Chithha (2023) Poster

(2023)

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8/10
One of the best Tamil films of the year! [+80%]
arungeorge1328 November 2023
The best thing about Chithha is how it handles the sensitive topic of child sexual abuse. It's not something anyone can sit down for, without trigger warnings, and when it unfolds on screen, I could sense S U Arun Kumar's evolution as a filmmaker. He uses the first act to establish an emotional connect with the lead characters - Ees (Siddharth), his girlfriend Sakthi (Nimisha Sajayan), his niece Sundari (Sahasra Shree), and sister-in-law (Anjali Nair). The writing is layered and takes you through the proceedings in no hurry. One devastating incident leads to a lot of physical and emotional scars, but before you've fully recovered from it, you're subjected to yet another.

The performances from all four key characters (plus the two friends of Ees') are top-notch. I did NOT see Siddharth in the film - I only saw Ees, Sundari's extremely loving and protective uncle. The little girls are fantastic too, making you smile at their adorable antics in the beginning, and later, effectively conveying the trauma of living (or having lived) through such a prolonged, abusive nightmare. Just when I began to wonder why Nimisha Sajayan signed up for this role (of a typical love interest), the writing lets her make a very bold statement in a scene that arrives close to the end. Of course, there are a few other moments as well, but this one leaves you the most affected. Arun Kumar also treats it with the urgency and tension of a thriller in the latter stages, making you want to know what happens at each juncture.

As opposed to the rest of the film, the finale takes some commercial liberties from both writing and performative standpoints. While I absolutely loved the way the director chose to end the film (i.e. When the director's card showed up), the tail-end sort of undoes that effort. All things considered, I'm glad Siddharth chose to fund and act in this venture. It's certainly going to fetch him a lot of acclamation, and all of it is deservedly so.

P. S. I couldn't help but hoot at the random and unexpected mass moment featuring the lady in the shared auto-rickshaw.
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9/10
An excellent and authentic film
tirukumarthiagarajah30 September 2023
Chittha is a brilliant film. It handles a very challenging and traumatising issue without dabbling in melodrama. Very honest and earnest performances by the cast! Absolutely loved the cinematography, the freshness in the scenes and the dialogues. Nothing felts forced.

I hope more and more people watch this film. Kudos to Siddharth as the protagonist- it's easily his best performance to-date. S. U. Arun Kumar proves that he can make Tamil films centred on highly emotional issues without resorting to the usual melodrama. The film broke my heart at various points but more importantly gave me some hope - hope that with more awareness, our children 'a future can be saved, redeemed and flourish.
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7/10
A gut-wrenching tale about child abuse!
chand-suhas4 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Eeswaran (Siddharth) is like a foster parent to his dead brother's child Sundari. Co-parenting her along with his sister-in-law. He is extremely protective of her and ensures to timely pick her up from school. One day, Sundari's friend Ponni is assaulted and Eeswaran is accused of the crime which takes a huge toll on him and his family. By the time he is proven to be innocent of the crime, a pedophile abducts Sundari. Will Sundari be saved from the monster and what impact this has on Eeswaran forms rest of the story.

S. U. Arun Kumar narrates a hard hitting tale where he firmly establishes the bond between uncle and his niece. He has taken over the responsibility of the household after his brother's death and the bonding with his sister-in-law is also superbly established. This is a family which has learnt to move on and how. But when the crisis arises through a monster, forcing this very family struggle to move on and this aspect is superbly captured. Chithha is a tough watch and the issue is carefully handled.

