Exploring Nila: Shanthi Krishna's Story

Indu Lakshmi’s directorial debut, ‘Nila,’ brings a heartwarming narrative of resilience. The film focuses on Dr. Malathi (Shanthi Krishna), a gynaecologist bedridden due to a spinal injury. Her son, Mahi (Vineeth), believes her fears are linked to her medical condition. The story unfolds as Malathi befriends a girl named Nila from an adjacent apartment. The film explores their bond, with Malathi wondering if Nila is real or a product of her failing memory.

The character development takes time, showcasing the strong mother-son relationship. Vineeth delivers a sincere performance as Mahi. Veteran actor Mamukkoya shines as Rahman, though his role could have been more substantial. Mini IG portrays the unfriendly home nurse effectively. Ananya impresses as Nila, winning hearts with her singing and Kannur dialect.

However, it’s Shanthi Krishna who steals the spotlight with her outstanding portrayal of the stubborn yet upright Malathi. Despite her accented Malayalam, her performance is captivating and perhaps her career-best.

The film, with a runtime of 95 minutes, is a character study that doesn’t preach. The observations about love and relationships are relatable. Kudos to the editors for the smooth flow, though the climax twists feel dramatic. The background score and songs blend well.

‘Nila’ is a part of the Kerala State Film Development Corporation’s initiative to support women in cinema. Indu Lakshmi’s directorial prowess shines through, making her a promising director to watch.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindu