12B

12B is an ambitious Tamil film directed by Jeeva and starring a trio of talent with Shaam, Jyothika, and Simran in vital roles. The film '12B' debuted in 2001 serves as a compelling take on the concept of parallel timelines, an idea that several films in Hollywood have explored, but a first for Tamil cinema.

A major highlight of the film is the narrative structure which is not linear. Instead, we experience as the concept of parallel universes is implemented to tell the story. The film explores two different scenarios that hinge on the same event. The event here is the protagonist attempting to catch a bus - number 12B. The narrative splits into two streams from this point, showing the audience two drastically different versions of the protagonist's life, depending on whether he catches the bus or not.

The film's story questions fate and destiny's role in shaping a person's life, as the protagonist living two starkly different lives based on that simple event. This technique keeps viewers engaged as they explore two universes alongside the characters, adding depth to the characters, as well as to the narrative.

The charming Shaam takes on the lead role of Shiva, making a memorable debut. It’s his decisions that become the crux of the story, creating parallel timelines. The choices he makes decide the direction of his life, spinning fascinating narratives out of mundane decisions and making viewers ponder over the idea of fate and choices.

Jyothika and Simran take on the roles of the two women who become part of Shiva's life in his two alternate realities. Their performances as Anjali and Chitra only serve to enhance the plot. Jyothika, a perennial fan-favorite, breathes life into Anjali’s role, a vibrant warrior of a woman, and in a parallel universe, she is Shiva's love interest.

Simran, on the other hand, plays the role of Chitra, a more mature and family-oriented woman who appears as Shiva's life partner in another life. As Chitra, Simran delivers another impeccable performance, silent and poignant in her emotion-driven role.

The film seamlessly weaves these characters' lives in the two parallel universes that hinge on Shiva's decisions. The director, Jeeva, has put an effort to create a distinction between the two lives by varying the color schemes. The world where Shiva catches the bus is more colorful and cheerful, whereas the world where he misses the bus is more somber.

The music, scored by the musician trio of Harris Jayaraj, is an essential part of the film as it complements the narrative and enhances the emotional value of several pivotal scenes. Songs like "Love pannu" and "Poove Vaai Pesum" have become listener's favorites.

In addition to this, the screenplay and cinematography also stand out, enhancing the viewing experience by delivering visually-enticing frames that capture the essence of the characters’ lives, the city they live in, and the emotions they encounter. Each scene is designed with intricacy and attention to detail, which further brings the narrative to life and connects the audience to the characters and their experiences.

12B isn’t just a love story or a drama film; it explores the 'what ifs' in life. The movie encourages viewers to appreciate the intricate connections between choice and consequence, the power of decisions, the grace of coincidence, and the profound mystery of life.

Overall, 12B is a movie that’s perfect for those who are into complex narratives and thought-provoking themes, peppered with a dash of romance and drama. With the superb performances of Shaam, Jyothika, and Simran, the movie makes for an engaging watch that will leave the viewers pondering over their own life decisions long after the credits roll.