Exploring the Tensions of Urban Living in Tamil Film 'Parking'

A Comedic Yet Serious Take on Urban Conflicts

As with many conflicts, this one ignites unexpectedly over a seemingly trivial matter.

In suburban Chennai, software engineer Eshwar (played by Harish Kalyan) and his expectant wife Aathika (Indhuja Ravichandran) occupy the first floor of a residence. The ground floor tenants, led by Ilamparuthi (MS Bhaskar), initially welcome them until Eshwar purchases a car for Aathika's comfort, taking over the parking space designated for Ilamparuthi's motorcycle.

Feeling affronted by Eshwar's boldness, Ilamparuthi insists that Eshwar park his car outside. Eshwar argues that a car requires more space than a bike, prompting Ilamparuthi to acquire a car of his own.

The rivalry between the two men starts off humorously but soon escalates into a serious and ugly confrontation, affecting Aathika, Ilamparuthi's wife Selvi (Rama Rajendra), and their daughter Aparna (Prathana Nathan).

Ramkumar Balakrishnan's film Parking (2023) cleverly portrays this escalating competition, reflecting broader issues of limited living space in Indian cities. The Tamil movie is currently streaming on JioHotstar.

Balakrishnan's directorial debut has garnered three awards at the recent National Film Awards, including Best Tamil Film. He shared the Best Screenplay award with Sai Rajesh Neelam, the writer of Baby. Additionally, MS Bhaskar received the Best Supporting Actor award, sharing it with Vijayaraghavan for Pookkaalam.

The screenplay skillfully highlights the contrasts between Ilamparuthi, a traditional family man, and the ambitious Eshwar. While Bhaskar is known for his fairness, he reveals a different side, just as Eshwar's rationality falters.

Both MS Bhaskar and Harish Kalyan deliver impressive performances, maintaining their character arcs even as the film stretches on. Some plot developments may seem exaggerated, yet urban residents often exhibit peculiar behaviors to defend their perceived rights.

Despite some unnecessary length, Parking serves as a thoughtful exploration of stubbornness. The film's themes can be applied to various conflicts, illustrating how individuals struggle to share communal spaces.

Plans are underway to remake Parking in at least four Indian languages, including Hindi. Setting the story in Mumbai could lead to an even more chaotic scenario.