
In cinema, both the hero and the heroine are crucial, like the two eyes of a face. Nowadays, heroines seem to have less scope for substantive roles compared to the past, with some directors focusing films predominantly around the hero. Often, heroines appear primarily for songs and to add a visual appeal. Recent movies like 'Liger,' 'Mr. Bachchan,' and 'Double iSmart' have drawn criticism for focusing more on heroines' exposure than their acting skills. However, some young directors in Tollywood are attracting praise for portraying heroines with dignity, following the example set by Sekhar Kammula. Who are these directors? What films have they made? How have they portrayed their heroines? Let’s find out.



Sekhar Kammula



When you think of a sensible director in Tollywood, Sekhar Kammula is one of the first names that come to mind. He is known for creating beautiful love stories and engaging family dramas. The heroines in his films and the way they are portrayed remain memorable to the audience. Kamalinee Mukherjee in 'Anand' and 'Godavari' is a prime example, portrayed as the girl-next-door in a dignified manner. In 'Leader,' Richa Gangopadhyay, and in 'Life is Beautiful,' Shagun Kaur, left lasting impressions. Particularly in films like 'Fidaa' and 'Love Story,' Sai Pallavi's roles won hearts without relying on exposure, affirming Sekhar’s significant contribution to her becoming a star heroine. His understanding of how to extract authentic performances from actresses makes many heroines keen to work with him at least once.







Hanu Raghavapudi



Similar to Sekhar Kammula, director Hanu Raghavapudi takes great care in the portrayal of heroines. His films 'Andala Rakshasi,' 'Krishna Gaadi Veera Prema Gaadha,' 'Padi Padi Leche Manasu,' and 'Sita Ramam' make it clear that he focuses on the substance of his heroines' roles. Actresses like Lavanya Tripathi, Mehreen, Sai Pallavi, and Mrunal Thakur under his direction have garnered significant acclaim. Mrunal Thakur, in particular, received rave reviews for her role in the beautiful love saga 'Sita Ramam,' achieving star status in Telugu cinema. Her character Sita in the film remains special to her, as stated in various interviews. Hanu has announced a project with Prabhas, introducing a new actress, Iman Ismail, to the Telugu screen, whose appearance has already generated considerable interest.







Vivek Athreya



Young director Vivek Athreya also seems to follow in Sekhar Kammula's footsteps regarding heroine portrayal. His recent film 'Saripodhaa Sanivaaram' with Nani, featuring Tamil actress Priyanka Arul Mohan, showcased her acting without resorting to glamour. His previous works, 'Mental Madhilo,' 'Brochevarevarura,' and 'Ante Sundaraniki,' emphasized dignified portrayals over skin show, with actresses like Nivetha Pethuraj, Nivetha Thomas, and Nazriya Nazim earning recognition for their roles.







Shouryuv



Director Shouryuv made his mark with the film 'Hi Nanna,' capturing hearts and earning praise for his sensitive portrayal. In the film, Nani stars alongside Mrunal Thakur, who was previously known in Bollywood for more glamorous roles. Shouryuv presented her as a quintessential Telugu girl without compromising her dignity throughout the film. Despite opportunities for skin show in songs, he chose not to take that route, maintaining the integrity of Mrunal's character. This approach left film critics impressed and hopeful that he will continue in this manner in his future projects.







Tharun Bhascker



Tharun Bhascker, a young director, has quickly become synonymous with youthful films. He has gained recognition in a short time with content that resonates with the youth, without ever giving in to the temptation to showcase glamour unnecessarily. Starting with his debut film 'Pelli Choopulu,' this aspect becomes clear. Vijay Deverakonda and Ritu Varma's pairing in the film highlighted substantial acting over cheap thrills. This film significantly boosted Ritu Varma's popularity. After turning actor in several films, Tharun Bhascker has returned to directing with 'Keeḍa Cola,' continuing his tradition of dignified cinematic portrayals.






Tollywood's Emerging Directors: Redefining the Role of Heroines

Good Telugu Movies on OTT: Here are the top Telugu family entertainers from the last decade!


Young hero Vishwak Sen continues to captivate audiences with his diverse film choices, each showcasing unique characters and stories, leading to a series of successes. Recently, he secured a solid hit with 'Gangs Of Godavari', heightening curiosity about what concept he would choose next. Currently, Vishwak is working on a film titled 'Mechanic Rocky'. A new single from this movie has just been released and is garnering attention.



Release of 'Oo Pillo' Song



Directed by Raviteja Mullapudi, Vishwak Sen stars in 'Mechanic Rocky', produced by Ram Talluri. The film features Meenakshi Chaudhary and Shraddha Srinath as the female leads and is set to release on October 31st as a Diwali treat. Jakes Bejoy, who recently delivered a blockbuster album for 'Just Missed Saturday', is composing the music for this film. The latest song released from this movie is 'Oo Pillo', penned by Krishna Chaitanya and sung by Nakash Aziz. Check out this youthful song.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HkSttt1iJg&amp;t=3s




How is the song?



The song 'Oo Pillo' introduces the romance between Rakhi (Vishwak Sen) and Priya (Meenakshi Chaudhary), with Vishwak expressing his feelings for her. Sung by Nakash Aziz, the song is youthful and charming. The chemistry between Vishwak and Meenakshi is well-portrayed, and the visuals are quite engaging. Manoj Katasani’s cinematography is also commendable. Vishwak, as always, captivates with his classic dance moves in this song. Shraddha Srinath also plays a significant role in the movie.







Vishwak as 'Laila'



Alongside 'Mechanic Rocky', Vishwak Sen is working on another project titled 'Laila', directed by Ram Narayan. In this film, Vishwak will appear as a woman for the first time, sparking considerable interest since its announcement. Having played mass characters until now, Vishwak’s new role as a woman is eagerly anticipated by his fans. The film is scheduled for release on Valentine's Day, February 14th, next year.




https://twitter.com/HanuNews/status/1808353426721407104




As a Police Officer...



Vishwak Sen recently announced another project with the working title 'VS13', directed by Sridhar Ganta. Ajaneesh, the music director from 'Kantara', will be scoring the music for this film. From the first poster, it appears Vishwak will portray a police officer. The film, an action drama, is expected to reveal more details soon.




https://twitter.com/SLVCinemasOffl/status/1820696576098197948




Hat-trick Hits



Vishwak Sen is riding high with a hat-trick of hits. His recent film 'Gangs Of Godavari' received positive reviews and performed well at the box office. In 'Gaami', directed by Vidyadhar Kagita, Vishwak's portrayal of Aghora Shankar was well-received. Chandini Chowdary also played a significant role in this film. Previously, 'Das Ka Dhamki', which Vishwak also directed, brought him acclaim. In this film, he impressed with his dual roles, and Nivetha Pethuraj starred as the heroine.






