Light House

The movie opens with a beautiful song about Udupi, highlighting its traditions and culture through stunning visuals. We are then introduced to a brother and sister duo, Ashoka (Achal Ganesh) and Pallavi (Apoorva Mala), around 10 and 12 years old, who share a warm and tender bond. The brother lovingly cares for his sister as she enjoys the breeze near the lighthouse beach. It’s gently revealed that the sister is blind and that they lost their parents in a tragic car accident. Now, they live with their uncle and aunt, who, unfortunately, treat them quite harshly—reminiscent of classic fairy tale villains. Despite their difficult circumstances, the children remain hopeful and positive, looking forward to a brighter future without bitterness.

The story then shifts to the local government Kannada-medium school. We meet the teachers and experience the supportive, nurturing environment of the school. The film thoughtfully sheds light on the challenges facing Kannada-medium government schools, such as declining student enrollment over the years. It captures many nostalgic moments that will resonate with anyone familiar with the bonds between teachers and students. There is also a special cameo by Pruthvi Ambar, all set against the backdrop of Ashok and his sister Pallavi’s sad journey. Ashok’s hard work to arrange eye surgery for his sister is a touching storyline that also highlights the importance of eye donation.

While the movie’s intentions are heartfelt, the acting often feels more like a stage performance than natural, realistic portrayals. The characters sometimes come across as overly dramatic rather than subtle or nuanced. The depiction of the evil aunt and the series of setbacks faced by 12-year-old Ashok can feel quite intense. For some viewers, watching one hardship after another happen to a young child may be difficult to sit through. However, the film is beautifully supported by its cinematography and music, which add warmth and depth throughout. The positive messages woven into the story are meaningful, even if they occasionally feel a little heavy-handed.

Review by - Susmita Sameera