An elopement is at the heart of Journey of Love 18+, but the one thing that stands out is the lack of chemistry between the lead pair Akhil (Naslen K Gafoor) and Athira (Meenakshi). This has much to do with how their whole love story is compressed into one song sequence right at the beginning, while the rest of the movie is one lengthy chronicle of their elopement, right from the extensive planning and even the struggles to get their wedding attire and jewellery.
During this phase, Akhil obviously spends more time with his two close friends, who seem to be ready to jump into any danger with him. The chemistry between the friends manages to some extent to paper over the lack of the same between the couple. As if echoing the thoughts of the audience, Akhil asks her, “Are you running away with me because you love me, or because you are angry with your father?”
Arun. D. Jose, who made his debut with Jo & Jo last year, yet again attempts to create a plot out of nothingness in 18+, along with co-writer Raveesh Nath. While the former was written around an anonymous love letter, in the latter, everything revolves around an elopement. The sheer lack of material to sustain the narrative is painfully evident at some points, while at others, the exuberance of the predominantly young cast carries the day for the movie.