Vishwak Sen's 'Mechanic Rocky' Gears Up with New Song 'Oo Pillo,' Setting the Stage for Diwali Release


Watching the same type of movies can become monotonous even for avid cinema enthusiasts. In response, some directors and producers have crafted films with unique and experimental concepts. These films, showcasing diverse stories and narratives, are now available on OTT platforms. Those in search of variety in cinema can easily access these films, which promise to deliver fresh experiences. What are these films? Where are they streaming? What makes their concepts unique? Let’s explore these questions in this narrative.



Aham Reboot



The latest film starring Sumanth, 'Aham Reboot,' began streaming on Aha from June 30. Directed by Prashanth Sagar Atluri, this psychological thriller is notable because only Sumanth’s character is visually present on screen; other characters are only heard. Aha sources report that the film is receiving positive responses. The plot revolves around RJ Nilay (Sumanth), who receives a call from a girl claiming to be kidnapped while he is in the studio. Initially dismissing it as a prank, Nilay becomes convinced of her plight and decides to save her. Meanwhile, the police also get involved in attempting to rescue the girl. Who is the kidnapped young woman? What is her connection to Nilay? That is the story.



OTT Platform: Aha







105 Minuttess



Following a similar model to 'Aham Reboot,' a recent lady-oriented film, '105 Minuttess,' starring Hansika, was shot in just six days. The plot unfolds as Janu (played by Hansika) feels pursued by an unseen force while driving home from the office. Upon arriving home, she experiences unexpected events. This invisible force starts tormenting Janu, restraining her with iron chains and subjecting her to bizarre tortures. It accuses her of being responsible for its death and causes her great distress. Who is this invisible entity? How is Janu connected to its death? And how does Janu escape its clutches? This forms the rest of the story.



OTT Platform: Amazon Prime







Aarambham



Featuring Mohan Bhagat of 'C/o Kancharapalem' fame, 'Aarambham' is another film with an experimental storyline directed by Ajay Nag. It explores the concept of 'Migil, while serving his sentence in Kala Ghadi Jail, mysteriously disappears from his cell just a day before his scheduled execution. Despite the locks and walls remaining intact, his disappearance baffles everyone. A detective enters the scene to investigate this anomaly. The discovery of Migil’s diary turns the investigation on its head. What is in the diary? What connection does it have with the Deja Vu experiment? These are the unfolding mysteries of the story.



OTT Platform: ETV Win







Love Me



Directed by Arun Bhimavarapu, 'Love Me,' starring Ashish Reddy and Vaishnavi Chaitanya, introduces a novel concept. What happens if a young man falls in love with a ghost? The film chronicles the consequences of this unusual relationship. Despite the film's mixed reviews, it promises a unique experience. The plot follows Arjun (Ashish) and Pratap (Ravi Krishna) run a YouTube channel focused on ghosts and spirits. Pratap's lover, Priya (Vaishnavi), talks about a ghost named Divyavathi in her run-down apartment. Intrigued, Arjun visits and falls in love with Divyavathi's spirit. What happens next? Who is Divyavathi? That's the story.



OTT Platform: Amazon Prime







Project Z



Starring Sundeep Kishan and Lavanya Tripathi, 'Project Z' presents a storyline unlike any seen before. It explores the science fiction genre with the concept of immortality. The plot kicks off with a series of murders causing turmoil in the city, all seemingly the work of a serial killer. Police officer Kumar (Sundeep Kishan) steps in, and during his investigation, sensational discoveries come to light. Is a scientist behind all this? Who is this scientist? Why is he committing murders? What experiment has he conducted? How does Kumar solve the case? That is the story.



OTT Platform: Aha







Prasanna Vadanam



Suhas's recent film, 'Prasanna Vadanam,' can be described as an experimental movie. In it, the hero suffers from face blindness (prosopagnosia), unable to recognize faces or voices. Key roles are played by Payal Radhakrishna, Raashi Singh, Nandu, and Viva Harsha. The movie's plot revolves around Surya, who works as a radio jockey, has his life turned upside down by an accident that leaves him with face blindness. He becomes unable to recognize faces or voices. One day, a murder occurs right before his eyes, and unexpectedly, Surya finds himself entangled in the case. Who framed Surya? Did he manage to clear his name? That is the story.







Bramayugam



The Malayalam film industry is known for its experimental projects. Mammootty stars in 'Bramayugam,' also crafted with a unique concept and shot in black and white format even in the digital era. The story revolves around three characters. Thevan, a singer, travels through a forest and comes across an abandoned mansion. The mansion is inhabited only by the owner, Mammootty (Kudumon Potti), and a cook. After a series of dramatic events, Thevan decides to flee the mansion. Why did Thevan want to escape? Who is Kudumon Potti? What is he doing in the forest?



OTT Platform: Sony Liv






Telugu OTT Movies: Experimental Films Like 'Aham Reboot'

Telugu Folk Songs Lyrics:  The Living Heartbeat of Rural Traditions


Creative director Krishna Vamsi once meant a festive atmosphere in theaters with his films. Throughout his career, he has directed many super hit films, among which Anthahpuram stands as a milestone. In this film, the late actress Soundarya played the female lead, captivating audiences with her performance, which garnered widespread acclaim. Currently, Krishna Vamsi is quite active on platform X, engaging intriguingly with netizens' questions. During this interaction, when asked by a netizen which current actress could replace Soundarya in Anthahpuram, Krishna Vamsi's response has gone viral.



What did Krishna Vamsi say?



The film Anthahpuram, featuring Soundarya, Sai Kumar, Prakash Raj, and Jagapathi Babu, was a massive success at the box office. Soundarya delivered an outstanding performance as a mother protecting her child from her cruel uncle. When a netizen on X asked Krishna Vamsi which of today’s actresses could fit into Anthahpuram, he replied, "I can’t imagine anyone replacing Soundarya. However, today's actresses are very talented and mesmerizing with their performances. I respect them." The netizen then queried whether Nivetha Thomas or Shraddha Kapoor would be suitable, to which Krishna Vamsi opined that Samantha and Sai Pallavi could be perfect for Soundarya’s role. This post is now trending wildly online, with fans of Samantha and Sai Pallavi making it go viral.







Can They Replace Soundarya?



Star heroine Samantha is recognized not only as a glamour beauty but also as a talented actress. She won an award for Best Actress with her first film, 'Ye Maaya Chesave'. Following that, she proved her acting skills in films like 'Manam', 'A Aa', 'U Turn', 'Jaanu', 'Yashoda', 'Shaakuntalam', and 'Oh! Baby'. Sai Pallavi's acting skills need no special mention. With films like Premam, Fidaa, Love Story, Shyam Singha Roy, Virata Parvam, and Gargi, she has demonstrated unmatched acting prowess. Netizens believe these star heroines could do justice to Soundarya’s role in Anthahpuram.







Director with Two National Awards



Director Krishna Vamsi, originally Pasupuleti Venkata Bangarraju, started his career as an assistant director under Ram Gopal Varma. He made his directorial debut in 1995 with the film 'Gulabi', starring JD Chakravarthy. He directed successful films like 'Anthahpuram', 'Chandrallekha', 'Ninne Pelladutha', Murari, Khadgam, Sri Anjaneyam, Rakhi, Chandamama, and Mahatma. Recently, he directed 'Rangamarthanda', a film that touched the hearts of audiences. Throughout his career, Krishna Vamsi has received two National Film Awards, three Filmfare Awards South, and four Nandi Awards.