What didn't work for me was the entire vigilante angle which allowed it to take a few cinematic liberties in an already solid film which didn't required to. The real scene stealer being Nimisha Sajayan as Sakthi and her scene towards the end, sums it up perfectly. That entire scene and specifically her dialogues, hit so hard and the scene which followed after seems to be the perfect ending. In it's attempt at closing the revenge plot, the film only makes the police look incapable and the scenes came out too convenient. Barring this, the film is still a solid watch and kudos to Siddharth for backing this project.
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10/10
This is what a "TRUE CINEMA" is...!!!
PANDIAN1206213 October 2023
Deserved evenmore nationwide recognition and witnessed a standing ovation by the audience in cinema hall... Its tough responsibility for parents these days to care about their children gender biased... Siddharth needs a whole hearted appreciation in bringing awareness with these kind of films especially those scenes where he just sheds a drop of tear so do we cant hold our horses back... Nimisha gets a golden ticket in her debut she does a superb job...Kids sahasra & tasneem deserves an award for their exceptional performances... Director Arun kumar handles sensitive topic in a matured way thats not too disturbing brutally but constantly traumatizes audience scene by scene holding the intensity until the end... A must see movie of a life time...
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10/10
Regretted that I missed watch it on theatre
SrinivasChowdaryG28 November 2023
It was brilliant... Nothing else.. Everything in the movie was good and many things were addressed to take care of children... I was regretted that I missed it in theatre... Every character gave their best... In this type of movies the emotion should carry till end... The director and the actors didn't fail even at single frame... Every department had their best... Director shows a sensitive topic without any vulgarity and with perfect camera angles... The child acting was simply superb... She mesmerized and make our eyes wet with her acting... Rare films like these are golden pieces... Some movies will remain in heart, This movie is one of them... At last THANK YOU for this wonderful movie...
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All human beings should watch this movie
magebcaavc29 November 2023
The way they narrated the story is stunning. Literally I cried in the scene when sidharth found the girl and hold her tight to pampered her. This movie is not only dedicated for girl child parents. It's dedicated to each and every human who is living in this world to save the girl child. Please teach your daughters and sons to be protective and fearless. Teach them to say no the stranger's even the provide them their favourite one's. Nowadays gadgets are the worst enemy for every parents so kindly guide them to use wisely. And the climax scene where I need to give the directer standing awation for the dialogue "even now you want to kill the accused but not ready to ask me how i recovered from this" such a sensitive at and big shout sword words to the victims who are not having any idea to do next when it happens again to some dear one's again.
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10/10
We could call this movie as a "Pan Universe" movie. It reminds Amir Khan's Satyamavey Jayate. Thanks to Siddarth and all in the team on and off the screen. Truth Prevails.
maneckshawb29 September 2023
We could call this movie as a "Pan Universe" movie. It reminds Amir Khan's Satyamavey Jayate (about "Touch" episode) . Thanks to Siddarth and all in the team on and off the screen. This movie can be released in all States, It requires no dubbing. The director demonstrates "how to screenplay a sensitive subject ". This movie is a learning experience to all movie makers. Lesson to all men and women to learn about "how to teach their youngsters about 'Touch'. Even a man's honest behavior could turn bad in others' eyes. Siddarth deserves a big hug from every citizen for showing social responsibility. Truth Prevails.
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10/10
Must watch movie for all the parents and children
mcjesintha-442167 October 2023
Excellent story telling, casting, screenplay and performances. The movie was extremely engaging with power packed performances and relatable characters. It's a must watch movie to all the movie goers. Please go to the theatres and watch this movie. If we don't support such movies, then we are taking any responsibility for creating a better society and safe childhood/ environment for our children.

This is Siddharth's one of the career best performances and as a Producer he stands out for picking such a sensitive topic and supporting his crew. The child actors are mind blowing, wow, what an amazing performers. Everyone out there, please watch and support good movies.
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10/10
Best in recent times
sivaramanmet3 October 2023
Excellent movie!!!

Time to celebrate Chithha with Siddharth. Fine acting, outstanding storyline. Went deep each and every seconds in the movie. New frame of actors are there in the screen, good cast selection, would have been better if some songs are added in between the scenes.

Jai bhim of 2023! I couldn't find the better word than this. This movie to be celebrated in theaters better than this.

Siddharth is proving to the world on what kind of actor he is, which I felt it after Kaviyathalaivan!!

Hats off brother!! :))

Please continue with this kind of scripts!! Thanks a lot for you and your team.
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10/10
MUST WATCH WITH FAMILY IGNORE 18+ CERTIFICATE
nishanneymessi28 November 2023
The reason why i am saying this movie is very important for our society..Any age people must watch this movie especially younger females...It is important to educate our children about good and bad touch..Even if our dad or brother touch us in wrong way we need to address that issue..This movie emphasises about that in 1st half and 2nd half i cried when the small girls were abused by villain plenty not one character..SIDDARTH is a perfomer and i think this movie is one of the biggest blockbuster of the year and high rated movie by critics and audience which i think the love for this movie is surreal..Well done director and yes the female characters were good too i loved them so natural acting and well done team..Always protect our kids,females their safety is important..
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7/10
Nice movie with a good message
appusnikhil3 December 2023
I enjoyed this flick from Siddharth and the movie kept me very engaging till the end. The child who played 'Sundari' deserves an applause- she was great throughout the movie. Siddharth had a good role, which could have slipped from his hands easily in the movie, but he executed it perfectly.

