“Ramam Raghavam” Review – A Bold Yet Uneven Drama About Redemption and Ruin

Introduction: A Film with Heart, But Lacking Cohesion

“Ramam Raghavam,” directed by debutant Dhanraj Koranani, attempts to tackle the weighty themes of generational trauma, emotional estrangement, and the complex bond between father and son. While the film aspires to deliver a morally grey narrative that defies easy answers, its execution falters under the pressure of its own ambitions. What could have been a searing character study ends up feeling rushed, occasionally superficial, and emotionally fragmented.

A Protagonist You Struggle to Empathize With

From the outset, Raghava (played by Dhanraj Koranani himself) is a difficult character to root for. We meet him at a low point in life, and instead of witnessing any redemptive arc, we see him sink deeper into a plan to defy his father. Despite receiving love in his early years, there’s little clarity on what fractured his relationship with his righteous father Ramam (Samuthirakani). The absence of emotional context makes it harder for the audience to understand or sympathize with his choices.

This lack of clarity is perhaps the film’s biggest missed opportunity. We’re dropped into the middle of a story with no gradual buildup. As a result, we’re left piecing together the characters’ emotional histories with too few hints.

Fast Pacing Meets Underdeveloped Subplots

While the first half moves swiftly, it sacrifices narrative depth. The brief romantic subplot with Varsha (Mokksha) is refreshingly honest, yet abruptly abandoned. Raghava’s chaotic trajectory continues, but the lack of emotional buildup makes his decisions feel more frustrating than tragic.

Supporting characters like Deva (Harish Uthaman) bring potential depth, showing vulnerability and loyalty, but like many elements in the film, they remain underexplored. The film constantly hints at layered personalities, but doesn’t give them enough screen time to breathe.

The Core Conflict Lacks Emotional Foundation

“Ramam Raghavam” suffers most from not fully exploring the central emotional rift: What truly drove Ramam and Raghava apart? When did the father lose hope in his son, and why did Raghava turn so bitter? These are essential questions the film never answers, which robs it of the emotional impact it aims for. Instead of unfolding organically, the conflict feels forced, leaving the audience disconnected from the central tension.

Performances: A Mixed Bag

Dhanraj impresses in several scenes, especially when portraying Raghava’s inner turmoil, but his performance sometimes lacks the refinement a more experienced actor might bring. Samuthirakani, meanwhile, delivers a quietly powerful performance, embodying the moral compass of the story. Pramodini, in a smaller role, adds emotional weight during key scenes.

Visuals, Tone, and Direction

The film benefits from its intimate, small-scale setting—almost entirely revolving around a single household. This tight focus enhances the emotional tension. Dhanraj shows promise as a director, especially in moments where restraint and subtlety are required. However, loud background music and a few over-dramatized sequences dilute the overall impact.

Climactic Redemption and Reflection

The final segment of the film is where “Ramam Raghavam” finds its voice again. A shocking climax involving themes of both death and liberation manages to stir deep emotions. It’s here that the film shines—offering a somber meditation on the pain of life, the weight of expectations, and the need for redemption, even if it’s too late.

But the final emotional punch also serves as a bittersweet reminder: this story had the potential to be so much more.

Final Verdict: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

Pros:

• Bold, morally complex premise

• Strong performances by Samuthirakani and Harish Uthaman

• Emotionally gripping climax

Cons:

• Lack of character backstory and emotional buildup

• Underutilized supporting characters

• Uneven pacing and shallow writing in parts