Some filmmakers switch from one genre to the other with ease and deliver hits, while others stick to their forte and reap the same result. Jithu Madhavan, who delivered two blockbusters 'Romancham' and 'Aavesham' is one from the latter group. His latest script for 'Painkili', directed by actor-turned-filmmaker Sreejith Babu, explores the dilemma of a young man, Suku, whose life goes topsy turvy after he returns from a trip to Coimbatore, in a quirky way.

'Painkili' shares the spirit of 'Aavesham' thanks to its characters, who are loud and often find themselves in difficult situations one after the other. However, this film does not celebrate friendship like Jithu's previous works. Instead, the setting is more family-oriented and set in a village where Suku runs a small shop with the help of his sidekick, played by Roshan Shahnavas. Suku is quite peculiar, occasionally bursting into a song or randomly scribbling some unappealing literature on Facebook. 

Friendship forms only one aspect of Painkili, which is overly situation-oriented. This overdependence sometimes affects the smooth flow of the film, making it less organic. The makers are too focused on ensuring that our lead guy has enough challenges in his way -- giving him one heartache after another -- that they forget to provide clarity on what is happening around him or to the characters who become part of his life. Though they go a little overboard with their element of humour, Jithu and Sreejith ensure they don't compromise on the fun.

The film is also performance-driven, with Sajin taking the cake. It's fun to watch Sajin, who played the much-loved Amban in 'Aavesham', turn the hero this time and shoulder the film with ease. Anaswara, however, who impressed us in 'Neru' and 'Rekhachithram' does not seem too comfortable in the character as it requires her to be a little too loud. The songs composed by Justin Varghese also brim with energy.

In short, 'Painkili' is no 'Aavesham' but promises quirky fun if it's your cup of tea.

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