Ranking all Modern Love Chennai episodes from least to most impressive

The brilliance of Modern Love: Chennai lies not only in the individual films but also in the cohesive narrative that emerges from their interplay. The mosaic of stories fits together so wonderfully, showcasing the depth and diversity of emotions, relationships, and experiences that exist within the fabric of Chennai's modern society. Each film serves as a vibrant piece of the puzzle, offering unique perspectives on love, life, and human connections.

What sets Modern Love: Chennai apart from other anthologies is the collective impact of the talented filmmakers involved. Their distinctive voices and storytelling approaches influence one another, creating a rich and immersive tapestry that transcends the boundaries of individual narratives.

Candid Review | Modern Love Chennai: A captivating anthology of love and relationships

It is with great confidence that we assert that Modern Love: Chennai stands among the finest anthologies ever crafted in Tamil cinema. However, upon closer examination, one cannot help but notice the varying degrees of excellence that elevate certain segments above others. 

6) Margazhi:

It's a simple story of a teenage girl who is going through emotional turmoil. Jasmine is struggling to come to terms with the divorce of her parents. Instead of dealing with the unpleasant reality, she chooses to tune out the world and get lost in beautiful compositions by maestro Ilaiyaraaja. But, her dormant emotions and interest to pay attention to the reality of life wake up with the arrival of a young boy. The movie doesn't takes us beyond what we already know. And director Akshay Sundher and writer Balaji Tharaneetharan are aware of this fact. Hence, they infuse the movie with a sense of nostalgia and the innocence of its lead cast. It's a pleasant watch. 

5) Imaigal

TJ Bhanu shines in this compelling short film that explores the challenges faced by a couple amid the looming darkness in their relationship. Her presence on screen is mesmerising, captivating our attention from start to finish. Imaigal tells the story of Devi, a woman battling retinal degeneration, gradually losing her sight. With only a decade left before complete blindness, Devi sets out to embrace life fully, including marriage, family, and world travels. However, life takes an unexpected turn after the arrival of a baby, trapping her in the mundane routine while her husband struggles with his job. Bhanu delivers a poignant and empathetic performance, embodying the struggles and resilience of a woman confronted with harsh realities while seeking reasons to live and find joy. Director Balaji Sakthivel recognizes Bhanu's captivating portrayal, leaving us with a beautiful portrait that captures the essence of Devi's character.

4) Lalagunda Bommaigal:

Directed by Raju Murugan, Lalagunda Bommaigal offers a poignant perspective on the complexities of love and the challenges that accompany it. In a society where trust is scarce and the concept of romance feels both exaggerated and significant, the film delves deep into the lives of its protagonists, unravelling their emotional journeys. At its core, Lalagunda Bommaigal examines the idea that sometimes, what we seek is already within our reach. It takes viewers on an introspective and heartfelt ride as it explores the themes of love, resilience, self-discovery, and a touch of politics. Among the anthology's offerings, this film stands out for its subtle political undertones, adding an extra layer of depth to the narrative. The story revolves around Shobha (Sri Gouri Priya), a woman whose heart is shattered when her boyfriend abandons her upon discovering her pregnancy. Determined to move forward, Shobha makes the difficult decision to undergo an abortion and resolves to steer clear of romantic entanglements. However, love has a way of finding us when we least expect it.

3) Kaadhal Enbadhu Kannula Heart Irukkura Emoji:

In this delightful romantic comedy, Mallika (Ritu Varma), brought to life by director Krishnakumar Ramakumar and writer Reshma Ghatala, embodies the spirit of grand romance. However, just like Shobha in Lalagunda Bommaigal, her dreams are often shattered by life's harsh realities. Mallika's perception of an ideal partner is heavily influenced by Tamil cinema. Yet, her romantic bubble bursts when confronted with the truth. Even film critic Bardwaj Rangan makes an appearance, dispelling the illusions of love perpetuated by movies. Undeterred, Mallika refuses to give up on her quest for love, adapting her approach while keeping her ultimate goal intact.

2) Paravai Kootil Vaazhum Maangal:

In this thought-provoking film, veteran filmmaker Bharathiraja showcases his ability to resonate with contemporary audiences. It delves deep into the complexities of relationships and the profound notion of finding love where we least expect it. The characters navigate life's challenges with grace and maturity, allowing viewers to form a profound connection with their struggles and dilemmas. At times, the film pushes the boundaries of believability as the characters defy our expectations by avoiding emotional outbursts typically seen in such circumstances. Remya Nambeesan's portrayal of Revathi exemplifies this subversion, negotiating a graceful exit from an unhappy marriage. The movie also challenges social stigmas as the characters prioritise personal and emotional well-being over societal judgments.

1) Ninaivo Oru Paravai:

Filmmaker Thiagarajan Kumararaja, who put together this whole anthology, saves the best for the last. As the final instalment of the anthology, it takes storytelling to new heights by defying conventional narrative rules and challenging the minds of its viewers. What sets Ninaivo Oru Paravai apart and makes it the crown jewel of the anthology is its ability to push the boundaries of storytelling. The film immerses the audience in a complex and ever-repeating cycle of love and heartbreak, much like its lead couple, Sam and K. Their journey becomes an allegory for the perpetual nature of life itself, where love is lost and found, only to be lost again, in an endless loop. The beauty of Ninaivo Oru Paravai lies in its ability to blur the lines between imagination and reality. As the audience follows Sam and K's tumultuous journey, they are kept on their toes, constantly questioning the nature of their experiences. Is this story unfolding in the past or the present? Are these events a figment of someone's imagination, or are they tangible moments experienced by the characters? The film skillfully challenges our perception of time and reality, leaving us captivated and intrigued. Through its unique narrative approach, Ninaivo Oru Paravai prompts us to question the boundaries between dreams, memories, and the tangible world.