House Mates Movie Review: A Strange Stay with Laughs, Love, and the Unknown

House Mates Movie Review: A Strange Stay with Laughs, Love, and the Unknown 

House Mates, directed by T. Raja Vel under the banner of SK Productions, is a unique attempt that blends horror with science fiction, wrapped in a layer of comedy. The film features Kaali Venkat, Darshan, Vinodhini, Aarsha Chandini Baiju, and child artist Master Henrik in lead roles. The narrative begins at a sub-registrar's office where Karthik (played by Darshan) purchases a second-hand flat, investing all his savings in hopes of convincing Anu’s (Aarsha Chandini Baiju) father to approve their marriage. Her father, however, is adamant that his daughter should only marry a man who owns a house. Despite the purchase, he refuses the match, prompting Anu to elope and marry Karthik.

Following their marriage, the couple moves into their newly bought apartment, Flat F1-where the real story begins. Strange and unexplained occurrences disrupt their new life, marking the entry point of the film’s horror-sci-fi elements. The tension builds as the mysterious environment of the flat becomes increasingly unsettling, setting the stage for unexpected twists.

The narrative further expands with the introduction of another couple, Ramesh and his wife (played by Kaali Venkat and Vinodhini). Their involvement adds both intrigue and humor to the story. The screenplay cleverly mixes ghostly suspense with light-hearted comedy, offering a different flavor to viewers who appreciate experimental storytelling. The combination of genres creates an unpredictable and engaging atmosphere.

Darshan, in his first major role after Kanaa, delivers a sincere performance, showing a notable step forward in his acting journey. Aarsha Chandini Baiju, as the female lead, brings elegance and charm to her role, portraying Anu with grace and conviction. Kaali Venkat and Vinodhini provide comic relief and balance the eerie tone with their impeccable timing. Special mention goes to Master Henrik, whose innocent face and bold performance leave a lasting impression.

Technically, the film holds up well. The cinematography by M.S. Satheesh effectively captures the eerie and mysterious mood of the setting. The visuals complement the storyline, especially in the haunted portions. Rajesh Murugesan’s music subtly supports the film’s transitions from humor to horror, enhancing the overall experience. Director T. Raja Vel deserves appreciation for attempting a genre mash-up that’s rarely explored in Tamil cinema, delivering a film that might resonate well with audiences looking for something unusual.