Perusu (2025) English Subtitle - A Bizarre Funeral Sparks a Family’s Emotional Reunion

Perusu (2025) English Subtitle - A Bizarre Funeral Sparks a Family’s Emotional Reunion

Perusu (2025) English Subtitle - When Grief Meets Absurdity in the Most Unexpected Way

Perusu (transl. Elder) is a daringly different Tamil-language comedy-drama that hit theatres on 14 March 2025, directed by Ilango Ram. A remake of his own 2023 Sri Lankan film Tentigo, the film treads bold thematic ground with a quirky yet emotional narrative. Despite its positive critical reception, Perusu underperformed at the box office, though it has since gained attention for its unique premise and engaging characters.

The story centers around the funeral of an elderly man, where his two estranged sons, Durai (played by Vaibhav) and Saami (Sunil Reddy), are shocked to discover their father’s posthumous erection. What unfolds is a darkly comic and touching journey as they try to handle the awkward situation discreetly while confronting old wounds and revealing secrets about their father’s love life. This unusual starting point leads to a surprisingly emotional exploration of family dynamics, unspoken grief, and reconciliation.

Vaibhav and Sunil Reddy share compelling chemistry as the feuding brothers, blending humor and heartache with ease. Niharika NM, in her Tamil debut, brings freshness and spark to the screen, while Chandini Tamilarasan and Bala Saravanan provide strong support. The ever-entertaining Redin Kingsley and VTV Ganesh add comic relief in key moments.

Director Ilango Ram balances taboo-breaking comedy with heartfelt storytelling, showcasing his ability to mix Sri Lankan sensibilities with Tamil cinematic flair. The film’s dialogue—co-written with Balaji Jayaraman—blends sarcasm, irony, and sentiment effectively.

The technical aspects shine as well. Arun Raj’s music subtly complements the film’s unusual emotional beats, while Sathya Thilakam’s cinematography gives the film a natural, grounded aesthetic. Sooriya Kumaraguru’s editing keeps the pace lively, ensuring the film never drags despite its single-location majority.

While Perusu may not be a commercial juggernaut, its bold concept, stellar performances, and dark comedy make it a standout entry in 2025’s Tamil cinema. It’s a refreshing take on family, death, and dignity—with a generous dose of laughter.

--Perusu (2025) English Subtitle--