Cast: Manchu Lakshmi, Aditya Om, Esther Norhana, Suhasini, Srijita Ghosh, Shiva Kanthamneni, Venkat Kiran, Satya Prakash, Sammeta Gandhi, Gemini Suresh, Delhi Rajeshwari, Harry Josh, Jabardasth Gaddam Naveen, and others.
Written and Directed by: Sanjeev Megoti
Music: Madhavi Saib
Cinematography: S.N. Harish
Editing: Pavan Shekhar Pasupuleti
Production Companies: Anvika Arts, AI (America India) Entertainment
Movies like ‘Ammoru’ and ‘Arundhati’ set a high bar in the Telugu fantasy genre. Since Arundhati, there hasn’t been a fantasy drama with a similar impact in Tollywood. Now, ‘Adiparvam,’ starring Manchu Lakshmi and directed by Sanjeev Megoti, steps into that genre. With Aditya Om, Ester, and Suhasini in key roles, the film has just been released. Let’s see if ‘Adiparvam’ meets the expectations and if Manchu Lakshmi has delivered a memorable performance.
Plot
Locals near the Erragudi temple in Kadapa believe hidden treasures lie within it. They think that whoever claims these treasures will become the wealthiest person in Rayalaseema. Nagamma (Manchu Lakshmi), an MLA, is determined to acquire it by any means, even turning to dark powers. Meanwhile, Rayappa, a village elder, also wants the treasure. How far will Rayappa and Nagamma go to obtain this wealth? Why does Rayappa want to sacrifice his own daughter Bujamma (Srijita)? Why does Nagamma want her dead too? How does the village deity Maremma (Suhasini) intervene to stop their wicked ways? Does Nagamma ultimately fulfill her desire for the treasure? And what happens to the love story of Bujamma and Srinu (Venkat Kiran)? This is the crux of the story.
Performance
Direction
Sanjeev Megoti based this movie on real events that occurred between 1974 and 1990. The story highlights the extremes people go to for personal gain, even contemplating the sacrifice of their own children. The sequences showing the consequences faced by the selfish characters pursuing the treasure are captivating. The portrayal of Maremma’s protection of the sacred treasure and her support for the faithful are well-executed. The conflict between divine and dark powers is engaging, and the director also depicts the love story of Bujamma and Srinu well. However, the predictable storyline, exaggerated drama, and lack of quality in the graphics weaken the movie.
Technical Aspects
On the technical side (Adiparvam Movie Review), the cinematography by Harish is commendable, with well-captured visuals. The music adds depth, with the background score enhancing scenes significantly. The editing could have been tighter, especially in the first half, and the graphics quality could have been better. The production values are strong.
Positives
– Manchu Lakshmi’s performance
– Battle between divine and evil powers
– Cinematography
Negatives
– Predictable storyline
– Low-quality graphics
– Slow-paced scenes
