
Cast: Bhanu Prakash, Srujan, Mani Egurla, Mohan Bhagath, Ravinder Bommakanti, Anjayya Milkuri, Padma, and others.



Written and Directed by: Ananth Vardhan



Music by: Sanjeet Erramilli



Cinematography by: Muthyala Sunil



Editor: Venkat Reddy



Producer: Vinod Anantoju



OTT Platform: ETV Win



ETV Win, a leading OTT platform, has been bringing a series of interesting films and web series recently. As part of this lineup, they introduced 'Sopathulu' to the streaming world. This film, set against the backdrop of student friendships, has made its way to OTT. How is this film centered around two children? What is the bond between these friends? Let's find out in this review.







What is the Story About?



Chintu (Master Bhanu Prakash) and Guddu (Srujan) are best friends who are inseparable. An unexpected event, COVID-19, forces them to part ways. Due to the lockdown and lack of work, Guddu's family moves back to their hometown from Mahabubabad. Guddu's departure leaves Chintu feeling lonely and isolated. Despite their young age, Chintu makes extraordinary efforts to meet his friend, and on the other side, Guddu also struggles to reunite with his buddy. Will they meet again? Did Chintu's brother's dream of becoming a photographer come true? To know more, one must watch the film.







Performance Analysis



Although there are few characters, each actor delivers a satisfying performance. Master Bhanu Prakash, as Chintu, captivates with his timing and brings laughter. Srujan, as Guddu, also impresses in his performance. Their acting feels very natural and the entire story revolves around them. Mohan Bhagath, known from 'C/o Kancharapalem', plays a significant role and makes his presence felt adequate. Mani Egurla, Anusha Ramesh, Anjimama, and others perform well in their respective roles as per the story's requirements.







Direction



Director Ananth Vardhan has beautifully portrayed the friendship of two young boys against the backdrop of COVID-19 and lockdown. He visually illustrates the struggles middle-class families faced during the pandemic. Starting the story slowly with the background of Chintu and Guddu's families, the director gradually builds interest. The struggles faced by Guddu due to the lack of a smartphone for online classes are touching. The portrayal of Chintu's brother as a modern-day youth is relatable and engaging. The climax is also satisfying. However, the film lacks commercial elements, predictable plot progression, and sometimes takes too long to introduce characters, which can be seen as drawbacks.







Technical Aspects



Technically, the cinematography is good, and the background music is also appealing. The editor has efficiently fulfilled his responsibilities. The production values are apt for the scale of the film.



Plus Points



- Child actors' performances



- Emotional depth



- Music



Minus Points



- Lack of commercial elements



- Predictable storyline



Rating by Telugu.yousay.tv: 3/5


Sopathulu OTT Review: A Heartfelt Tale of Childhood Friendship Amidst the Pandemic


The film "Maa Oori Polimera" captivated Telugu audiences so thoroughly that its impact is widely recognized without further explanation. Quietly released on OTT during the pandemic, this film unexpectedly became a sensation. With its story set against a backdrop of black magic, it received a warm reception from viewers. Encouraged by this success, the producers launched its sequel, "Polimera 2," in theaters, which proved to be just as successful and profitable. Given this success, Dr. Anil Viswanath, the director of Polimera, has embarked on ambitious plans for the series. He announced that the third installment would be released on a pan-India scale.



On a National Level..



The horror thrillers "Polimera" and "Polimera 2" featured Satyam Rajesh, Kamakshi Bhaskarla, Baladitya, and Getup Srinu in leading roles. "Polimera 2," released in theaters last year, achieved significant box office success, breaking even within the first two days. In this context, the movie team recently announced the production of "Polimera 3" and also released a special poster. It is clear that the film is being made at a pan-India level and will be released in Telugu, Hindi, and other South Indian languages. Distributor Vamsi Nandipati is turning producer with "Polimera 3," and it is known that Bhogendra Gupta, the producer of the Polimera films, will serve as a co-producer.




https://twitter.com/i/status/1810894418091692096




Shooting Soon



Director Dr. Anil Viswanath has finished writing the script for "Polimera 3." Pre-production activities are currently advancing quickly, and the film unit plans to begin shooting soon, targeting an early release next year. Industry sources indicate that "Part 3" will surpass the first two installments in terms of spectacle, featuring even more twists and a compelling storyline.







