Jithender Reddy Movie Review: A Bold Take on Naxalism and Patriotism

Cast: Rakesh Varre, Riya Suman, Chatrapathi Shekhar, Subbaraju, Ravi Prakash, Chatrapathi Shekhar, and others

Director: Virinchi Varma

Music: Gopi Sundar

Cinematography: V.S. Gnanashekar

Editor: Ramakrishna Arram

Producer: Muduganti Ravinder Reddy

Release Date: November 7, 2024

The latest political action film starring Rakesh Varre is ‘Jithender Reddy,’ directed by Virinchi Varma, known for ‘Uyyala Jampala.’ This movie is based on true events from the 1980s and is inspired by the life of an RSS volunteer. How does the film fare? Does it captivate the Telugu audience? Let’s find out.

What’s the Story

Set against the backdrop of real events in the unified Karimnagar district of Jagtial in the 1980s, Jithender Reddy (Rakesh Varre) grows up in a family of RSS volunteers. From a young age, Jithender is drawn to RSS ideologies, passionate about serving the country, religion, and people. One day, a young boy, not yet 18, is unjustly killed by Naxalites. This incident incites Jithender, then a college student, against the comrades. He realizes that Naxalites, who claim to bear arms for the people’s welfare, have strayed from their path. What kind of struggle does Jithender Reddy wage against the Naxalites? How does ABVB robustly counter the deeply entrenched PDSU in educational institutions? What services does Jithender Reddy provide as a college student leader and a champion against injustices in the region? That’s the story.

Performances

Rakesh Varre fits perfectly into the role of Jithender Reddy, captivating as an RSS volunteer. His acting, especially in scenes intended to inspire the public, is commendable. Compared to his previous films, he has shown significant maturity in acting. Overall, it can be said that Rakesh Varre has put in considerable effort for this film. The actor who played the PDSU leader did well. Subbaraju’s performance as an RSS volunteer and Chatrapathi Shekhar’s role as a Naxalite leader are impressive. The rest of the cast performed adequately within their roles.

Direction

So far, Telugu cinema has portrayed Naxalites from a positive angle. However, for the first time, director Virinchi Varma bravely showcases the dark side of Naxalism. He vividly illustrates how Naxalites obstructed governmental progressive works. He also depicts how Naxalites ruthlessly killed volunteers working for the oppressed classes. The hero’s reaction to the atrocities committed by the comrades and his ensuing fight against them is intriguingly captured. The director initially focuses on college politics, then touches on mainstream political angles post-interval. He also attempts to define what a true political leader should be through the character of Jithender Reddy. Overall, the director succeeds in clearly and pointedly conveying his message. However, a slow-paced first half, lack of commercial elements, and a predictable storyline can be seen as drawbacks.

Technically..

Technically, the background score is impressive. Although the songs are somewhat burdensome, one song in the climax touches the heart. The cinematography is good, and the editing work is decent. The production values are high and suitable for the storyline.