Krishna Vamsi Sparks Debate: Can Samantha or Sai Pallavi Match Soundarya’s Iconic Role in 'Anthahpuram'?


Hyderabad is set to welcome another spiritual edifice under the auspices of the Hare Krishna movement: the Hare Krishna Heritage Tower.







Located in Kokapet, this heritage tower is being constructed over a six-acre area with a budget exceeding ₹200 crores.







Recently, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy laid the foundation and performed the inaugural ceremonies for this spiritual building.







Once completed, this 430-foot-tall tower will be among the tallest structures in the country and is expected to become a major attraction in Hyderabad.







The specialties of this Heritage Tower include a temple mandapam that will house the idols of Radha-Krishna along with eight main gopikas.







A temple resembling the grand enclosures of Tirumala dedicated to Lord Srinivasa is also planned within the complex.







The temple dedicated to Lord Srinivasa Govinda is being intricately carved out of stone, reflecting the architectural culture of ancient temple structures.







Envisioned as the Pride of Telangana, this Heritage Tower will embody architectural styles from the Kakatiya, Chalukya, and Dravidian eras.







The tower will also feature a museum, library, and other modern facilities like temples, holograms, and laser projectors to enhance spiritual awareness among visitors.







A free meal center is also planned to be established within the tower to serve the elderly and disabled, complete with elevators and ramps, as well as a queue hall for devotees waiting for darshan.







The inauguration of the Hare Krishna Heritage Tower is set to transform the area into a spiritual and commercial hub, providing employment opportunities to many local small business owners.







The Telangana government has contributed ₹25 crores towards the construction of the Hare Krishna Heritage Tower, which is expected to be completed by 2028.






Hare Krishna Heritage Tower: A New Spiritual Landmark in Hyderabad


Actor Mahesh Babu, often seen in commercials, continues to surprise his fans by appearing frequently in various ads while still allocating time for his film projects. He ensures that his ad commitments do not compromise his film remunerations. Recently, Mahesh Babu and Tamannaah teamed up for a new commercial, which has been quite captivating. Take a look.



Cute Couples: Mahesh and Tamannaah!



Mahesh Babu and Tamannaah Bhatia, who previously starred together in the film 'Aagadu,' have garnered praises for their on-screen chemistry despite the movie's poor performance at the box office. Noticing this, the prominent electronics company LLOYD appointed them as brand ambassadors. Recently, they featured together in a commercial for LLOYD's advanced washing machine, the Lloyd Novante. This 25-second advertisement showcases their pairing as exceptionally charming, according to fans' comments. Check out this ad for yourself.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&amp;v=thhQfEk9ZPs




Previously as well...



This is not the first time Mahesh Babu and Tamannaah have collaborated in an advertisement. They have previously appeared together in commercials for LLOYD, including for LLOYD Grand Heavy Duty AC and other LLOYD ACs, where they appeared as a delightful couple, enhancing the product's features. These ads were well received by consumers, and there's buzz that the popularity of these star actors significantly boosted the sales of LLOYD products.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lWf3C90zBuM&amp;t=6s





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scd5zQmuQ_c




Celebrating Diwali with her beau



On another note, the beloved 'milk beauty' Tamannaah, who has been in a relationship with Bollywood actor Vijay Varma, recently attended a Diwali event hosted by Bollywood producer Ramesh Taurani. Tamannaah dazzled everyone there in a pink dress, flaunting her elegance and turning the traditional party glamorous. Photos and videos of Tamannaah from this event quickly went viral online. Meanwhile, rumors are swirling in Bollywood circles that Tamannaah and Vijay Varma might soon tie the knot.




https://twitter.com/Anamika_upi/status/1850805298019316066




Mahesh Babu as Krishna!



It's well-known that Mahesh Babu will star in 'SSMB 29,' a project in collaboration with Rajamouli, currently in pre-production. However, there's intriguing news circulating in Tollywood about Mahesh. He is rumored to make a cameo appearance as Lord Krishna in his nephew Ashok Galla's film 'Devaki Nandana Vasudeva,' directed by Prashanth Varma. Interestingly, he will appear as Krishna in a powerful, yet brief, role, similar to how Krishna was portrayed in the movie 'Kalki.' The climax is said to include a formidable scene of Krishna in his fierce form. An official announcement from the film's team is awaited.




https://twitter.com/RajivAluri/status/1850877605630599469



Watch: Mahesh Babu-Tamannaah's Sizzling Chemistry Goes Viral; Superstar's Surprise Lord Krishna Role Leaked!


Cast: Chetan Krishna, Chetan Maddineni, Vennela Kishore, Sai Kumar, Vinay Varma, Praveen, Naveen Neni, Goparaju Ramana, and others.



Director: Sai Kishore Macha



Music: Gopi Sundar



Cinematography: Siddharth Ramaswamy



Producer: M.S. Ram Kumar



Release Date: November 8, 2024



The latest film ‘Dhoom Dhaam,’ starring Chetan Maddineni and Hebah Patel, directed by Sai Kishore Macha, also features Sai Kumar, Vennela Kishore, Prithviraj, and Goparaju Ramana in key roles. Produced by M.S. Ram Kumar under the Friday Frameworks banner, the film finally arrived in theaters on November 8. Has it impressed the Telugu audience? Let’s dive into the review.







What's the Story



Karthik (Chetan Maddineni) shares a deep bond with his father, Ramaraju (Sai Kumar), with both father and son supporting and caring for each other. One day, Karthik falls in love with Suhana (Hebah Patel) at first sight, though she initially doesn’t reciprocate. Frustrated, Karthik heads to Poland, where Suhana follows him, eventually winning his love. Meanwhile, Karthik has a long-standing feud with Suhana’s uncle (Ramaraju) and her father’s brother (Benarjee), who want to kill him. What’s behind this enmity? How does Karthik resolve these issues? Do Karthik and Suhana unite in the end? To find out, you’ll need to watch the movie.







Performance&nbsp;



Chetan Krishna, as Karthik, delivers a decent performance, showing growth in his acting, though he could have worked more on expressions, especially in key scenes. Hebah Patel impresses as Suhana, returning to a commercial role and scoring well with both her charm and acting. Their chemistry works well on screen. Vennela Kishore, in the role of Karthik’s cousin, steals the show with his comedy, which is a major strength of the film. Sai Kumar, Goparaju Ramana, Shivannarayana, Benarjee, Sai Srinivas, Praveen, and Giridhar all perform within their roles effectively.







Direction



Director Sai Kishore Macha has chosen a straightforward storyline. However, his effort to deliver a good romantic and family entertainer is commendable. Even with a love track, he avoids vulgarity, carefully presenting the bond between father and son, father and daughter, and other family relationships. The first half focuses on the love story, minor conflicts, and misunderstandings, which feel a bit routine, with Praveen’s comedic relief standing out. The interval twist brings intrigue into the second half, where the backstory of the heroine’s family unfolds, giving the film more depth. Vennela Kishore shoulders most of the second half with his comedy. However, slow narration, underutilized casting, and a few unclear expressions from the hero act as drawbacks.







