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Appa is a Tamil film directed by Samuthirakani, released in 2016. The movie tells the story of how a father's unconditional love and guidance can make a positive impact on a child's life, regardless of their age or background. Appa portrays how fatherhood is not only about parenthood but also about guiding and shaping the future of their children, even in the toughest circumstances.

The movie is a realistic depiction of the struggles of ordinary people, predominantly in rural areas. It portrays the journey of three teenagers - two girls, Gowri and Kani, and a boy, Nagaraj, who come from different socio-economic backgrounds. Despite their differences, they all face similar issues in their lives - pressure to excel academically, a lack of support from their parents, and numerous societal expectations. They all find solace in their shared experiences and come to rely on each other for support.

Appa showcases how every child can benefit from a father's love and guidance, regardless of whether or not they are biologically related. The main character, Dayalan, played by Samuthirakani, is a teacher who leads by example, in his classrooms and in his home. He is a compassionate husband and father to his two daughters, Gowri and Kani. But the heart of the movie revolves around his affectionate relationship with his non-biological son, Nagaraj.

Nagaraj, played by Namo Narayana, is a teenager from a poor family, who has a strained relationship with his abusive and uncaring father. He feels he has no one to turn to for help, until Dayalan takes him under his wing. Dayalan becomes a father figure to Nagaraj and takes on the responsibility of mentoring him, guiding him to make the right decisions and helping him realise his potential.

The bond between Dayalan and Nagaraj is the highlight of the film, as it portrays how the love of a father can transform the life of a child. It is evident in the way Dayalan constantly supports Nagaraj, nurturing and encouraging him to follow his dreams. However, the film does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of life, as Nagaraj faces many obstacles on his journey to fulfil his potential. Nevertheless, their relationship proves that with hard work and determination, even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome.

Preethi Christina Paul and Gabriella Charlton play the roles of Gowri and Kani, respectively. They represent the struggles of the modern-day teenager, battling the expectations of their families, peers and the society at large. Gowri comes from a middle-class family where her overbearing father pressures her to excel in academics. Kani, on the other hand, is from a wealthy family and struggles with depression and the overbearing expectations of her parents.

The film also delves into the issue of mental health, which is still considered a social taboo among many Indian communities. The portrayal of Kani's depression, the way in which she battles it, and the way in which her friends rally and support her is a poignant part of the narrative.

Appa is not just a movie, but a social commentary on parenting, the education system and modern-day pressures on teenagers. It shows how, as members of society, we can make a positive impact on young lives by guiding and supporting them. It also highlights the importance of mental health awareness and how it is essential to support each other through difficult times.

Overall, Appa is an inspiring movie that showcases the importance of fatherhood and the transformative effect it can have on the lives of children. It is an emotionally charged, thought-provoking film that will resonate with audiences transcending cultures and borders. It is a reminder of the profound impact that parents, teachers, and anyone in a position of influence can have on young lives.