“Sumo” Movie Review
A Heartwarming Tale with a Gentle Touch
Sumo brings a refreshing and heartfelt story to the screen, led by the charismatic Yoshinori Tashiro, who perfectly embodies the role of Ganesh—a sumo wrestler who mysteriously finds himself on the shores of Chennai. Tashiro, with his genuine presence and real-life experience in the sport, brings authenticity and depth to his performance, making Ganesh an endearing and memorable character.
The film explores Ganesh’s journey as he navigates life in a foreign land, forging bonds with locals like Shiva (played with trademark ease and humor), who become unlikely companions in his quest to return to Japan and reclaim his title. The narrative, though somewhat familiar, is elevated by the emotional core that begins to unfold in the second half. Themes of friendship, resilience, and cross-cultural connection are gently woven into the storyline, providing moments of heartfelt warmth.
While the screenplay treads a fairly predictable path, it maintains an uplifting tone throughout. The initial humor—driven by the culture clash and Shiva’s lively antics—offers lighthearted entertainment, even if it doesn’t always hit the mark. However, the emotional beats later in the film provide satisfying depth and resonance.
The wrestling scenes are impressively executed, thanks in large part to Tashiro’s background, and the use of real match footage adds a layer of realism. Though the Japan segments could have benefited from more immersive storytelling, they still contribute to the film’s overall charm.
The music is pleasant and the concise runtime keeps the pacing steady, making it an easy and enjoyable watch. Sumo may not break new ground, but it succeeds as a feel-good film with a big heart. At its core, it’s a celebration of connection across cultures, perseverance through adversity, and the kindness of strangers—making it a worthy pick for those seeking a warm, uplifting cinematic experience.
Cast: Shiva Priya Anand Yoshinori Tashiro ‘Yogi’ Babu Satish ‘VTV’ Ganesh ‘Nizhalgal’ Ravi Suresh Chakravrthy Chetan Sreenath Besant Ravi and others.
Produced by : Ishari K Ganesh Production Company: Vels Film International Limited
Story – Direction : S. P. Hosimin
3.5/5
PRO : Riaz K Ahmed, Paras Riyaz
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