Technical Aspects



On the technical front, Gopi Sundar’s music is a big asset. The songs are enjoyable, and the background score adds a fresh feel. Siddharth Ramaswamy’s cinematography is impressive, with vibrant visuals. The editor could have tightened the runtime further. The production values are outstanding, with no expense spared by the producers.







Plus Points



- Vennela Kishore’s comedy



- Family emotions



- Music



Minus Points



- Routine story



- Regular love track



- Slow narration



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 2.5/5


Dhoom Dhaam Review: Does the Family Drama and Comedy Deliver Enough Punch?


Cast: Yuva Chandra Krishna, Ananya Nagalla, Ajay, Priyanka Sharma, Tanasvi Choudary, Noel Sean, Chatrapathi Shekhar, Srikanth Iyengar, Jeevan, Riyaz, Vikram, and others.



Written and Directed by: Sahith Mothkuri



Music by: Shekhar Chandra



Cinematography by: Monish Bhupathi Raju



Edited by: Karthika Srinivas



Producers: Nishank Reddy Kudithi, Suresh Kumar Sadige



Production Companies: Nisa Entertainments, Pragnya Sannidhi Creations



Release Date: 25-10-2024



In the latest film Pottel, Ananya Nagalla and Yuva Chandra pair up in a film directed by Sahith Mothkuri, who made his directorial debut with the film Savari. Pottel has garnered unprecedented publicity for a small-scale cinema. Pan-India director Sandeep Reddy Vanga praised this film by comparing it with Ram Charan's 'Rangasthalam.' The screenwriter Trivikram also raised expectations by lauding the film. Released on Friday (October 25), did this film meet expectations? Did it bring success to Ananya? Let's see in this review.







Plot



The story unfolds in Gurramgadda village, located at the borders of Maharashtra and Telangana. The villagers conduct a festival for the village deity Balamma once in every cycle and offer sacrifices. It is believed that during this time, the deity possesses Patel (Ajay), the village head, who then prevents the villagers from progressing, particularly in education. On the other side, Pedda Gangadhari (Yuva Chandra) serves as the keeper of the sacrificial animals and secretly educates his daughter. When Patel finds out, he makes the sacrificial animal disappear. He threatens to sacrifice Gangadhari's daughter if the animal isn't found by the festival. What does Gangadhari do to save his daughter? Is he able to bring back the animal? What role does Bujjamma (Ananya Nagalla) play in this story?







Performances



Ajay, as Patel, delivers a powerhouse performance, surpassing even his impactful role in 'Vikramarkudu.' Newcomer Yuva Chandra excels as Gangadhari, a man desperate to educate his child and improve his village. Despite being his debut, he perfectly fits into his role. Telugu actress Ananya Nagalla gets a substantial role and shines as Bujjamma. Even in a deglamorized role, she delivers an exceptional performance. Singer Noel also got a significant role and did justice to it. Srikanth Iyengar and Chatrapathi Shekhar lived up to their roles, along with other supporting cast members who performed competently within their limits.







Direction



Director Sahith Mothkuri captures the essence of a rural 1980s setting right from the beginning, immersing the audience into that era within the first 20 minutes. He vividly portrays how the oppressed and weak were subdued during the Patel era, focusing on the prejudices rooted in caste and pride. The introduction of characters, the love story between the hero and heroine, and other scenes are well-handled in the first half. However, the second half seems a bit faltering. The director appears to rely too heavily on the villain's oppression to drive emotional engagement, resulting in scenes that sometimes lack logical continuity. Nevertheless, the director succeeds in connecting the audience with the film's underlying message.







Technically



On the technical front, the music and cinematography departments have performed well. The songs and background score positively impact the film. However, editing flaws are noticeable, particularly in the second half where scenes drag. The art department excels, recreating the atmosphere of the 1980s with their workmanship.







Plus Points



- Story



- Lead performances



- Music



Minus Points



- Lack of engaging narrative



- Dragging scenes



Rating by Telugu.yousay.tv: 3/5


Pottel Movie Review: 'Rangasthalam' Level Telugu Film? Sandeep Reddy Vanga's BOLD Comparison, Ananya's De-glam Avatar Shocks, But Second Half DISAPPOINTS!


Cast: Vinoth Kishan, Anusha Krishna, Rithika Srinivas, Jagan Yogi Raj, Anusha Nootal, Ganesh Tipparaju, Naren Yadav, and others.



Directed by: Neelagiri Mammilla



Music by: Smaran Sai



Cinematography: Haricharan K.



Editing: Srujan Adusumilli, Hamza Ali



Producer: Rakesh Varre



Production Company: Crazy Ants Productions



Release Date: July 19, 2024



Starring Vinoth Kishan and Anusha Krishna, the film 'Peka Medalu' was produced by Crazy Ants Productions. Directed by Neelagiri Mammilla, the movie made its way to the audience on July 19th. Did the film manage to captivate its audience? Let’s find out.







Plot



Lakshman (Vinoth Kishan) and Varalakshmi (Anusha Krishna) reside in a slum along the Musi River. Despite holding an engineering degree, Lakshman remains unemployed, spending his days dreaming of striking it rich by dealing in real estate. Meanwhile, Varalakshmi shoulders the family’s financial responsibilities. During this period, Lakshman encounters Shweta (Rithika Srinivas), an American investor searching for real estate opportunities. Attempting to capitalize on this, Lakshman masquerades as a wealthy investor. He even exploits his wife’s name to secure loans from the local community. The plot thickens when Varalakshmi discovers his deceit. What actions does she take? How does Shweta's husband respond to Lakshman’s schemes? And do Lakshman’s lofty ambitions ever materialize? For the answers, one must visit the theaters.







Performances



This is Tamil actor Vinoth Kishan’s first direct film in Telugu. He fits well into the role of Lakshman, convincingly playing the part of a husband wasting time building castles in the air. On the other hand, Anusha Krishna excels as Varalakshmi, portraying the struggles of a middle-class wife with natural ease. Rithika Srinivas also delivers a solid performance as the NRI lady. The movie primarily revolves around these three characters. Other actors in the film also impress within their roles.







Direction



Director Neelagiri Mammilla has attempted to showcase the lives of the impoverished in the slums of Hyderabad through this film. 'Peka Medalu' conveys that just like the castles in the air, the lives of those who believe in them are similarly intangible. The film depicts how the circumstances in the slums lead children astray while also infusing humor to carry the middle and lower-class emotions. Furthermore, the director has made efforts to portray women's empowerment, suggesting that nothing is impossible with hard work. The first half of the movie flows smoothly, though the second half feels a bit dragged. However, the scenes from the pre-climax to the end title elevate the film to another level. The absence of commercial elements, a routine story, and some scenes feeling repetitive are drawbacks of the movie.







