Communist Pacha Adhava Appa

Ashif Kakkodi’s writing jumps between ideas, never driving any of them home with conviction. Wahid’s growth as a character also leaves a lot to be desired, as does Zakariya’s stiff acting with consistently stoic expressions. By the time Wahid learns his lesson, we are past caring. Even the cricket, the supposed heart of the film, feels lifeless. Matches escalate into ego-driven spats, but the tension never quite translates into riveting drama. Even at just two hours, the film drags. Its attempt to cover so many issues makes it feel messy and unfocused. Unlike last year’s Tamil gem, Lubber Pandhu, which tackled similar touchy topics with finesse and heart, Communist Pacha Adhava Appa seems content to meander, its ideas never landing a decisive blow.