Paranthu Po Movie Review: “Mischief, Memories & a Message – Paranthu Po Hits Home”

Paranthu Po Movie Review: “Mischief, Memories & a Message – Paranthu Po Hits Home”

Paranthu Po is a family drama written and directed by Ram, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Shiva, Grace Antony, Anjali, Mithul Ryan, Vijay Yesudas, and Aju Varghese. The film is backed by Seven Seas, Seven Hills Production, GKS Production, and is set to release on July 4, 2025, via JioCinema. With music scored by Santhosh Dhayanidhi and an emotionally resonant BGM by Yuvan Shankar Raja, the film aims to strike a chord with family audiences.

The story opens with young Anbu (played by Mithul Ryan), a mischievous yet lovable boy. He shares a playful bond with his father, Gokul (Shiva), who shoulders the responsibility of caring for Anbu and managing the household, while his wife (Grace Antony) moves to Coimbatore in search of income by setting up a saree stall to repay the family’s EMI debts.

Anbu, full of energy and innocent mischief, often troubles his father but does so in ways that reflect deep affection. He cherishes the little joys in life and longs to share them with his parents, while they dream of offering him a comfortable, financially secure upbringing. The father-son dynamic, filled with pranks and playful clashes, becomes the emotional core of the film.

Things take a turn when Gokul and Anbu are chased by a loan recovery agent during a bike ride. To avoid confrontation, Gokul decides to temporarily move away from the city. They visit Gokul's native village, where he unexpectedly reconnects with his childhood crush Vanitha (played by Anjali), adding a nostalgic layer to the narrative.

Meanwhile, Anbu is invited by a school friend to spend time at her farmhouse, where he explores a more carefree life. However, one issue bothers him deeply, his father's smoking habit. In an attempt to make his father quit, Anbu resorts to comical and dramatic antics. These moments bring both laughter and introspection, showcasing the child’s maturity and emotional intelligence.

The turning point of the film is when Anbu finally opens up about his heartfelt wishes. Whether his parents fulfil those dreams forms the emotional climax of Paranthu Po. Director Ram ties it all together with a thoughtful message, reminding viewers that such little moments and struggles are universal, found in every household.

The performances elevate the film. Shiva, in the role of Gokul, delivers a delightful mix of humor and sentimentality, showcasing his signature comic timing and emotional depth. Grace Antony is a standout; her natural elegance and expressive acting add a quiet strength to her character. Mithul Ryan, as the spirited Anbu, steals the show with his innocent charm and spirited performance. Anjali as Vanitha offers grace and nostalgia, while Vijay Yesudas and Aju Varghese provide solid support in brief but effective roles.

With cinematography by N.K. Ekhambram, the film captures both the vibrance of urban life and the serenity of the village beautifully. The screenplay is simple yet emotionally rich, filled with relatable moments that make the audience reflect on their own family lives. At 140 minutes, Paranthu Po is a feel-good family entertainer that gently reminds us of the joy in small things and the strength of familial bonds.