Technically



On the technical front, the music is good. The editor could have been sharper, especially in making some scenes in the second half crisper. The cinematography is commendable, and the production values are high, giving even this small-scale film a rich look.







Plus Points



- Performances by the main cast



- Narrative and screenplay



- Messaging



Minus Points



- Routine story



- Lack of commercial elements



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 3/5


Peka Medalu Movie Review: A Heartfelt Tale of Middle-Class Emotions!


Cast: Suhas, Vishika Kot, Posani Krishna Murali, Raghu Karumanchi, and others



Director: Bobby Varma



Music: Pavan CH



Cinematographer: Suresh Sarangam



Editor: Vamsi Krishna Ravi



Producer: Prashanth Mandava



Release Date: 21-09-2024



Tollywood's young actor Suhas has become synonymous with diverse films. Continuing his trend of intriguing Telugu audiences with unique storylines, Suhas stars in another innovative film, 'Gorre Puranam' directed by Bobby Varma. Notably, director Tharun Bhascker provides the voiceover for the goat. Released on September 21, how does this film fare? Did it captivate the audience or not? Let's find out in this review.







What's the Story?



Ravi (Suhas) ends up in jail for committing a murder. Meanwhile, a Muslim man buys a goat to make biryani for his family, but it escapes. In an attempt to catch the goat, the Muslim man and several others chase after it. The goat takes refuge in a village temple where it accidentally gets drunk and is captured by Hindus who want to sacrifice it. This incident catches the media's eye, escalating religious tensions, leading to the police arresting the goat. It is kept in the same cell as Ravi. Why did Ravi commit murder? What is the connection between Ravi’s crime and the goat? Who tried to kill the goat in jail? To find out, one must watch the movie.







How Did They Perform?



Suhas's role is brief in the film, but he captivates with his natural acting prowess. The goat appears on screen longer than the human actors, with Tharun Bhascker’s voiceover adding a comedic touch. Comedian Getup Sreenu also provides a voice for the goat. Other actors like comedian Raghu and Jenny, though in brief roles, significantly impact the story.







How's the Direction?



Director Bobby Varma’s effort to cast a goat as a principal character is commendable. He cleverly narrates where the goat’s story began, what it desires, and its purpose, while infusing the film with sharp satire targeting people, politicians, and the media. While entertaining, the director also makes the audience think. The development of Suhas’s character is well executed. However, the director falters in connecting why he committed murder and planned further killings. The lack of commercial elements and ineffective emotional scenes are drawbacks of the film.







Technically Speaking



Technically, the cinematography is a significant plus. The background score suits the film well, and the editing is adequate. The production values are high, showing no compromise in spending.







Plus Points



- Suhas’s acting



- Story and narration



- Dialogues



Minus Points



- Lack of commercial elements



- Ineffective emotional scenes



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 2.5/5


Gorre Puranam Review: A Quirky Tale Where the Goat Steals the Show!


Cast: Sumanth



Writer and Director: Prashanth Sagar Atluri



Music: Sriram Madduri



Cinematography: Varun Ankarla



Editing: Murali Krishna Manyam



Visual Effects: Shashwat Kaurav



Producers: Raghuveer, Srujan



OTT Platform: Aha



The film 'Aham Reboot,' directed by Prashanth Sagar Atluri and starring Sumanth , was initially completed some time ago and was intended for a theatrical release. However, due to certain reasons, it was quietly released on the OTT platform Aha on June 30. This psychological thriller has made its way to streaming. Did it manage to impress OTT viewers? Did it provide another success for Sumanth? Let’s find out in this review.







What’s the Story?



Nilay (Sumanth), who dreamt of being a football player, turns into a radio jockey following an accident. One day while in the studio, he receives a call from a girl claiming she has been kidnapped. Initially dismissing it as a prank, Nilay is eventually convinced by her words and decides to go live. The police, listening to the radio, start believing that the girl has indeed been kidnapped and begin efforts to save her. They assign the task of gathering information about the kidnapped girl to Nilay, who is in the studio. Who is this girl? Was she really kidnapped? How do the police save her? Who is the girl Nilay lost in an accident? Is there any connection between her and the kidnapped girl? You'll have to watch the movie to find out.







How Did They Perform?



In the movie 'Aham Reboot,' Sumanth is a one-man show. He is the only character visible throughout the movie; all other characters are just heard. Sumanth captivates with his performance, embodying a modern young man carrying an unspoken sorrow and striving to save a girl's life as a radio jockey. He effectively conveys emotions and carries the story on his shoulders. Visually, Sumanth presents a new look in this movie.







How’s the Direction?



Directing a movie with just one character is akin to walking a tightrope, especially when the entire story unfolds in a single location. In this challenging endeavor, director Prashanth Sagar Atluri has managed to achieve a notable level of success. The narrative begins with a phone call from a girl claiming she has been kidnapped. The director skillfully guides the plot from gathering her details to forwarding them to the police, who then initiate a rescue operation. This approach keeps the narrative tight and engaging. A twist at the end that links Nilay's life to the kidnapped girl adds an intriguing element. However, the film's reliance on only Sumanth's character and dialogue to drive the story might seem monotonous to some viewers. For those with the patience, 'Aham Reboot' offers a compelling thriller experience.







Technically...



On the technical front, the background music is a significant plus for the movie. Sriram Madduri’s BGM elevates the thrilling scenes further. With just one character, the editing needed to be crisp, which worked out well. The production values are commendable.







Plus Points



- Sumanth’s acting



- Innovative storytelling



- Background music



Minus Point



- The entire movie revolves around just one visible character



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 3/5


Aham Reboot OTT Review: Sumanth's Solo Act—Did the Experiment Work?


Cast: Sai Ronak, Rajendra Prasad, Pragya Nagra, Raghu Babu, Saptagiri, Krishna, Rohini, and others.



Writer and Director: Ramesh Cheppala



Music: Charan Arjun



Background Score: Mani Sharma



Cinematography: M.N. Bal Reddy



Editor: Bonthala Nageswara Rao



Producer: Venu Gopal Reddy



Release Date: October 25, 2024



The film Laggam, starring Sai Ronak and Pragya Nagra, is directed by Ramesh Cheppala and produced by Venugopal Reddy. The movie features key roles played by Rajendra Prasad, LB Sriram, Rohini, Saptagiri, Krishnudu, and Raghu Babu, among others. The film was released on October 25. Let's find out if it impressed the audience in this review.







What is the Story?



The story revolves around Sadanandam (Rajendra Prasad) from a village in Telangana who comes to Hyderabad for work. He visits his sister (Rohini), who lives in the city with her son Chaitanya (Sai Ronak), a software engineer. Observing Chaitanya's lifestyle, Sadanandam decides to marry his daughter Manasa (Pragya) to him, although she initially does not favor the idea. The two families agree on the marriage. However, due to a certain reason, Chaitanya resigns from his job, a fact he hides from Sadanandam, leading to a series of events aiming to stop the marriage. Meanwhile, Chaitanya also decides to call off the wedding. Despite her initial reluctance, Manasa starts falling for Chaitanya. What happens next? Why did Chaitanya resign? Did Chaitanya and Manasa get married? To find out, one must watch the movie.