Answers to the Puzzles in ‘Polimera 3’!



Director Anil Viswanath left several puzzles in "Polimera 2" that will be answered in "Polimera 3." The climax of "Polimera 2" showed Komurayya (Satyam Rajesh) discovering treasure through black magic in the temple cellar in Jastipalli. As he goes to meet his wife, Lakshmi (Kamakshi Bhaskarla) poisons him. Suddenly, actor Prithvi arrives and shoots Lakshmi on the forehead. Why did Prithvi do that? What did Komurayya do with the treasure? What was Komurayya’s brother Jangayya (Baladitya) searching for? These questions will be addressed in the third part.




https://twitter.com/telugufilmnagar/status/1810936077869371440




Another ‘Kantara’?



Kannada actor Rishab Shetty's "Kantara," which he directed, became a nationwide sensation with little need for an introduction. Although "Kantara" and "Polimera" are set against village backdrops and feature different storylines, they share themes centered around unseen forces. "Kantara" explores divine power, while "Polimera" delves into black magic. Currently, there is a strong demand for films with unique content in the North. Analysts believe that "Polimera 3" has the potential to captivate Bollywood audiences by offering a fresh and distinctive experience. Consequently, "Polimera 3" is anticipated to make a significant impact at the pan-India level.






Polimera 3: Targeting Bollywood Audiences with ‘Polimera 3’.. Could It Be Another ‘Kantara’?

Telugu Top Item Songs Lyrics List: The Item Songs That Took Tollywood by Storm.


Actor Satyadev’s latest movie, Zebra, has been making waves in the film industry. Featuring Kannada actor Dhananjay in a key role, the movie, directed by Eashvar Karthik, also stars Priya Bhavani Shankar and Jennifer Piccinato. The film received positive reviews and started gaining traction after its first day, thanks to word-of-mouth publicity. Recently, the team organized a success meet. Amid this, Satyadev penned an open letter to the audience, sharing his thoughts and reflecting on the struggles of his earlier movies.



What Did Satyadev Say?



Satyadev expressed his happiness over the audience's response to Zebra in a heartfelt note shared on social media. He wrote: "This success is yours. You’ve said the movie is good, and I couldn’t ask for more. I’ve been waiting for five years for such a hit. I’ve longed to make a movie that you love and to hear you say, 'You’ve delivered a hit.' When I succeed, you celebrate, and that fills my heart with joy. You missed watching Bluff Master in theaters but later showered it with love on OTT and YouTube. I hope the same doesn’t happen with Zebra. Please watch this film in theaters—it’s a movie you’ll definitely enjoy."




https://twitter.com/ActorSatyaDev/status/1861276550337073501




Struggles With Every Film



Satyadev is one of those talented actors who has struggled to gain the recognition he deserves. Despite delivering strong performances, he has often faced challenges in reaching audiences. He hoped that Zebra would turn his fortunes around, especially with the positive reviews. However, the film’s box office numbers have not matched expectations, leaving him concerned. This situation isn’t new for Satyadev. His career began with similar hurdles. His debut film, Uma Maheshwara Ugra Roopasya, was released directly on OTT due to the pandemic. His next, Thimmarusu, faced the impact of the second COVID wave, with theaters operating at 50% capacity. Bluff Master didn’t find success in theaters but was appreciated later on OTT platforms. Even Krishnamma was delayed for two years before its theatrical release earlier this year, only to hit OTT within a week. Despite his role as an antagonist in Godfather alongside Chiranjeevi, Satyadev didn’t gain the expected opportunities. With Zebra, he hopes to break this cycle and has earnestly appealed to audiences to support the film in theaters.







Is Zebra Worth Watching?



Director Eashvar Karthik weaves a story about financial crimes in the banking sector, intertwined with the world of gangsters. Satyadev shines as Surya, a bank relationship manager, delivering a compelling performance. The story revolves around Surya’s struggles as he becomes entangled in a 5-crore bank fraud, with a gangster villain hunting him down. While the storyline holds intrigue, certain elements, like the villain’s obsession with a relatively small amount (for a crime lord), feel unrealistic. The lack of gripping moments in some parts is a downside. However, the film’s freshness and appeal to fans of thrilling dramas make it a worthwhile watch.







What’s the Story?



