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"3" is a Tamil-language romantic-psychological thriller film released in 2012, which marked the directorial debut of Aishwarya R. Dhanush, who is also recognized for being the daughter of legendary Tamil actor Rajinikanth. The film prominently features renowned South Indian actor Dhanush alongside the talented actress Shruti Haasan. Notably, the film garnered significant attention partially due to Dhanush's viral song "Why This Kolaveri Di," which was included in the soundtrack.

The film's narrative is delicately structured into three distinct phases of the protagonists' lives, representing the title "3." It chronicles the complex and evolving relationship between the central characters Ram (played by Dhanush) and Janani (portrayed by Shruti Haasan), from their innocent high school romance through the challenging phases of their married life.

In the high school phase, the film offers a refreshing portrayal of adolescent love, filled with innocence and the excitement of young romance. The charm of first love is depicted through the sweet and tentative interaction between Ram and Janani, who are classmates. As we watch their friendship blossom into love, the film captures the nuances of teenage affection, peer pressure, and the social dynamics of school life with great sensitivity.

Transitioning from the buoyant phase of young love, the film delves into the complexities that emerge as the couple steps into adulthood. Their journey is not without its fair share of trials and tribulations; the narrative artfully explores the deeper emotional landscapes that Ram and Janani navigate as they uphold their commitment to each other in the face of life's unpredictabilities. The shift from the light-hearted to the intense is gradual yet striking, as the film presents a more mature look at relationships through the challenges of married life.

The third phase of the movie unexpectedly veers into the territory of a psychological thriller, layering the love story with elements of suspense and emotional intensity. The film takes a dramatic turn as it explores the darker aspects of the human psyche. Here, the storytelling becomes complex, dealing with themes such as mental health, love, and loss. The narrative examines the impact of psychological distress on relationships, provoking the audience to engage with the characters’ inner turmoil and personal struggles that are often hidden beneath the surface.

Dhanush delivers a gripping performance, showcasing exceptional versatility as he transition from playing a lovestruck teenager to a man grappling with the intricacies of adult life and mental illness. His prowess in embodying the character with such depth and emotional range adds significant weight to the film's impact. Shruti Haasan, as Janani, complements Dhanush's powerhouse performance with her own strong portrayal of a woman who must reconcile with her internal conflicts and the reality of her external circumstances. Together, they create a chemistry that feels genuine and evocative.

Throughout the film, the director skillfully balances tenderness with tension, effectively employing a non-linear narrative that weaves in and out of the past and present. This storytelling technique heightens the dramatic effect, keeping viewers engaged as they piece together the chronology of events that have led to the current state of the couple's life.

Cinematographically, the film is shot beautifully, with visuals capturing the raw, intense emotions as well as the subtler moments of joy and heartache. The musical score, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, is haunting and melodious, perfectly complementing the varying tones of the film. The soundtrack aids in transitioning the mood from light-hearted to heavy, maintaining the film's cohesiveness despite fluctuating themes.

While "3" is steeped in romance, it doesn't shy away from depicting the harsher realities of life and the profound impact that psychological issues can have on individuals and their loved ones. The film provokes thought on the seriousness of mental health and its stigma, particularly in the context of Indian society, pushing the audience to confront taboos and start conversations on these critical topics.

In conclusion, "3" is a poignant and thought-provoking film that takes the viewer through a rollercoaster of emotions, from the innocence of first love, through the complexities of adult relationships, to the depths of psychological struggle. Its success lies in its ability to blend genres, touching the heart with its romantic moments, stirring the mind with its psychological overtones, and leaving the audience both entertained and introspective about the challenging aspects of love and life.

3 is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.4.