It's good to see Nimisha Sajayan get a good start in Kollywood, she was incredible throughout but the real hero of the movie is the child actress who played the role 'Sundari'. She is the life of this film.

The production design was perfect and it did have an impact throughout the film.

I would have gone for an 8 or 9 stars but the last 30 minutes were not that smoothly executed. I guess the director rushed to wrap it up. This is easily noticeable in the film and the screenplay was a bit sloppy in the final moments. Keeping these things aside, this was a very nice film. Hope Siddharth(he was the producer of the movie) will take initiative in producing good films like this in the future.
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10/10
Good message
shaiknaseersep28 November 2023
"Chithha" is a cinematic gem that effortlessly weaves together elements of emotion, suspense, and cultural richness. Directed by a visionary storyteller, the movie takes the audience on an unforgettable journey through its captivating narrative and stellar performances.

The plot unfolds in a quaint village nestled amidst picturesque landscapes. The simplicity of the setting becomes the perfect canvas for the intricate storytelling that ensues. The narrative centers around the life of the protagonist, skillfully portrayed by the talented lead actor. His nuanced performance brings depth and authenticity to the character, making the audience empathize with the challenges and triumphs he faces.

One of the most commendable aspects of "Chithha" is its ability to seamlessly blend different genres. The movie masterfully combines elements of drama, romance, and suspense, creating a multifaceted experience for the viewers. As the plot unravels, the audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing moments of laughter, tears, and nail-biting anticipation.

The cinematography of "Chithha" is a visual treat. The director's keen eye for detail is evident in every frame, capturing the essence of the village life with breathtaking beauty. From the golden hues of the sun setting over the fields to the vibrant colors of the local festivities, each scene is a work of art that adds to the overall cinematic appeal.

The soundtrack of the movie deserves a special mention. The soul-stirring melodies not only complement the narrative but also serve as a powerful storytelling tool. The music effortlessly enhances the emotional impact of key scenes, leaving a lasting impression on the audience. It's a testament to the filmmakers' commitment to creating a holistic cinematic experience.

The supporting cast of "Chithha" delivers performances that are equally praiseworthy. Each actor brings a unique flavor to the narrative, contributing to the overall richness of the storytelling. The chemistry among the cast members feels genuine, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the film.

Beyond its entertainment value, "Chithha" also explores relevant social themes. The movie subtly addresses societal issues without being preachy, prompting viewers to reflect on the intricacies of human relationships and the dynamics of the community portrayed. It's a refreshing take on storytelling that goes beyond mere entertainment, offering audiences food for thought.

In terms of pacing, "Chithha" strikes a perfect balance. The narrative unfolds at a rhythm that keeps the audience engaged without feeling rushed. The director's ability to maintain suspense while allowing for character development is truly commendable. Each scene serves a purpose, contributing to the overall coherence of the storyline.

While "Chithha" has many strengths, it is not without minor flaws. There are moments where certain subplots could have been further explored to provide additional depth. However, these instances do not significantly detract from the overall impact of the film.

In conclusion, "Chithha" is a cinematic masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated. Its rich storytelling, coupled with exceptional performances and technical brilliance, elevates it to the ranks of timeless classics. The movie is a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema and serves as a shining example of how a well-crafted narrative can leave a lasting impression on its audience. "Chithha" is not just a movie; it's an experience that lingers in the hearts and minds of viewers long after the credits roll.
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7/10
Good attempt
neethaquarian29 November 2023
As a woman n a mother of two toddler girls, who is already petrified coz of the things my younger self faced, this movie scared me further. Just like most men, my husband too doesn't understand my fears. The movie looked half baked to me. Yes, we need to teach our children good touch and bad touch but we even need to teach them self defense in case they get stuck in an untoward situation. Full support should be given to the victim and our children should be able to trust us to tell us everything without fear of consequences. Two points noteworthy in the movie.

It's not ok that so many gals/woman get raped/molested on daily basis, most of which go unreported. Instead of men getting better all I see is men getting worse. Yes, some men do get blamed for wrong reasons but many are actual perverts.