Surya (Satyadev), a middle-class bank relationship manager, works at the Bank of Trust. He secretly admires his coworker Swathi (Priya Bhavani Shankar). One day, Swathi mistakenly transfers ₹4 lakhs to a fraudulent account. When the recipient refuses to return the money, Surya steps in to help her. This incident escalates unexpectedly, pulling Surya into a larger scam involving ₹5 crores. He eventually crosses paths with Adi (Dhananjay), a notorious and dangerous gangster. How does Surya deal with Adi? How did Adi enter Surya’s life? What consequences does the ₹5-crore fraud bring? Does Surya overcome these challenges? These questions drive the gripping narrative of Zebra.






<strong>Satyadev: 'Don’t Let Zebra Be Like That,' Satyadev Appeals to Telugu Audiences</strong>


Keerthy Suresh is one of those actresses who prioritizes acting over beauty. Belonging to the Tamil industry, she has also gained significant popularity in Telugu films. Her role as Savitri in the movie 'Mahanati' was phenomenal, earning her a National Award. However, her film career has seen many interesting twists and turns. Today (October 17), on the occasion of Keerthy Suresh's birthday, let's look into some special aspects of her life.



As a Child Artist



The daughter of actors Suresh Kumar and Menaka, Keerthy Suresh sparkled as a child artist in the Malayalam film 'Pilots'. She also appeared as a child artist in the films 'Achaneyanenikkishtam' and 'Kuberan'.







Mother as Chiru’s Heroine.. Daughter as Sister



In Chiranjeevi's film 'Punnami Naagu', Keerthy's mother Menaka acted as the heroine. Recently, in the movie 'Bhola Shankar', Keerthy played the significant role of Chiranjeevi's sister. Despite the film not doing well, their performances as siblings were well-received. During the shoot in Hyderabad, Chiranjeevi mentioned during movie promotions that he ensured home-cooked meals were sent to Keerthy throughout the filming.







Stalled Projects at the Beginning



Keerthy Suresh began her career as a heroine with the film 'Geethanjali', starring Malayalam superstar Mohanlal. However, even before this, she had signed three projects as a heroine, which had also started shooting. Unexpectedly, these three projects were halted midway, leading to great disappointment for her, as she mentioned in an interview.







Tagged as Iron Leg



Early in her career, the halting of three projects, and the failure of films like 'Geethanjali' and 'Ring Master' in Malayalam, and her first Tamil film 'Idhu Enna Maayam' being a disaster, Keerthy was tagged as an 'Iron Leg'. She faced significant trolling but ignored it and went on to succeed in films, establishing herself as a successful heroine.







Turning Point with Mahanati



Her first Telugu film 'Nenu Sailaja' was a success, which increased her opportunities in Tollywood and Kollywood. Despite being in commercial films, she felt unfulfilled as an actress until 'Mahanati' came along. Her portrayal of Savitri was critically acclaimed, earning her the National Award for Best Actress and becoming an inspiration to other actresses. Her career graph significantly rose after 'Mahanati'.







Series of Failures



Post-'Mahanati', it was believed that Keerthy's career would have no downturns, and she did receive a series of offers. However, subsequent films like 'Saamy Square', 'Pandem kodi 2', 'Rang De', and 'Annaatthe' failed to meet audience expectations. Her women-oriented films 'Penguin', 'Miss India', and 'Good Luck Sakhi' also failed to make an impact.







Director's Intent to Cast Keerthy



Following last year's release 'Dasara', which was a massive success, Keerthy made a strong comeback. Directed by Srikanth Odela with Nani as the hero, the film grossed over 100 crores and received widespread praise for Keerthy's performance. She excelled in the role of Vennela, a rural woman, and received awards like SIIMA and Filmfare for Best Actress. However, it was revealed during movie promotions that director Srikanth Odela initially planned to cast Keerthy as the heroine for 'Dasara' after narrating the movie story and suggested she gain 10-12 kilograms, which she couldn't. Nani mentioned that Odela decided to cast her despite her not being able to gain weight, highlighting that even though he was a debut director and she was a National Award-winning actress, they ended up becoming good friends on the movie sets.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-PhzFEt9Wk




Keerthy’s Special Talent



Not just her face, Keerthy Suresh's voice is also beautiful. Directors have capitalized on her melodious voice, having her sing beautifully the song 'Pudhu Metro Rail' in 'Saamy Square'. She also recently lent her voice to the character of Bujji Vehicle in 'Kalki 2898 AD' and proved her dancing skills with the 'Gandhaari' album.







