Kannukkul Nilavu

Story:

“Kannukkul Nilavu” is a 2000 Indian Tamil-language romantic thriller film written and directed by Fazil. The movie follows the story of Gautham Prabhakar, a young man suffering from a neurological condition that causes partial retrograde amnesia and delusions due to a head injury. He embarks on a desperate search for a girl named Gayathri in Pondicherry, whom he believes to be his lover. With the help of a group of friends led by Hema, they gradually come to understand his condition and the potential dangers it poses.

Gautham’s past is unveiled as he recalls being a musicologist who encountered three men in a hill resort in Tamil Nadu. These men, Prakash, Soundar, and Shanmugam, were from Pondicherry and frequently teased Gayathri, a local girl. Gautham’s life takes a dark turn when he attempts to rescue Gayathri from the men’s molestation but ends up with a severe head injury. In his delusional state, Gautham believes that Gayathri was murdered, and he vows to avenge her death.

Dr. Rajashekar, Hema’s father and a psychiatrist, becomes aware of Gautham’s condition and its potential implications. He explains to Hema and her friends that treating Gautham and restoring his memories might transform him into a violent and aggressive person. They decide to delay any action until Gautham’s mother arrives from Malaysia, unaware that she has been desperately searching for her son in India.

As Hema cares for Gautham, a deep bond forms between them. Hema wonders if her affection can help Gautham forget about Gayathri and return to normalcy. However, when Gautham’s mother arrives, his past memories resurface, and he becomes consumed by thoughts of revenge against the three men. The film’s remainder explores how Hema, Gautham’s mother, and Dr. Rajashekar cope with Gautham’s newfound aggression. Dr. Rajashekar devises a plan to cure him, leading to a heartwarming resolution where Gautham reconciles with his past and relationships.

“Kannukkul Nilavu” explores themes of memory, love, and psychological healing within a suspenseful narrative, earning praise for its storytelling and Vijay’s performance.