Feel-good films are always a safe bet when they work. Though Tamil cinema doesn't explore such genres as much as the Malayalam ones, we get a few that take us on an emotional-yet-beautiful ride. Good Night is definitely one such film that delves into the common problem of snoring and its extreme adversities to present a heartwarming tale. The film introduces us to the protagonist, Mohan's (Manikandan) snoring issue right away even before the visuals start, and then gets into his usual life with the background of his family and his love interest. Mohan lives with his sister (Raichel Rebecca), brother-in-law Ramesh (Ramesh Thilak), mother, and his younger sibling. While rejections become a routine for him, things change when he meets Anu (Meetha Raghunath) by chance. Love sparks between the two in unusual-yet-pleasing circumstances, and they get married in no-time. Having hidden his snoring issues from his life-partner, little does he know that he would end up blaming himself for his partner's sleep deprivation and the following health hazards. Can he sort this snoring issue out and other problems in his family to lead a peaceful life without any chaos? Good Night, directed by Vinayak, has managed to incorporate some beautiful moments here and there, giving us a compelling watch. Every character is well-established, and the writing and the film-making sensibilities of the maker are evident throughout. Anu and Mohan's initial romantic sequences have come out very well, leaving smiles on our faces for most parts. As the conflicts grow, the second half gets filled with emotion and drama before things get resolved. The best thing about Good Night is that each and every character in the film has performed extremely well, making us invest in them wholeheartedly. However, at the same time, the director packs too many moments in the second half where transition happens swiftly. As a whole, the film does move us, connect us, and entertain us in many ways. The bond between Ramesh Thilak and Manikandan is portrayed effectively, and the scenes involving the two work big time. Also, the director's decision to cast Meetha as Manikandan's love interest favours the film. Others might have struggled to pull off that sort of innocent look on-screen. Meetha carried her role perfectly, without any flaws. Other actors, including Ramesh Thilak, Balaji Shakthivel, and Raichel Rebecca, have delivered their best portraying intense emotions. But Manikandan stands tall. Be it dialogue, expressions, or body language, he doesn't fake. He stays in his character and helps elevate even normal scenes to another level. Sean Roldan's music, too, saves very few dull moments that come after the interval. All that said, Good Night is an example of how feel-good films can be made with simpler-yet-effective conflict. It's definitely worth watching.Read more

Simple stories with real-life problems are hard to come by. These days, films require larger-than-life treatment. But, when movies like Thiruchitrambalam and DaDa work, it brings a smile to your face. These films remind your struggles in life and prove that your problems are not far-fetched. Manikandan’s Good Night is a nice little addition to the said list of films. Mohan (Manikandan) is an IT employee, who has severe snoring issues. His family comprises his mom, sister Maha (Raichal Rebecca), brother-in-law Ramesh (Ramesh Thilak), and his younger sister and mother. Meanwhile, there’s Anu (Meetha Raghunath) who is depressed in life as she considers herself unlucky. Her house owners are a cute couple (Thatha and Paati), who wants good things to happen for Anu. When depressed Mohan meets Anu, his life lights up. However, there is a problem. A huge problem. What happens when his snoring issues affect his marital life and eventually the relationships in his life? Good Night starts off with the snoring of Mohan. As you watch the film, you get so used to the sound, that every time, you hear it, you start laughing. Mohan has already lost a girl he was attracted to because of his snoring. He is cautious, but this is a problem beyond his control. He has faced humiliation and been shamed for it throughout his life. However, all these issues are dealt with by well-written comedy sequences, which will leave you in splits. Be it Mohan’s antics or his caring nature or his relationship with Anu, all the events bring a smile to your face. Director Vinayak Chandrasekaran’s screenplay in the first half is so solid that you never want it to end. You laugh, you fall in love with Mohan and Anu as they do with each other and you want only good things for them. Untiill.the snoring takes over. The second half of Good Night begins when the snoring affects Anu physically. The fights between the couple, the strain in their relationship and the problems are shown in a convincing manner. Good Night is all about relationships. At the centre of the relationship might be Anu and Mohan, but Maha-Ramesh and Thatha-Paati equally make the film. These two couples show us what an equal partnership looks like. They question patriarchy and set relationship goals. Manikandan is terrific as Mohan. He makes you fall in love with him when he is silly and cute. He also makes you angry at him when he directs his emotions at his partner, Anu. Similarly, Meetha as the reserved Anu, who carries childhood trauma, is brilliant in the film. Ramesh Thilak and Raichel prove why they are seasoned performers as they depict roles of a couple, who are being scrutinised for not having a baby. Koysalya Natrajan and Balaji Shakthivel’s performances will remind you of your grandparents. Where Good Night falters is when it takes a TV-serial approach in the second half. The drama gets melodramatic and the characters don’t get a convincing redemption. However, the film is high on comedy and emotions. Sean Roldan’s music and Jayanth Sethu Mathavan’s cinematography complement the film’s tone. Good Night is a feel-good film that has its heart in the right place. With a solid script and terrific performances, this is a film to be treasured.Read more