This Year into Bollywood



Having already entertained this year with 'Siren' and 'Raghu Thatha', Keerthy is busy with upcoming projects like 'Revolver Reeta', 'Kannivedi', and 'Uppu Kappurambu'. She is set to enter Bollywood with 'Baby John'. In an instance, she mentioned that the roles of Savitri (Mahanati), Vennela (Dasara), and Kalavathi (Sarkaru Vaari Paata) were challenging in her career.






From Child Artist to National Award Winner: Keerthy Suresh's Inspiring Journey in Cinema


For viewers eager to explore new films on OTT platforms, this week promises plenty of excitement. A variety of new Telugu films, along with dubbed movies and web series, are scheduled to stream this weekend. What are these films and series? What are their plots? Where can you watch them? We'll dive into these details in this special report.



Rakshana



The latest film starring heroine Payal Rajput as a police officer is "Rakshana." It was released in theaters on June 7 this year and has started streaming on Aha from August 1. The film is directed and produced by Prandeep Thakur. The plot follows While Kiran (Payal) was undergoing IPS training, her friend commits suicide. After taking charge as an ACP, she suspects a man named Arun. Following his suicide, Kiran gets suspended. Meanwhile, a series of suicides among young women continues. Who is responsible? How did Kiran solve this case? This is the story.







Dear Nanna



A film based on father and son sentiment, "Dear Nanna" features Chaitanya Rao and veteran actor Surya in lead roles. Directed by Anji Salad, this film, which was released on Aha on June 14, is now also streaming on ETV Win from August 1. The story unfolds with an emotional sequence between a father and son against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. It explores the life of Chaitanya Rao, an aspiring chef, and the impact of COVID-19 on his life, highlighting the significance of medical shops and the sacrifices of their owners during that time.







Theppa Samudram



A film starring Bigg Boss fame Arjun Ambati as the lead, "Theppa Samudram '' features Kishori Dhatrik as the heroine, with Ravishankar and Chaitanyarao in key roles. Released in theaters on April 19, it will start streaming on Aha from August 3. The plot revolves around the mysterious disappearances of school children in the village of Theppa Samudram. SI Ganesh (Chaitanya Rao) steps in to investigate. Meanwhile, reporter Indu (Kishori Dhatrik) and auto driver Vijay (Arjun Ambati) also probe the case. What shocking truths do they uncover, and how does Ganesh solve the case?







Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes



For those looking for a good Hollywood movie this weekend, "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" is an excellent choice. This film will be streaming on Disney+ Hotstar from August 2, available in English, Telugu, Tamil, and Hindi. The plot centers on Proximus Caesar, who rules over the apes and seeks to annihilate humans. In an attempt to kill a young woman named Nova, a chimpanzee from Caesar’s lineage intervenes. Angered by this, Proximus Caesar engages in a fierce battle with Nova and the chimpanzee. What are the outcomes of these events, and how do they stand against Proximus?







Brinda



Along with new movies, new web series are also ready to entertain you this weekend. "Brinda," the first web series starring star heroine Trisha, is coming to OTT. Streaming begins on SonyLIV from August 2. Trisha appears as a police officer in the series. The already released trailer and teaser have heightened interest. Jayaprakash, Ravindra Vijay, Indrajith Sukumaran, and Amani play significant roles in the series.







Dune 2



Another fantastic science fiction film prepared to captivate OTT audiences this week is "Dune 2," which was made on a budget of ₹1500 crores and has already grossed nearly ₹4000 crores globally since its release on March 1 this year. It is now streaming in Telugu on Jio Cinema. After losing his father, Paul Atreides escapes from his enemies with his mother to the planet Arrakis. With certain developments, he becomes a savior to the Fremen tribe, who face threats from the Harkonnen tribe. Paul discovers that it was the Harkonnen who killed his father. What does he do next, and how does he seek his revenge?







Turbo



The latest film starring Malayalam star Mammootty, "Turbo," directed by Visakh, will begin streaming on Sony Liv from August 2. The plot follows Turbo Jose (Mammootty), a jeep driver who inadvertently gets involved in helping a friend win over his love, leading to a police case and his escape to Chennai. Subsequently, gangsters kill his friend Jerry and attempt to kill his girlfriend. How does Jose save her, and why did the gang kill Jerry? How does Jose avenge his friend's death?






