perfect relationship. However, the dysfunctional dynamics of Ashwin's parents and Meera's troubled family background soon cast a shadow on their romance.
"Oh Enthan Baby" delves into the impact of broken relationships, showcasing how past experiences can shape one's behavior and expectations in love. Ashwin's upbringing, marked by his parents' constant conflicts, has led him to develop certain toxic qualities. Meera, on the other hand, grapples with her own set of issues stemming from her family. The film explores how these characters navigate their individual struggles while trying to build a healthy relationship.
The film is not without its share of clichés. Some plot developments feel overly familiar, and the resolutions appear too neat considering the characters' flaws and scars. Certain subplots, such as Ashwin's parents' unhappy marriage and Meera's mother's character, feel underdeveloped and unconvincing. However, the film's strengths lie in its ability to acknowledge its own tropes and use them to comedic effect. The meta references, particularly the appearances of director Mysskin and Vishnu Vishal playing themselves, add a layer of humor that resonates with audiences familiar with Tamil cinema.
Rudra makes a confident debut as Ashwin, while Mithila Palkar shines as Meera, bringing her character to life with an effervescent portrayal. The supporting cast, including Nirmal Pillai as Ashwin's best friend and Karunakaran, also deliver solid performances. Jen Martin's music and Harish Kannan's cinematography contribute to the film's overall feel-good vibe.
Despite its reliance on familiar tropes and some unevenness in the screenplay, "Oh Enthan Baby" manages to be a watchable and enjoyable entertainer. It's a feel-good film that explores themes of love, healing, and personal growth with a touch of humor and self-awareness. While it may not be a groundbreaking cinematic achievement, it offers a refreshing and breezy take on the romantic-drama genre.