Maareesan

Maareesan (2025) is an emotional road drama by the director Sudheesh Sankar. It features Vadivelu, Fahadh Faasil, Kovai Sarala and Vivek Prasanna. The film is about Daya, a young man recently released from prison, who meets Velayudham, an elderly man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. They set out on a life-changing journey where they learn about trust and forgiveness, as well as how humans are connected.

Daya is a young man who has just been released from prison, and Velayudham is an old man who is suffering from Alzheimer's disease. When Daya sees Velayudham withdrawing a large amount of money, he plans to swindle the money from him. But when Daya finds out Velayudham is going on a journey to his childhood home in Thiruvannamalai, he tags along. Daya observes the delicate and gentle nature of Velayudham as he navigates the challenges that he is experiencing.

While he struggles with memory issues, Velayudham recalls the beautiful moments with his wife and lost family through stories from the past. Meanwhile, Daya struggles with his own issues as he faces regrets, but he slowly feels as if he cares for Velayudham like family. Their journey reveals small adventures, humour and love, but also heartbreaking moments in the end. In Thiruvannamalai, Velayudham makes connections with his roots, bringing him peace with his life. In the end, Daya decides not to follow through with self-generating plans, and instead helps Velayudham flourish in his last days with dignity and love. This film ends with hope, demonstrating that kindness and friendship are truly life-changing.

Maareesan is a tender film that delicately shows the tenuous bonds forged between two unlikely companions. The performances are authentic and warm, broadening our view of what togetherness and kindness look like, and can be, in a world where we cannot help but share in each other's daily struggles and quiet kindness with each other. It reminds us how compassion can build bridges between wounds, and sometimes form empathy in the most unlikely participants. On a human level, this film leaves an impression long after the film ends because of its uncomplicated humanity.