Pa Paandi: An Emotional Journey

This movie was recommended to me by a friend along with some other titles. The lockdown mode was a good opportunity to catch up on some of these flicks along with my usual routine of reading and writing. 

Pa Paandi is the story of Power Paandi- an ex stuntman in the Tamil Film Industry. Having retired from his profession, Paandi lives with his son, daughter in law and two grandchildren. Feeling restless with nothing to do, Paandi tries to get involved in certain issues around his society which lands him into trouble. This causes embarrassment for his son which leads to some arguments. Tired of feeling like a burden to his son, Paandi decides to seek freedom and embarks on a journey on his old Bullet. This journey enables him to meet his first love, gain closure and also iron out differences with his son who realizes his folly.

A well directed film with some wonderful performances. The movie touches upon several themes. It showcases the perils of retired life and the issues that many face during their twilight years.  It is certainly hard to lead a quiet life especially if one is accustomed to leading an action-packed life like that of Paandi’s. This void often causes a dent in one’s self worth, making them feel unwanted.  Your heart goes out to Paandi in several instances. When he is not understood by his son or when he feels stifled in a house that spells opulence which is referred by Paandi as a golden cage. You cheer for him when he dares to embark on an adventure and meet his counterparts on a highway who introduce him to social media. 

Some of the stories narrated by the old men reminds one of the issues faced by people in an old age home. It reminded me of my visit to an old age home during my Undergraduate days when I was majoring in Psychology. It was a part of an assignment and was heart wrenching listening to some of the stories. 

The love between the grandfather and grandchildren is clearly highlighted here. Especially in the scene where the neighbor converses with the two children, subtly holding the phone with Paandi on the other end. It makes one go teary eyed. This scene particularly touched an emotional chord reminding me of my rapport with my late grandfather. He would often take off on those long walks without informing anyone about his whereabouts. I would constantly worry about his safety as a little girl. 

Even the scenes where Pandi meets his former flame after many years is captured with a lot of maturity.  Showcases the importance of gaining closure in life. 

Pa Paandi is endearing, heartwarming and definitely a tear jerker. It reminded me of books like ‘A man called Ove’ and ‘My grandmother asked me to tell you I am sorry’. Without the unnecessary song sequences, of course. The movie imparts an important lesson of valuing and understanding people around you before it’s too late. It left me feeling emotional and with an empty box of tissues.