Chennai, once the heart of Telugu cinema, has seen the industry shift to Hyderabad since the early ’90s. Yet, Chennai continues to resonate with the Telugu community, especially those from Andhra Pradesh. Interestingly, many contemporary filmmakers haven’t really tapped into this connection—until now.
Ashwin Chandrasekar’s debut film, Couple Friendly, shines a light on this unique relationship by following two young people who migrate to Chennai to forge their own paths.
Couple Friendly Overview
- Director: Ashwin Chandrasekar
- Cast: Santosh Soban, Manasa Varanasi, Goparaju Ramana, Rajeev Kanakala, Livingston, Yogi Babu, Sriranjani
- Runtime: 121 minutes
- Plot: Siva and Mithra leave their hometowns in Andhra to start anew in Chennai.
Siva, portrayed by Santosh Soban, struggles under his family’s expectations in Nellore. He hopes to make it in interior design but feels lost. A brief internship in Chennai offers an escape. Meanwhile, Mithra (Manasa Varanasi) is hopeful yet uncertain about her job prospects and faces pressure to marry an arranged suitor.
As fate intertwines their paths, Siva and Mithra become roommates. Both are hitting rock bottom—Siva is reeling from a breakup and struggling with rent, while Mithra is caught in a dead-end wait for a job offer. Their friendship blossoms in this shared space, providing comfort amidst their chaotic lives.
Initially, the film unfolds like a typical romantic comedy. The chemistry between Siva and Mithra takes center stage, with their everyday conversations and growing intimacy portrayed in a refreshing light. The couple navigates the ups and downs of living together, reflecting modern relationship dynamics. Notably, the film also includes Mithra’s friend Prithi, highlighting another unconventional love story with an age difference.
Interestingly, the film’s dialogue blends Telugu with Tamil, making it feel authentic in its Chennai setting. The involvement of Tamil actors like Livingston and Yogi Babu adds depth to the narrative.
As the story progresses, unexpected plot twists challenge the couple, bringing a heavier emotional weight to the film. Despite some predictable moments, Ashwin’s directorial touch prevails, presenting a tender and thoughtful portrayal of young love.
Chennai is more than just a backdrop; it breathes life into the characters’ journeys. The cinematography captures the city’s essence, from bustling streets to serene terraces, immersing viewers in the couple’s everyday world.
Music plays a vital role in Couple Friendly. The catchy soundtrack complements the plot’s emotional shifts. Various artists contribute, enhancing the film’s tone and atmosphere.
The character development is equally compelling. Siva’s transformation from a carefree youth to a responsible adult is notable. Santosh Soban delivers a strong performance that resonates deeply. Manasa Varanasi balances ambition and vulnerability as Mithra, creating an authentic dynamic between the two leads.
Supporting characters, such as Siva’s father and Mithra’s mother, add further layers to the story. They grapple with tradition and change, giving the film a richer context.
While Couple Friendly may not be groundbreaking in its premise, it resonates with viewers for its relatable themes. The film approaches modern romance with maturity and empathy, focusing on both individual struggles and shared dreams.
This film stands as a testament to the fact that you can tell a meaningful love story that connects with audiences, proving that heartfelt narratives need not sacrifice complexity or depth for mainstream appeal.
For more on the film, check out its trailer here: Trailer.
In the evolving landscape of Telugu cinema, Couple Friendly reminds us of the cultural and emotional ties that stories from Chennai can convey, especially as they bridge connections across generations and landscapes.
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‘Couple Friendly’ movie review,Santosh Sobhan,Manasa Varanasi
