Average Ambili review: Karikku Fliq’s latest mini-series is not-so-average

Story: 

The plot of the mini-series directed by Adithyan Chandrashekar, revolves around a youngster Ambili (Arsha Baiju), who’s been bullied as a child for being average in academic and non-academic activities at school. Though Ambili has ambitions and wishes to do something really thoughtful, she doesn’t get any job for the same reason - being ‘average’ even at job interviews. The storyline continues to follow Ambili and some unexpected events she faces in her so-called ‘average’ life.

Review: 

The series stands out for the subject it has chosen and its realistic portrayal. It underlines and speaks about the unfair system which cannot accept mediocracy and always celebrates ‘extraordinary’. Ambili is a personification of this culture of the society, and she brings out how hard it is to live that way. 

The scripting and Arsha’s performance as a helpless girl are exemplary. There are many instances where you feel her helplessness and empathise with her. She is a not-so-active person, but she is neither silent nor submissive. She goes against the stereotypes chained to her, unlike her mother and elder sister. She bravely replies back when she gets a marriage prospect and the guy says he will ‘allow’ her to work even after marriage. Ambili reacts to it quickly with a disgusted face. 

A series like this is essential in today’s society to ignite the talk of mediocracy. On one hand, students who get excellent marks are considered special, while the others are bullied for not meeting the expectations of earning medals and above 90 per cent marks in academics. The trauma of being bullied affects children when they grow up. Ambili shows that it is alright to be ordinary and mediocre, and all that matters is one’s freedom and happiness about being oneself. She also teaches everyone to be opinionated and to stick to a decision about anything and everything in life. 

The performance of the cast is one of the highlights of the series, apart from its subject that is rarely chosen by filmmakers. From the central character to the supporting characters, all the actors have portrayed their characters realistically. The series also has great cinematography, which keeps the audience hooked.

Verdict:

The series is worth a watch for its subject and great performances by the actors. Only five episodes of the series are out yet, and it has already won our hearts.

(The mini-series is available to stream on Karikku Fliq)