OTT Releases This Week Telugu: Wondering What to Watch on OTT This Weekend? This One's for You!


Tamil cinema's star, Vishal, is popular not only in Tamil but also in Telugu cinema for his action-packed films, which have garnered a massive following. Known for his direct approach, Vishal often finds himself in the midst of controversies. Recently, he has become the center of a new dispute with the Tamil Producers Council. In this context, he posted a defiant message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, "Try to stop me." What prompted Vishal to post this? What is the nature of his controversy with the producers' council? Let’s delve into the details.



What happened?



Vishal previously served as the President of the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC). During his tenure, he faced allegations of misusing Rs. 12 crores. More recently, Vishal indirectly targeted the Tamil Nadu government and some producers in his comments about the monopoly over theaters in Tamil Nadu. He criticized the control a few individuals have over movie release timings and their overarching control of the cinema industry. Aggravated by these remarks, the TFPC imposed sanctions on him and issued an ultimatum that films should no longer be made with Vishal involved.







Vishal's Strong Warning!



Firmly opposing the orders of the TFPC, Vishal posted an interesting tweet, making it clear that he will not stop making films regardless of the circumstances. He warned that those who call themselves producers will never be able to produce films if they try to stop him. He also attempted to clarify the allegations regarding the misuse of funds in his post, asserting that the funds were used for the welfare of council members, providing health insurance to the elderly and economically struggling. "Didn’t Mr. Kathiresan know this decision was made with your team? Just do your job properly. There's a lot to be done for the industry, including dealing with double taxation and managing theater expenses. I will keep making films. Try to stop me," he wrote in a lengthy post on X, which has now gone viral. It remains to be seen how the Tamil Producers Council will respond to these comments.




https://twitter.com/VishalKOfficial/status/1816832712193573070




How is Vishal popular?



Belonging to the Tamil film industry, Vishal, born to producer G.K. Reddy on August 29, 1975, made his film debut with 'Prema Chadarangam' (2004). Although primarily active in Tamil cinema, many of his films have been dubbed into Telugu, bringing him fame in Telugu-speaking regions as well. Films like 'Pandem Kodi', 'Pogaru', 'Bharani', 'Pooja', and 'Abhimanyudu' have made him popular among Telugu audiences. Recently, Vishal appeared in the Telugu audience with 'Rathnam' (2024), which did not make a significant impact. He is currently acting in 'Thupparivaalan 2', a sequel to the 2017 film 'Detective'.






Vishal vs Tamil Producers Council Controversy in Kollywood!


If you’re new to reading English novels and eager to dive into captivating stories, science fiction is a fantastic place to start. With futuristic technology, bold discoveries, and societal changes, sci-fi stories offer a thrilling escape and spark the imagination. To help you begin, here are 20 top science fiction novels with accessible language and engaging plots, perfect for those just starting their sci-fi journey.



1. The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins&nbsp;&nbsp;



This novel is set in a dystopian future in "Panem," a fictional America. The story follows the competitive and thrilling battles between districts, focusing on Katniss, a young girl fighting for her family. The novel promotes values of equality and social justice in an accessible English style.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




2. Ender’s Game - Orson Scott Card&nbsp;&nbsp;



Centered on the life of Ender, who views war as a game, this novel explores themes of humanity and survival. A great read for those interested in warfare strategy and endurance.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




3. Dune - Frank Herbert&nbsp;&nbsp;



Set on the planet of Dune, this story delves into human survival and environmental challenges. The journey of protagonist Paul Atreides teaches about facing mental struggles.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




4. Neuromancer - William Gibson&nbsp;&nbsp;



A key work in the cyberpunk genre, this novel features themes of new technology, cyberspace, and hacking. It raises thought-provoking questions about the digital world.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




5. The Left Hand of Darkness - Ursula K. Le Guin&nbsp;&nbsp;



This book explores life on a distant planet, focusing on alien traditions, love, and connection. It’s a powerful narrative on acceptance and understanding.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




6. Snow Crash - Neal Stephenson&nbsp;&nbsp;



Incorporating the concept of the Metaverse, this novel offers fresh insights into technology and a future society, providing a unique sci-fi experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




7. The Time Machine - H.G. Wells&nbsp;&nbsp;



Centered on time travel, this classic presents the concept of living in a different world through a time machine, exploring themes of past, present, and future challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




8. The War of the Worlds - H.G. Wells&nbsp;&nbsp;



This story captures the struggles faced by humanity when aliens invade Earth. It inspires courage and reflection on human resilience.








