Kakkan

"Kakkan" (2023) is a Tamil Indian biographical drama movie directed by Prabhu Manikkam and produced by Joseph Baby, the lead actor who also produced it. The film is a remembrance of P. Kakkan's life and legacy as a politician and a freedom fighter for his honesty, simplicity, and service to mankind. With Kumar Manigandan featuring prominently too, the film traces the political and personal success of one of Tamil Nadu's most respected leaders.

The film begins with "Kakkan" hospitalized, in a coma. From there, the journey is laid out through flashbacks, and the viewer is taken through the various phases of his life.From having been a ferocious freedom fighter in his early years to acting as a Member of Parliament for Jawaharlal Nehru's administration (1952-1957), the movie documents his dedication to nation-building and social justice. Kakkan's relationship with K. Kamaraj and also his actions throughout the period when the Bhaktavatsalam government was in power are illustrated as being vital points of turning that defined his political life.

During the entire film, his period as President of the Tamil Nadu Congress and his service in the Tamil Nadu Public Works Department are portrayed. The script tries to depict his unselfish work, his strong beliefs, and the adversities he suffered in political life. However, rather than sticking to a wholly realistic biopic tone, the film veers more towards dramatised storytelling, thereby distancing itself somewhat from the type of depth that is customary in political biopics.

While the heart behind "Kakkan" is good and timely, the execution falls short in certain respects. Joseph Baby, playing the triple role of actor, writer, and producer, does not bring the depth and presence of the historical personality he is portraying. Still, the film provides a glimpse of the forgotten heritage of an honest public servant and serves as an introduction for people who are not familiar with the work of P. Kakkan.