The ending was unsatisfactory to me.
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3/10
Apart from Siddharth acting there is nothing inside the movie.
historyindiaai30 September 2023
Let me be honest with the review of this movie one thing that I loved about this movie is Siddharth performance, no doubt in it, but the main thing that is lagging in this whole movie is the content which is as usual routine nothing new in this and the screenplay is also same as of old movies it could be made better, a new way of storyline could be tried apart from routine story lines, hoping such kind of stories and such kind of narration won't continue on future looking forward for the best stories and some new way of telling the stories rather than following the old-fashioned or traditional fashion.
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10/10
Such an amazing movie
jituwipro30 November 2023
It was such a delight to watch this movie. Sid has emerged as an amazing director and producer concentrating the movie around such a sensitive topic. A must watch to educate folks around to avoid any such incidents. Movies like these need to be made in our industry to spread awareness. The movie will keep u on your toes all the time. Best movie of 2023 to watch. Not sure how much the movie might have earned in theater but am sure it will be watched much more in Hotstar. Started watching on a lonly day thinking will watch for an hr but ended up completing it on mobile data as couldn't wait to get connected to home internet to finish it.
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One of the best must watch movie of 2023
abhijithjsocial29 November 2023
The film proceeds through Eeaswaran's search for the disappearance of his brother's daughter, whom he raised as his own daughter, and the mystery surrounding it.

The film, which started as a family drama, changes the genre in a great way and sets the incidents to change the movie to crime and mystery. It is very haunting and engaging until the climax, and the film ends with an open ending for the audience.

Movie deals with sexual assault,trauma and how these things continue in our present society and the backlash of not providing proper education, guidance and awareness of these issues.

A must watch movie.

One of the greatest movie released in 2023.
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10/10
Never cried this much - Best Film ever
murukeshpnr2 December 2023
It's absolutely best film ever made in tamil cinema. Intense and Truthful. Great message and many scenes i cried loud. It's touched my heart. It deserves the best film of the decade. Great performance by all, especially Sidharth and the small girl sundari. Congratulations to all technicians to give best cinematic experience. It's great message to society and very men. Expected a climax where the reall psycho got his punishment in reall sense, but it was disappointing. Recommending every individual to see this movie and make sure every girl child or every girls got their safety and respect. Once again the best movie I ever seen in recent times...
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10/10
HANDS DOWN THE BEST MOVIE OF 2023
spoorthypavan13 October 2023
"STORY is something that is very important in every MOVIE" The script of chithha is just wow ,the writer has done such wonderful job in imagining it and the director has done an even better job in exciting it and the actors naturally portraying it .

Chithha is really the that every family should watch.

I was so thrilled to watch the kid's performances in the movie , they were so good every actors in this are so RAW and NATURAL which felt so heartwarming .

And also many many many credits to Siddarth for making such wonderful film and for bringing it on the big screen and for making something that is so out of the box .
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10/10
A heart whelming emotional thriller...!
vijaykarthickvk7 October 2023
Kudos to the director Mr. S. U. Arun Kumar, who previously proved himself in pannaiyarum padminiyum and sethupathi. Sindhubath was a disaster but it's a true comeback. Well written screenplay with many pressure builder scenes and beautiful character arcs. Technically it's a well made film. Especially Background score by chandrasekhar and stunning visuals by Balaji subramanyam. Performance by every actors was top notch, special note to those girls who played sundari and ponni respectively. The way Sidharth carried the film and this character was top notch. On a whole, I liked the way this movie was made as an emotional thirller. I wish the director would continue making films that trigger human emotions.
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10/10
An ACADEMY AWARD winning movie!
ahanauce12 December 2023
ONE OF THE BEST MOVIES IN RECENT TIMES.

Every single person involved in the project has done justice to this movie.

Take it from me, have seen multiple times how a lack of good direction and screenplay can do injustice to a really good story. But this movie defied it all!

Watched the Hindi version of this movie in Hotstar a couple of days ago and can't stop appreciating it since then. In awe of the director and the entire crew how they have beautifully handled such a sensitive issue. Siddharth is one of those rare and exceptional actors who have gone unappreciated and undervalued for a long time. Can't even imagine how difficult it must have been to portray both happiness and grief at the same time, but this man has done it! And God, that one particular scene is incredible!

The movie begins with a light-hearted note with usual things happening in their daily lives but the way in which the story eventually unfolds to its tragic peak, is such incredible. The incidents as shown in the movie sent jitters down my spine.

