Ramesh is right when he says that “Crazy Kutumba” is inspired by the Marathi film “De Dhakka” - the small changes do not alter the story too much. But it also pays obeisance to “Little Miss Sunshine” and to Toni Collette, in particular.
Sanatani (Sumathi) is the anchor here, without appearing to be so. Brimming with interesting possibilities, this road drama spreads the evergreen message of human triumph over adversity while lightly nudging the ‘industry’ that dance shows and other competitions have turned into these days.
With other roles also clambering for some weightage, Sumathi’s character has little room. Indeed, the film appears to meander and sentiment makes a grating entry by intermission. Post intermission, the film plods along resolutely, helped by dialogues that allow only a whiff of the Uttara Karnataka flavour.
Ramesh as the sixth-pass genius, husband, disgruntled son and doting father is good. His attempt at learning a different dialect is praiseworthy. Anant Nag, the grizzled, liquor guzzling patriarch caresses each word lovingly. Rajnikant and Vijaykumar provide most of the lighter moments in the film. Baby Nityashree’s innocent look blends in.
Experimentation is evident in Ricky Kej’s music but does not provide momentum. But Sanatani, the glam doll who has transformed into a pucca, suffering housewife is the ace in this pack of cards. There is a lesson here for her colleagues, makes use of eyes and body language with telling impact in a whittled down character. “Crazy Kutumba” is not exemplary stuff but not bad either.