Gevi Movie Review: Earnest and emotional, but weakened by slow pacing and a flat climax

Gevi, directed by debutant Tamil Dhayalan, attempts to spotlight the real-life struggles of a remote hill village, but while its intentions are noble, the execution lacks consistency. Set in the fictional village of Vella Gevi near Kodaikanal, the film revolves around a pregnant woman going into labor and her husband’s desperate efforts to get her to a faraway hospital, only to be hunted by police over a past grudge. The premise is promising, drawing attention to urgent socio-political issues like poor infrastructure, lack of access to healthcare, and police abuse.

Despite its potential, the film stumbles in its narrative pacing. What starts as an emotionally driven survival drama slows down midway, veering into near-documentary territory. While realism is appreciated, the script struggles to maintain engagement, and the climax ends without delivering the impact it builds toward.

Performance-wise, Sheela delivers a commendable turn, especially during the labor scenes that feel raw and authentic. Aadhavan handles the emotional weight well, but supporting characters despite being functional, don’t leave a lasting impression, with the exception of Charles Vinoth as the vengeful cop. The film’s technical aspects are notable: the use of natural lighting by cinematographer Jagan Jaya Surya lends visual honesty, and the music by Bala Subramanian, particularly a Vairamuthu-penned number, adds poetic texture.

Yet, Gevi ultimately feels like a film that wants to provoke thought more than it wants to tell a gripping story. The balance between message and storytelling falters, resulting in a film that resonates more as a social statement than as compelling cinema.

Gevi Movie Rating: 2.5/5