The plot is engaging, and the side characters are interesting, but then Mamata barges into every frame with exaggerated expressions and forced plot twists that are more cringe than captivating. I am not sure how much the audience would agree, but for the first time, you have an actor whose pain and poverty don't move you. You'd rather enjoy Chhaya's irrelevant authenticity over Divya's fake Hinglish accent. The worst part? You're paying for this absurdity, and you can't fast forward to the next scene. Mamata's constant flip-flop between hero and anti-hero is neither daring nor entertaining. There are moments when you actually find yourself rooting for the villain because at least hes believable.
Divya Nair of Rediff.com gave 3.5 stars out of 5 and stated that "In just five tightly packed episodes, Search: The Naina Murder Case takes you through a whirlwind of theories, emotions and shocking revelations, making it a compelling Indian crime drama."
With eight episodes of 30 minutes each, Thalaimai Seyalagam starts as a crafty thriller that is intriguing in bits, thanks to its cast, who keep you invested in the flow of events, often promising to get better and bigger. But as the story progresses, the canvas gets too sketchy and dramatised. This not only limits the viewer's imagination but allows little scope for you to associate with the character's angst or concerns. The police investigation and court proceeding sequences are equally gullible, not just disappointing but also disqualifying the effort of the lead actors like Shriya and the supporting cast of Santhana Bharathi and Y G Mahendran. Then there are characters like Adithya Menon, who end up ruining your viewing pleasure with unnecessary show-off and commentary. The social message, which is delayed, is too obvious and rushed in its impact.
Divya Nair of Rediff.com rated 4/5 stars and observed "What makes Ullozhukku worth recommending is its ability to surrender to the surprises and yet grow with its characters."