How did the Actors Perform?



Sai Ronak, in the role of Chaitanya, was captivating. As a software engineer committed to his family's happiness, he fitted well into his character. Pragya Nagra, as Manasa, impressed with her performance in a significant role. The chemistry between Sai Ronak and Pragya was effective, and both competed well on screen. Veteran actor Rajendra Prasad, as Manasa's father Sadanandam, left his indelible mark. Rohini, as the hero's mother, performed admirably. Raghu Babu, Krishna, LB Sriram, and Kireeti, among others, performed their parts well according to their roles. The rest of the cast was adequate.







How was the Direction?



The director skillfully showcased the wedding traditions and practices of Telangana, illustrating that a marriage is more than just tying knots; it's a heartfelt union between two generations. The first half introduces the hero and the colorful life of software employees. From the moment the marriage agreement is made, traditional Telangana customs are vividly depicted. By the interval, a suspense builds up about whether the wedding will happen, maintaining interest for the second half. The director successfully conveyed why Manasa changes her mind and why Chaitanya decides against the marriage. However, some scenes lacked connectivity, which could be seen as a downside. The long-drawn scenes tested the patience of the audience. The climax scene, involving the handover, resonated well with every young woman and their parents, marking a success for the director.







Technically...



On the technical front, Mani Sharma’s background score was a significant highlight, enhancing many scenes. The cinematography added another layer of appeal to the film. Charan Arjun’s songs were appealing. Nageswara Rao Bonthala’s editing crisply fit the film’s pace. The production values were also commendable.







Plus Points



- Story and narration



- Main cast's performances



- Music



Minus Points



- Some dragged scenes



- Lack of mass elements



Rating from Telugu.yousay.tv: 3/5


Laggam Movie Review: Software Engineer's Secret Resignation Turns Marriage Plans Upside Down!


In real life, just like in reel life, celebrities are tying the knot starting with love affairs followed by marriages. Krishna-Vijaya Nirmala, Rajasekhar-Jeevitha, Nagarjuna-Amala, Srikanth-Ooha, and Mahesh Babu-Namrata belong to this group. However, celebrity marriages in Tollywood have recently increased. Young hero Nara Rohit recently married young actress Siri Lella. Let's take a look at this generation's hero-heroine couples who have united in marriage.



Nara Rohit - Siri Lella



Nara Rohit, the nephew of AP CM Nara Chandrababu and known for his debut in 'Baanam', has captured attention with films like 'Solo', 'Pratinidhi', 'Asura', and 'Sundarakanda'. He recently got engaged to young actress Siri Lella. Their wedding is scheduled for December. They both acted together in 'Pratinidhi 2'. During the shooting, a friendship developed between them and eventually, they got engaged in the presence of friends and relatives. Siri Lella, from Rentachintala in AP, returned to India with a passion for acting after completing her master's degree in Australia. She secured the heroine role in 'Pratinidhi 2' after auditioning.







Naga Chaitanya - Sobhita Dhulipala



It's known that Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita Dhulipala are set to marry soon. Their engagement took place recently among close friends and family. Chaitanya had previously married Samantha in 2017, and they divorced in 2021 due to personal reasons. Since then, Naga Chaitanya and Sobhita have often been seen together, with significant media speculation about their relationship. They haven't responded to engagement rumors, but the formal engagement has put a stop to them. Currently, Naga Chaitanya is busy with the film 'Tandel', and Sobhita recently acted in the Hollywood film 'Monkey Man' and the Hindi film 'Love, Sitara' which recently released on OTT.







Kiran Abbavaram - Rahasya Gorak



Young hero Kiran Abbavaram entered the industry with the film 'Raja Vaaru Rani Gaaru', where Rahasya Gorak starred as the heroine. They gained recognition as a beautiful couple from their very first film. Their friendship during the film's shooting blossomed into love. After being in love for five years, the couple married on August 22 in Coorg, Karnataka. Before entering cinema, both Kiran and Rahasya worked as software engineers. They quit their jobs due to their passion for acting. Currently, Kiran is acting in the film 'Ka', set to release as a Diwali gift.







Varun Tej - Lavanya Tripathi



Mega brother Nagababu's son Varun Tej made his entry as a hero with the 2014 film 'Mukunda'. He then starred in successful films such as 'Kanche', 'Fidaa', 'Loafer', and 'F3'. He married prominent heroine Lavanya Tripathi in a destination wedding last November. They first acted together in the 2017 film 'Mister' and later in 'Antariksham', which led to their friendship turning into a marriage. Their wedding in Italy was attended by the entire Mega family. Varun Tej is currently featured in the film 'Matka' set to release on November 14. Lavanya is currently acting in the Tamil film 'Thanal'.







Aadi Pinisetty - Nikki Galrani



Son of famous director Raviraja Pinisetty, young hero Aadhi Pinisetty has carved a niche for himself by choosing diverse roles. He impressed as a villain in Allu Arjun's 'Sarrainodu' and Ram's 'Warrior'. He married actress Nikki Galrani in May 2022, with whom he has acted in two films, 'Malupu' and 'Marakathamani'. Their love blossomed during the shooting of 'Malupu', leading to marriage.







Varun Sandesh - Vithika Sheru



Young hero Varun Sandesh, known since the 2007 release 'Happy Days', connected well with the youth following the success of 'Kotha Bangaru Lokam'. He married actress Vithika Sheru on December 7, 2015. They both acted in the same year's release 'Paddanandi Premalo Mari'. Their strong friendship and mutual feelings led to marriage. They also participated as a couple in Bigg Boss Telugu Season 3, leaving a lasting impression as a beloved couple on television. Varun Sandesh greeted Telugu audiences this year with 'Ninda' and Viraji films. Vithika Sheru is currently active on YouTube, creating videos and engaging on social media.






Celebrity Weddings: Tollywood's Newest Couples and Their Love Stories


Cast: Raj Tarun, Manisha Kandkur, Abhirami, Ammu Abhirami, Hyper Aadi, Goparaju Ramana, Srikanth Iyengar, Krishna Bhagavan, VTV Ganesh, Singeetam Srinivasa, Leela Samson, Rachcha Ravi, and others.



Director: J. Sivasai Vardhan



Music: Shekhar Chandra



Cinematography: Nagesh Banell



Producer: N.V. Kiran Kumar



Presented by: Maruthi



Release Date: 13-09-2024



Raj Tarun stars in the recently released film 'Bhale Unnade!' with Manisha Kandkur as the heroine, directed by J. Sivasai Vardhan. Produced by N.V. Kiran Kumar under the Ravi Kiran Arts banner and presented by Maruthi's team, the film's trailer and teaser have already garnered interest. This is Raj Tarun's third film released within a month. After the previous two films failed to impress, Raj Tarun has high hopes for 'Bhale Unnade!' How does the film fare? Did it bring success to Raj Tarun? Let's find out in this review.







