‘35’ Film Review: A Touching Tribute to the Wonder of Childhood Exploration

The rich textures in the color grading, the smooth editing, and the authentic performances come together seamlessly, creating a delightful experience.

Debut director Nanda Kishore Emani has a remarkable talent for capturing the subtle details of everyday life. The team behind “35” has undoubtedly created a standout film that transcends mere weekend entertainment. In a time when movies often strive for grand spectacles, this film takes a thoughtful stroll through a spiritual landscape, focusing on the beauty of small moments. It’s refreshing to see a film about childhood that feels both poetic and straightforward.

Set in Tirupati, the story follows Prasad (Vishwadev Rachakonda) and Saraswati (Nivetha Thomas) as they navigate the challenges of parenting their young children. Their eleven-year-old son, Arun (Arundev Pothula), struggles to grasp the complexities of mathematics. The narrative centers on Saraswati, a mother who left school, as she helps her son tackle the subject while nurturing his curious nature.

It’s hard to encapsulate the film’s essence in just a few words, as its charm lies in the intricate details. The rich textures of the color grading, the smooth editing, and the authentic performances come together harmoniously, creating a sweet experience. This film doesn’t revolve around high-stakes drama or thrilling adventures; instead, it offers a glimpse into the everyday life of a small-town family. The cinematic portrayal of Telangana and Andhra regions is a rarity, and through cinematographer Niketh Bommi’s lens, Tirupati appears as a serene haven. Additionally, the captivating score by musician Vivek Sagar adds a layer of spiritual depth to the narrative.

The film weaves together various threads, including the relationship between husband and wife, the rivalry with a beloved mathematics teacher (played by Priyadarshi), friendships among peers, and the restlessness of childhood. The tender romance between Prasad and Saraswati adds to the film’s warmth and authenticity.

How fortunate we are to witness a performer like Nivetha Thomas. Her small, poignant moments as she moves through her home—playing chess with her son, preparing her husband, savoring the dishes she lovingly cooks, and engaging in her children’s curious questions—all while speaking in the Chittoor dialect, create truly artistic scenes. Nivetha transcends the typical discussions about actors from other languages working in Telugu cinema. She doesn’t just fulfill her role; she seems to reach for the stars. While it’s a joy to see her master this universe, the director enhances the experience with the addition of Arundev Pothula, who portrays Arun. Arun is a vibrant character reminiscent of those found in Telugu literature; he’s not just a struggling child, but a spirited, determined kid who faces life’s challenges with bravery, and that courage is rooted in his strong mother.

For a fleeting moment, I felt as if I were the only one in the crowded dark theater when Saraswati, the mother who has failed the tenth grade, explains to her restless son why zero—despite having no value—can determine the worth of a number simply by being next to it. The film excels at immersing viewers in the intricate world of children while also delivering meaningful insights. Children are always full of questions, absorbing everything around them. The delicate attention needed for a child to grow and learn life’s essentials is something many adults overlook. However, writer Nanda Kishore Emani explores this theme in a way that is beautifully profound. If you were to examine it closely…

Transporting audiences to a different realm is something many films manage to do. However, few can take you back to your own life and make you feel victorious in the process. It seems that this unique ability has been overlooked by many filmmakers lately. Yet, movies like “35” boldly emerge in these skeptical times to truly captivate you. Set aside some time to watch this film with your family, and you’ll find yourselves leaving the theater with smiles on your faces.

“35”

Cast: Nivetha Thomas, Priyadarshi Pulikonda, Vishwadev Rachakonda, Arundev Pothula

Director: Nanda Kishore Emani

Rating: 4/5