Netflix’s latest offering, Perusu, an adult comedy starring Vaibhav and Sunil Reddy, has arrived, promising a unique and hilarious experience. Available in Tamil, Telugu, and other languages, the film hinges on a dark premise: the sudden and suspicious death of a well-respected community member. But does it deliver on its comedic potential?
Story
The story revolves around Halasyam, whose untimely demise throws his family into disarray. His observant older son, Sami, played by Sunil Reddy, suspects foul play, and soon, he, Vaibhav as the younger son, their wives, mother, and other family members uncover a bizarre truth surrounding Halasyam’s passing. Driven by a desperate need to protect their family’s reputation, they embark on a mission to conceal the truth from the prying eyes of the outside world. The film slowly unravels the mystery: What really happened to Halasyam? What shocking discovery did the family make? And why are they so determined to keep it a secret?
Performances
Adding to the film’s charm is the genuine chemistry between Vaibhav and Sunil Reddy, who are brothers in real life. Vaibhav perfectly embodies the carefree younger son, while Sunil Reddy shines as the responsible elder sibling, deeply concerned with maintaining appearances. The supporting cast, featuring the likes of Niharika NM, Chandini Tamilarasan, Bala Saravanan, Munishkanth, and Redin Kingsley, further enriches the narrative.
Final Verdict
Perusu thrives on situational humor, and for the most part, it succeeds admirably. The film’s strength lies in its ability to wring laughter from the absurdity of the characters’ predicaments. This awkward, yet relatable, comedic style proves effective in portraying the often-cringeworthy behavior of neighbors and relatives during a funeral. Director Ilango Ram demonstrates a bold and distinctive style, but the screenplay falters somewhat in its later stages.
While the director clearly understands the niche appeal of the story and effectively incorporates humor, the film’s relatively thin plot can lead to moments where the narration feels stretched. However, this feeling is fleeting, as the introduction of a surprise character during the climax injects a fresh dose of humor, culminating in a satisfying and upbeat conclusion. Overall, Perusu offers a potentially humorous and unconventional viewing experience.