Plot



Radha (Raj Tarun) works as a saree draper in Visakhapatnam. Raised by his mother Gauri (Abhirami) after his father's early death, he helps her out. Krishna (Manisha), a new employee at the bank where Gauri works, becomes close to Gauri. Krishna enjoys the lunch boxes Radha prepares for his mother and falls in love with Radha's cooking without even seeing his face. Similarly, Radha falls for Krishna through the letters she sends with the lunch box without meeting her. As they prepare for marriage with their elders' consent, Krishna's friend reveals something shocking at the engagement. This raises doubts about Radha's suitability. What happens next? What test does Krishna set for Radha? Why does Radha keep a distance from women? Did their wedding take place?







Performance



Raj Tarun, as Radha, is captivating throughout the film. His acting has more scope compared to his previous films, and his emotional expressions are compelling. Manisha looks beautiful as Krishna, and their chemistry is well-portrayed. Abhirami, as the mother, captures the audience's attention. Even though Singeetam Srinivasa appears only in a few scenes, he leaves a strong impact. Ammu Abhirami, Goparaju Ramana, and Srikanth Iyengar play their parts within their limits. Hyper Aadi and Nellore Sudarshan provide occasional comic relief. The rest of the cast performed adequately within their roles.







Direction



Director J. Sivasai Vardhan crafted this film with a concept of how modern society and women perceive a man aspiring to be like Lord Rama. The first half flows pleasantly with the love track between the hero and heroine and the bond between mother and son, anchored around the lunch box as a medium of their love letters. The twist at the engagement concludes the first half. The second half takes Radha on a background of why he distances himself from women, although it drags compared to the first half. The tests imposed on the hero in a Kerala ashram and the antics of Srikanth Iyengar do not pan out well. The way Radha and Krishna break up also lacks novelty. The climax is another weak point of the film.







Technically



Technically, the cinematographer does a great job with vibrant and fresh visuals. Shekhar Chandra’s music does not leave a lasting impression. The background score is passable, and the editing is fine. The production values are high.







Plus Points



- Raj Tarun's acting



- Story background



- First half



Minus Points



- Lack of commercial elements



- Second half



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 3/5


Raj Tarun's Bhale Unnade Movie Review:  A Beautiful First Half Fades Into Predictability


Cast: Nivetha Thomas, Priyadarshi, Vishwadev R, Gauthami, Bhagyaraj, Krishna Teja, Abhay, Ananya, and others



Screenplay and Direction: Nandakishore Imani



Music: Vivek Sagar



Cinematography: Niketh Bommireddy



Editing: T.C. Prasanna



Presented by: Rana Daggubati



Producers: Srujan, Siddharth



Release Date: 09-06-2024



Starring Nivetha Thomas, Vishwadev R, and Priyadarshi in lead roles, the film '35 Chinna Katha Kaadu' is directed by Nandakishore Imani. The movie, produced by prominent actor Rana Daggubati, features Nivetha Thomas in a mother's role for the first time. The trailer, already released, has heightened expectations. The movie is set to release on September 6 in Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam, but a special premiere was held for the press one day earlier. How did the film turn out? Did Nivetha’s new venture succeed? Let's examine in this review.







Plot



Prasad (Vishwadev) and Saraswati (Nivetha Thomas) are a middle-class couple. For Saraswati, her husband and two sons, Arun and Varun, are her world. Arun, the elder son, studies in the sixth grade and struggles with math. His logical questions often leave teachers without answers. As a result, the math teacher Chanakya (Priyadarshi) challenges him by setting the bar at achieving at least 35 marks in math to stay in school, labeling him "Zero" for his continuous poor performance. This forces Arun to sit in his younger brother’s class. How does Arun handle this situation? How does he become a hero in his class? What does his mother Saraswati, who failed tenth grade, do to help her son understand math? Did Arun manage to score the necessary 35 marks? That forms the rest of the story.







Performances



Nivetha Thomas excels as Saraswati, embodying the role of a mother of two, a wife, and an educator with finesse. Her expressions and emotional depth stand out. Priyadarshi, as the math teacher Chanakya, delivers a memorable performance, portraying a strict yet caring teacher. The dynamic between Nivetha and Chanakya is one of the pillars of this film. Vishwadev does well as the husband. The two children playing Arun and Varun captivate with their performances. Bhagyaraj, Krishna Teja, and others contribute significantly in other key roles.







Direction



Director Nandakishore Imani crafted '35 Chinna Katha Kaadu' with a message-oriented approach, highlighting flaws in the educational system. He also explores how teachers should interact with students and the dynamics between spouses. The first half is filled with humor and family emotions, which are engaging. The chemistry between Nivetha Thomas and Vishwadev, portraying middle-class life, is well depicted. The school environment and the challenges faced by students are convincingly shown. Emotional scenes in the family in the second half are touching. However, the film’s pace can be slow at times, and the lack of commercial elements and some dialogues might not hit the mark with all viewers.







Technically



In the technical department, the music and cinematography are well-executed. Vivek Sagar’s background score is a significant plus, enhancing the emotional scenes. The editing is decent, though a tighter cut in some dragging scenes would have been beneficial. The production values are high, reflecting a no-compromise approach in terms of quality.







Plus Points



- Engaging narrative



- Performances by Nivetha and Priyadarshi



- Emotional scenes



Minus Points



- Slow narration



- Lack of high points in the story



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating : 3/5


35 Chinna Katha Kaadu Review: A Heartfelt Tale of Family, Education, and Triumph with Stellar Performances


Cast: Dev Gill, Chitra Shukla, Tejaswini Pandit, Praveen Tarde, Posani Krishna Murali, Sayaji Shinde, Prabhakar, and others



Director: Peta Trikoti



Screenplay and Dialogue: Prasad Varma



Music: Ravi Basrur



Editor: Tammi Raju



Producers: Dev Gill, Mihir Sudhir, Ashwani Kumar Mishra



Release Date: August 30, 2024



Actor Dev Gill, known for his role as a villain in Magadheera, has gained recognition in several Telugu films. His latest film as a protagonist, 'Aho! Vikramarka,directed by Trikoti, is released on August 30. How did the film turn out? Did hero Dev Gill succeed? Let's find out in this review.







Plot



In Pune, 1200 laborers from a colony disappear without a trace for 25 years, leaving their families in despair, not knowing whether they are alive or dead. During this period, Vikramarka (Dev Gill) is transferred to the Pune police station as an SI. Initially, he colluded with the drug mafia led by Bilal (Posani Krishna Murali). Influenced by his girlfriend Archana (Chitra Shukla), he transforms into an honest police officer. What incident prompted Vikramarka's change? What happened to the missing laborers? Was Vikramarka able to save them? What challenges did he face in this process? This is the story.







