A complicated story with too many twists and sub-plots makes up '18 Vayasu'. As against the title, it is no adolescent love story or candy floss romance. But '18 Vayasu' is a bumpy ride that speaks about a traumatised youngster. Lot was expected from Johnny and director Panneerselvam after their 'Renigunta'. They have come together again to give a movie that is seemingly inspired by Selvaraghavan's style.
Johnny plays a tricky role while newcomer Gayathri, Yuvarani and Rohini are there to add some suspense elements. At places, the movie seems to go long stretching for some extra effect. Johnny plays Karthi, a mentally disturbed youth. He gives right expressions but had his character well-etched, the end product would have have been more catchy. Gayathri has a nice screen presence and utilises the opportunity well.
The movie is about Karthi (Johnny) who develops psychological disorder after seeing his father committing suicide. He displays the characteristics of any animal he comes across, when he is anxious or under pressure. As he grows up, he meets Gayathri, an orphan. Gayathri is harassed by her caretaker. Karthi is ill-treated by his mother. Also her life with her paramour affects him a lot. It is all set for Karthi and Gayathri to get wedlocked.
One devastating day, Karthi kills his mother. Gayathri gets shocked when she comes to know about it. She decides to fly from her lover, who runs away from the hands of law. Enters Dr Suchithra (Rohini). Whether Karthi succeeds in winning back Gayathri's love is what the film is all about. Paneerselvam has tried to balance the act, but goes tedious at many places. At times, the film goes away from main plot.
The highlight is Dinesh-Charles Bosco's music. The movie is well-begun, and half-done.