The movie poster, and scenes from the film.
Image: Facebook
Movie review: Youth
Cast: Ken Karunas, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Devadarshini, Anishma Anilkumar, Meenakshi Dinesh and Priyanshi Yadav
Director: Ken Karunas
Rating: 8.5/10
LET'S talk about the next generation of Tamil cinema – this one includes a child of the industry whose family never made headlines, but he certainly has from the first project he stepped into.
Born to actor-comedian Karunas, founded by Vetrimaaran and mentored by Dhanush, 25-year old Ken Karunas steps into his first directorial venture and lead role, Youth.
Youth follows the journey of Praveen (Karunas), a carefree 15‑year‑old schoolboy whose world revolves around friends, fun and his first innocent crush, until a series of impulsive decisions begin to shake the balance of his life. What starts as a colourful, light‑hearted teenage ride slowly turns emotional as misunderstandings in love, clashes with his strict father, and mistakes at school push him into situations he is unprepared for.
Forced to confront the consequences of his actions, Praveen experiences heartbreak, guilt and self‑realisation, ultimately learning the value of responsibility, empathy and family. The film captures the bitter-sweet transition from adolescence to maturity, blending humour, romance and sentiment into a relatable coming‑of‑age story.
Karunas is wonderful to watch – delivering a grounded performance capturing the confusion, impulsiveness and vulnerability of teenage life with an authenticity that carries the film. His innocence, comedic-timing and delivery of emotional scenes are major wins for the film.
Suraj Venjaramoodu brings emotional weight as the strict-yet-conflicted father, portraying frustration, fear and love with remarkable restraint.
Devadarshini complements him well as the empathetic mother, offering warmth and balance to the family dynamic – also serving as the emotional cornerstone for the family. Anishma Anilkumar shines as the schoolgirl who becomes the centre of Praveen’s emotional journey, playing her role with natural charm and innocence.
Meenakshi Dinesh and Priyanshi Yadav add youthful energy to the friend circle, keeping the lighter moments lively. Social media influencer Chinna Thamizha enhances the comedic aspect of the film as Praveen’s best friend. Together, the cast creates a believable teenage world, with performances that elevate even the film’s familiar beats.
GV Prakash Kumar’s music blends youthful energy and heartfelt melodies, also capturing the restless pulse of adolescence, playful in the lighter moments and deeply stirring when the story turns emotional. The songs carry GVP’s signature warmth and connect instantly with younger listeners.
Karunas in his first venture has surely surpassed expectations and rang the bell that the new generation of Tamil cinema is knocking on the door of stardom and authentic storytelling.
Youth began streaming on Netflix from April 16.