Performances



Dev Gill has shown his mark in action scenes. With experience playing villains in various films, he seemed to handle action effortlessly. However, he struggled significantly in love scenes and emotional sequences, failing to express emotions convincingly. Chitra Shukla delivered a solid performance as the heroine, fitting well into her role. Praveen and Tejaswini Pandit, as the villain and ACP Bhavani respectively, were compelling. Posani Krishna Murali and Sayaji Shinde impressed with their seasoned acting. The rest of the cast was satisfactory.







Direction



Directed by Peta Trikoti, the film reminds one of Telugu hits like 'Temper' and 'Pataas.' However, the plot lacks novelty, and the narration isn't engaging. The director failed to extract compelling performances corresponding to the story's demands. The love track between the hero and heroine feels quite tedious, and Dev Gill's romantic looks recall his villain roles. Nonetheless, Trikoti made an effort to showcase his style in the fight scenes, which are somewhat interesting when the hero confronts the villains.







Technically...



The art department performed well. Ravi Basrur's music was underwhelming, though the background score was passable in places. The production values were high, with no compromise on the budget.







Plus Points



Action sequences



Production values



Minus Points



Story and narration



Hero's acting



Scenes lacking logic



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 1.5/5


Aho Vikramarka Movie Review: Dev Gill's 'Aho! Vikramarka' Struggles to Impress


Cast: Jagapathi Babu, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Vashistha N. Simha, Divi Vadthya, Kabir Duhan Singh, Sreenath Maganti



Director: Murali Manohar



Music: Krishna Saurabh



Producers: Sampath Nandi, D. Rajendra Reddy



Release Date: 09-08-2024



The film 'Simbaa,' directed by Murali Manohar and featuring Jagapathi Babu and Anasuya Bharadwaj in key roles, falls under the supernatural crime thriller genre. This cinema has been co-produced by prominent directors Sampath Nandi and Dasari Rajendra Reddy and was released to audiences on August 9. Let's evaluate the film's impact and its reception among the viewers in this review.







Plot



In Hyderabad, a key figure from the Partha Group is murdered. During the investigation of this case, another individual from the same group is also killed. The police conclude that a school teacher, Akshika (Anasuya), and an investigative journalist, Fazil (Sreenath Maganti), are involved. They are arrested, but amidst their custody, another murder occurs in full view of everyone. A prominent doctor's involvement complicates the case further. What is the motive behind these murders? Why are individuals associated with Partha (Kabir Singh) being targeted? What is the connection of the Forest Man, Purushottam Reddy (Jagapathi Babu), to these murders? What conflicts exist between him and Partha? The film must be watched to uncover these answers.







Performances



Jagapathi Babu, in the role of Purushottam Reddy, captures the audience with his commanding presence and excels in action sequences. Anasuya delivers a compelling performance as teacher Akshika, embodying her character flawlessly. Divi, Sreenath Maganti, and Vashistha Simha also engage well in their roles, with Vashistha Simha's portrayal as the investigative officer being particularly notable. Senior actors Gautami and Kasturi add charm in secondary roles. Kabir, portraying the antagonist, was adequate. The rest of the cast performed well within their roles.







Direction



Director Murali Manohar has attempted to blend environmental themes into a crime and investigative story. The introduction of Anasuya’s character, the love track between Divi and Sreenath Maganti, and the dual murder events are well-handled in the first half. However, the police investigation scenes feel routine and lack logical progression. In the second half, Jagapathi Babu’s entrance as the Forest Man, emphasizing tree conservation and love for nature, brings thought-provoking scenes. Nonetheless, the lack of impactful dialogue means the director’s message doesn’t resonate strongly with the audience. The concept of 'biological memory' is intriguing in the film. A better presentation of the Forest Man episode could have enhanced the impact. Overall, although the movie's concept is interesting, the director fails to effectively convey it to the audience.







Technically



On the technical front, Krishna Saurabh’s background music is a highlight, elevating several scenes effectively. Krishnaprasad’s cinematography is commendable, and the editing is adequate. The production values are high.







Plus Points



- Performances by Jagapathi Babu and Anasuya



- The environmental message



- The secondary meanings



Minus Points



- Lack of engaging narrative



- Dragged scenes



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 2.5/5


Simbaa Movie Review: Supernatural Thrills Meet Crime Drama in 'Simbaa'


Cast: Priyadarshi, Nabha Natesh, Brahmanandam, Vishnu, Krishna Teja, Ananya Nagalla, Muralidhar Goud, among others.



Written and Directed by: Aswin Ram



Music by: Vivek Sagar



Cinematography: Naresh Ramadurai



Dialogues by: Hemanth



Producers: K. Niranjan Reddy, Chaitanya Reddy



Release Date: July 19, 2024



The unique romantic comedy entertainer 'Darling' starring Priyadarshi and Nabha Natesh, and directed by Aswin Ram, has already captivated audiences with its promotional material. Produced under the banner of PrimeShow Entertainment by K. Niranjan Reddy and Mrs. Chaitanya Reddy, the film released worldwide on July 19th..







Plot



Since childhood, Raghav (Priyadarsi) has dreamed of marriage and a honeymoon. Working as an agent in a travel agency, he finally seems poised to realize this dream when he becomes engaged to Nandini (Ananya Nagalla), a psychologist chosen by his father (Muralidhar Goud). However, his plans unravel when Nandini leaves him at the altar for another man. Heartbroken and on the brink of despair, Raghav's life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Anandi (Nabha Natesh). The two quickly fall in love and marry, but on their wedding night, Raghav discovers that Anandi has multiple personality disorder, hosting five distinct personalities: Aadi, Maya, Jhansi, Papa, and Srisri. The unfolding challenges Raghav faces with Anandi’s complex condition promise a story filled with intrigue and emotion. To uncover the full story, one must head to the theaters.







Performance



Priyadarsi, once again, charms as Raghav, fitting perfectly into his role with his distinctive comedic timing, delighting the audience. Nabha Natesh excels in a challenging role with various facets, carrying the film on her shoulders with a career-best performance. She brilliantly displays the variations of her split personalities. The funny scenes between Nabha Natesh and Priyadarsi are engaging, though the dubbing for Nabha Natesh's role could have been better. Supporting actors like Ananya Nagalla and Muralidhar Goud play their parts within limits. Guest appearances by Suhas, Brahmanandam, and Niharika Konidela also shine.







Direction



Director Aswin Ram attempts to present the complex concept of multiple personality disorder in a humorous light. The first half is swiftly paced with sequences of wedding preparations, a halted marriage, a suicide attempt, and the quick marriage to Anandi all unfolding in an entertaining manner. While the first half thrills and amuses the audience, the story seems to dull down in the second half. The backstory of the heroine and the repetitive narrative might bore the audience. The climax is particularly confusing. Despite the innovation, director Aswin Ram struggles to keep the film engaging throughout.







Technically



On the technical front, the cinematography is a major plus for the film, providing fresh visuals. Vivek Sagar’s music, however, does not make a significant impact. The editing could have been tighter. The production values are high, with no compromises on the budget.







Plus Points



- Performances by Priyadarsi and Nabha Natesh



- Comedy



- Cinematography



Minus Points



- Second half



- Screenplay



- Music



Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 2.5/5


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