Parandhu Po (Fly Away), the latest offering from director Ram, is a delightful departure from his usual intense socio-political dramas, embracing a lighter, musical comedy-drama that soars with charm and sincerity. Released on July 4, 2025, this Tamil film, starring Shiva, Grace Antony, and young Mithul Ryan, is a refreshing exploration of family, parenting, and the simple joys of breaking free from the grind of urban life. With its whimsical narrative and heartfelt moments, Parandhu Po is a cinematic breeze that invites audiences to rediscover life through a child’s curious eyes.
Plot: A Road Trip to Rediscover Life
The story follows Gokul (Shiva), a middle-class entrepreneur drowning in financial pressures, and his eight-year-old son, Anbu (Mithul Ryan), a spirited and demanding child craving more than the material comforts his parents strive to provide. With Gokul’s wife, Glory (Grace Antony), away on a work trip, a routine bike ride spirals into an impromptu road trip through Tamil Nadu’s lush countryside. What begins as a chaotic escape from an EMI collector transforms into a journey of self-discovery, filled with quirky encounters, gentle humor, and life-affirming lessons. Anbu’s relentless curiosity and Gokul’s patient indulgence lead them to unexpected places—both geographically and emotionally—revealing the deeper needs beneath their everyday struggles.
Performances: A Trio That Shines
Shiva delivers a career-defining performance as Gokul, blending his signature deadpan humor with a touching vulnerability. His natural comedic timing elevates every scene, making even the most mundane moments laugh-out-loud funny, while his quieter moments reflect the weight of a father trying to keep up with life’s demands. Grace Antony is equally compelling as Glory, bringing warmth and restraint to a role that could have easily been overshadowed. Her subtle portrayal of a working mother balancing guilt and ambition adds depth to the family dynamic.
The real star, however, is young Mithul Ryan as Anbu. His performance is a revelation—equal parts mischievous, endearing, and authentic. Anbu’s tantrums and relentless demands never feel exaggerated, and Mithul’s ability to embody a child’s unfiltered perspective makes him the heart of the film. Supporting performances by Anjali, Aju Varghese, and Vijay Yesudas add color and charm, with each character contributing to the story’s tapestry of kindness and connection.
Direction and Writing:
Ram’s Light TouchKnown for heavy-hitting dramas like Peranbu and Thanga Meengal, Ram takes a bold step into lighter territory with Parandhu Po, and the result is a triumph. His thesis-driven approach—here, exploring the constraints of urban middle-class life and the yearning for freedom—remains intact but is wrapped in a breezy, accessible narrative. The screenplay is a masterclass in subtlety, weaving social commentary on consumerism and parenting into a structure-free road trip that feels organic and unforced. While the film’s 132-minute runtime occasionally lingers on certain sequences, Ram’s trust in the audience to feel the subtext—through a glance, a silence, or a playful exchange—keeps the story engaging.
The film’s musical comedy elements are a highlight, with Santhosh Dhayanidhi’s catchy, nursery-rhyme-like songs and Yuvan Shankar Raja’s evocative background score enhancing the emotional beats. The music feels like a character itself, guiding the narrative without overwhelming it. However, a few songs could have been trimmed to maintain the film’s otherwise crisp pacing.
Technical Brilliance:
A Visual and Emotional FeastN.K. Ekambaram’s cinematography is a standout, capturing the vibrant landscapes of Tamil Nadu and Kerala with a natural, earthy glow. From sprawling fields to misty hills, the visuals invite viewers to escape alongside the characters. Mathi V.S.’s editing keeps the film’s whimsical rhythm intact, though some transitions feel abrupt, particularly in the second half. The production design, rooted in the relatable clutter of a middle-class Chennai apartment, contrasts beautifully with the open, liberating spaces of the countryside.
Themes and Takeaways:
A Celebration of SimplicityAt its core, Parandhu Po is about finding joy in life’s unplanned detours. It gently critiques the urban rat race, where parents, in their pursuit of providing “everything,” often miss what their children truly need—time, connection, and freedom. The film never preaches, instead using humor and heartfelt moments to deliver its message. Anbu’s adventures—climbing trees, chasing ducks, or simply refusing to go home—remind us to embrace the childlike wonder we often lose to routine.
The film also celebrates kindness, with strangers along the journey embodying a quiet, unforced generosity that feels authentic. From a tea-stall owner’s empathy to a stranger’s unexpected help, these moments reinforce the idea that goodness exists, even in a world that feels overwhelming.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for All Ages
Parandhu Po is a rare gem—a film that balances humor, heart, and hope without slipping into melodrama. It’s a family-friendly watch that resonates with parents, children, and anyone who’s ever felt trapped by the pressures of modern life. While it may not carry the emotional weight of Ram’s earlier works, its lightness is its strength, offering a warm, uplifting experience that lingers like a fond memory. Whether you’re seeking a laugh, a tear, or a reminder to slow down and live, Parandhu Po delivers it all.
Rating: 4/5
Watch it in theaters for its vibrant visuals and infectious energy, or catch it later on #JioHotstar for a cozy family movie night. Either way, let #ParandhuPo take you on a journey to fly away, even if just for a moment.
