On February 21, 2025, Dhanush's latest directorial venture, 'Nilavuku Enmel Ennadi Kobam' (NEEK), hit theatres to mixed reviews, marking his return to the romantic comedy genre after the more intense action drama, 'Raayan.' This film, which involves themes of young love and heartbreak, features newcomers Pavish Narayan and Anikha Surendran, and aims to connect with the Gen Z audience.
The story follows the life of Prabhu (Pavish), who, after experiencing heartache from his previous relationship with Nila (Anikha), gets caught between his past and the new potential romance with Preethi (Priya Prakash Varrier) as his parents seek to arrange his marriage. The film portrays Prabhu's comedic yet emotional rollercoaster as he navigates attending Nila's wedding and reconnecting with both his past feelings and his new relationship.
Critics have described the plot as simple and lacking engaging surprises. According to several reviewers, the film falls victim to predictability and cliché, particularly when it shifts to its Goa backdrop, which detracts from the emotional weight intended for the romantic relationship. A critic from Deccan Chronicle remarked, "While the story of young lovers breaking up and trying to reunite may seem familiar, Dhanush infuses it with charm, humor, and heartfelt emotions." Many felt the character dynamics failed to capture the audience, with the lead pair’s romance lacking the necessary excitement and depth.
Despite the lack of engaging romantic chemistry, the supporting performances have garnered attention. Mathew Thomas, who plays Prabhu's friend Rajesh, served as the film's standout performer. Critics noted how his comedic timing and character offered much-needed relief from the lead's lackluster relationship. Reports from The Hindu highlighted how Thomas's portrayal "stands out" among the younger cast, indicating Dhanush's careful selection of actors who complement the contemporary feel of the story.
Audience reactions echoed similar sentiments, as viewers took to social media to express mixed feelings about the film's pacing and scriptwriting. Some appreciated the comedic moments, especially those supplied by Thomas, and enjoyed the film's light-hearted treatment of common relationship themes. "A clean teen rom-com with a fun and relatable story. Dhanush keeps it simple," tweeted one viewer, summarizing the sentiment many echoed after viewing the film.
Although the film struggles with its narrative, certain elements, such as G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music and Leon Britto’s cinematography, were praised for enhancing the overall experience. The songs reportedly add vibrant appeal, with several sequences visually enchanting, which acted as strong points amid the film’s narrative shortcomings. One critic pointed out, "The music and songs by GV Prakash are apt for this movie," contributing to its charm.
While some reviews pointed toward the film’s flaws, they also acknowledged its ability to charm viewers and engage audiences through its humor and the exploration of youthful emotions. This suggests the film has found its niche among younger audiences searching for light entertainment rather than deep storytelling. Hindustan Times noted, "All in all, Dhanush's NEEK is an engaging time-pass film, something Gen Z will absolutely relate to." The essence of the film lingered on the exploration of modern relationships, breakups, and the whimsical nature of love and friendship.
Despite mixed reviews, 'Nilavuku Enmel Ennadi Kobam' has made its mark, showcasing Dhanush's ability to tread different genres. Nevertheless, the film has left some critiques about its narrative structure and character depth. While it may lack the finesse expected from Dhanush after his earlier works, it stands as yet another chapter showcasing his directorial evolution. One reviewer concluded, "Dhanush’s NEEK might be his weakest directorial, but it has enough to show glimpses of his prowess as a filmmaker." Even with its undeniable shortcomings, the film promises moments of genuine laughter and relatable situations, keeping audiences entertained and engaged.