The story revolves around a group of ten friends from a small industrial town called Manjummel near Kochi. They are a close-knit, rowdy, and fun-loving group known locally as the "Manjummel Boys." In 2006, they plan a trip to the scenic hill station of Kodaikanal (Kodi) to escape their mundane lives and celebrate a wedding engagement.
The "Sumala" phenomenon in Tamil cinema circles is driven by several factors:
The narrative of Sumala centers on themes of identity, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships within a specific cultural milieu. While the plot follows a familiar trajectory of a protagonist overcoming odds, the screenplay introduces several layers that challenge conventional tropes. The dialogue, rooted in regional dialects, adds an authentic flavor to the proceedings, making the characters feel lived-in and relatable. The storytelling relies heavily on character development, ensuring that the audience is emotionally invested in the journey of the lead figures.