Hope this movie makes it to the Academy award nominations and also wins it because it really deserves the best!
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10/10
Gripping, heartfelt, emotional
pratyayj5 December 2023
No words fo all the actors who have been excellent. Script is fantastic. Siddharth shines so as Shakti. Both little girls have acted like pros. Police system has been given a positive angle as they are doing a fine job. This movie never bores. Simple people, simple characters, powerful punch of social narrtaive. HereHere songs are beautiful. Those people who know the love of paternal uncle would understand this movie. Those who consider their uncle to be second father should be proud of it. I liked every bit of the exemplary cinema. More power to Siddharth and jis future endeavors. This movie again proves that proper story line, simplistic portrayal of characters has value. Hats off!
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7/10
I have different thoughts about the ending!
SoumikBanerjee199620 February 2024
I detested the conclusion, unapologetically so, I was not pleased with how it wrapped up. While I comprehend the underlying message of the story, I found it challenging to come to terms with the final resolution, or lack thereof.

You know who I despise the most in this entire world? Who I harbour intense animosity towards? Child molesters: monstrous beings disguised as humans who represent the worst of our kind. Individuals who harm, assault, and leave lifelong scars on innocent children do not deserve any sympathy, nor an ounce of respect from any of us; all they merit is unimaginable suffering, unspeakable agony. Hang them, shoot them, mutilate them, I couldn't care less.

This world would be a better, safer place without such despicable creatures anyway.

As for the film, it presents a powerful narrative that sheds light on the atrocious acts committed against vulnerable children. The story also highlights the seriousness of false accusations and wrongful convictions. With skilled writing and a sincere direction that knew just how much to reveal and how much to imply, it made the viewing experience relatively less distressing as well as more accessible.

If only the ending resonated with me more, I would have been more generous.
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10/10
Chinna Movie Is an awesome movie
vijaydusi3 December 2023
This movie is really based on true incidents and please don't expect any story watch and you decide. Just an awesome movie it is.

Siddharth and kids have really acted well. Forget about the acting and understand the facts of the movie and it's a lesson to all the parents on how to educate the kids to report any sort of misbehaviour towards them or any kind of molestation.

Expecting a part 2 of this movie and I wish Siddharth not to give rights to OTT and let people come and watch in theatres. Please I request all the audience to go and watch this movie in theatres and this should also receive accolades like Baahubali and other movies.
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10/10
10/10 - One of the best in 2023
lovellh14 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
This year has been great for Kollywood as it delivered movies with solid stories and strong screenplay. Chithha is one of them.

"Chithha" is not just a movie, it represents a life. It raises awareness towards child sexual abuse and rape. I'd like to commend the director, Arun Kumar, for creating a film that delivers a strong message to society. The film portrays a beautiful dialogue that showcases the pain coming from the character Sakthi. Unlike typical movies, the hero doesn't hunt down and kill the villain, which makes it unique. This movie's success and impact is evident in the recent past."

Siddharth deserves praise for choosing this script and pouring his heart and soul into it. He carried the entire movie on his shoulders with the help of the crew. Siddharth's portrayal of different emotions is just amazing. He has proved that he is not just a chocolate boy anymore and he is a performer too. His expressions of joy with his family, his love for his niece, his pain when everyone blames him, his realization of the main problem, and the climax part are all remarkable. One particular scene where he shows the pain on his face while the little girl and her mom are talking about what is good touch and what is bad touch is a testament to his excellent performance in this movie. In summary, Siddharth has just nailed it!

The entire crew that acted in this movie deserves high praise, starting from Nimisha, Anjali, and the two little girls to the lady who was in the trishaw with the character Sundari. They have all played their parts to perfection, which is no easy feat considering the complexity of the script. Hats off to the movie maker for bringing life to these characters.

I would like to commend the magical work of the cinematographer Balaji Subramanyam as it gives life to the movie throughout. The songs of Dhibu Ninan Thomas are another strong pillar of this movie.

This movie is a must-watch for everyone. It has a huge impact that's hard to ignore. In an era where commercial movies and action scripts dominate the industry, Arun Kumar and Siddharth deserve a round of applause for creating an impactful and thought-provoking movie. Last year Gargi made a lot of impact and this year it is all about Chithha. (If you have not watched the movie Gargi, please go ahead and watch.
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10/10
Brilliant taking 👏 👌 👍
manishganganaboyina28 November 2023
Gripping story and screenplay, one of the Great movies in recent times!!

Everyone should watch this !!!!!!

Cinematography plays a crucial role in this film visual style and storytelling is just amazing . Delve into the camera work, lighting, photography, and framing, evaluating how these elements enhance or detract from the movie's overall impact. Cinematography supports the film's themes and emotions.

The director is the creative force behind a this film, responsible for shaping its vision and execution. Analyze the director's choices, considering their impact on the film's storytelling, pacing, and overall atmosphere.
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