Buy Now




9. Foundation - Isaac Asimov&nbsp;&nbsp;



Written by the master of sci-fi, Isaac Asimov, this series depicts the rise and fall of empires in the future, with messages on strategy and overcoming challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




10. Brave New World - Aldous Huxley&nbsp;&nbsp;



A dystopian novel that questions the structures of society and highlights how ordinary people are often undervalued.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




11. 1984 - George Orwell&nbsp;&nbsp;



This powerful novel delves into themes of slavery, freedom of expression, and personal rights, showing how a controlled society impacts people.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




12. The Martian - Andy Weir&nbsp;&nbsp;



Based on the survival story of an astronaut stranded on Mars, this book combines thrill and science, showing how one can overcome extreme challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




13. Hyperion - Dan Simmons&nbsp;&nbsp;



This novel showcases interplanetary wars and relationships between civilizations on different planets, centering on the region of Hyperion.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




14. Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? - Philip K. Dick&nbsp;&nbsp;



It explores human-robot relationships and offers insights into humanity’s true emotions.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




15. The Road - Cormac McCarthy&nbsp;&nbsp;



A dark tale about future natural disasters and human connections, painting a grim picture of what could lie ahead.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




16. Ringworld - Larry Niven&nbsp;&nbsp;



Exploring interplanetary relationships and alien life, this book is a landmark in science fiction.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




17. Altered Carbon - Richard K. Morgan&nbsp;&nbsp;



A novel that delves into the possibility of transferring human consciousness after death.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




18. Fahrenheit 451 - Ray Bradbury&nbsp;&nbsp;



Set in a world where books are banned, this novel shows the dangers of censorship and the value of free thought.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




19. Starship Troopers - Robert A. Heinlein&nbsp;&nbsp;



Focused on the psychology of war, this sci-fi novel delves into human courage and confidence in the face of danger.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




20. Ready Player One - Ernest Cline&nbsp;&nbsp;



This novel is about a person entering a virtual world, providing insights into technology and human potential.&nbsp;&nbsp;








Buy Now




These science fiction novels will not only entertain but also inspire curiosity and wonder. Perfect for readers who are beginning their journey into the world of English novels and sci-fi.


20 Essential Sci-Fi Novels for New Readers: Start Your Journey into Futuristic Worlds!


Cast: Vikram, Malavika Mohanan, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Pasupathy, Daniel Caltagirone, and others.



Director: Pa. Ranjith



Music: GV Prakash Kumar



Editing: Selva R.K.



Cinematography: A. Kishore Kumar



Producers: K.E. Gnanavel Raja, Pa. Ranjith, Jyoti Desh Pandey



Release Date: 15-08-2024



Having portrayed distinctive characters in films like 'Aparichitudu' and 'I', actor Vikram, who is also popular in Telugu cinema, has returned with another exciting movie, 'Thangalaan'. In this film, Vikram appears as a tribal man, and his transformation for the role has significantly heightened expectations among the audience. The trailer and teaser for the movie have doubled these expectations. Released worldwide on August 15, how did 'Thangalaan' fare? Has Vikram mesmerized once again with his performance? What was the cinematic experience like for the audience? Let’s explore in this review.







What's the Story?



Set during British rule in the 1850s, the story unfolds in a village called Veppur. Thangalaan (Vikram), living with his family, finds himself compelled to join a gold hunt with an Englishman named Clement due to unforeseen circumstances. This journey brings them face to face with bizarre experiences. Thangalaan is haunted by dreams where Aarathi (Malavika Mohanan), a tribal sorceress, uses her supernatural powers to protect the gold. But does she really safeguard the gold? What challenges do Thangalaan and his team face from her? What does Thangalaan learn on this journey? Did he ultimately discover the gold or not? That is the story.







How Did They Perform?



Vikram, as Thangalaan, was outstanding and made the character unforgettable. His portrayal as a tribal person, with the mannerisms and expressions, captivates everyone. This can be marked as another milestone in Vikram's career. Parvathy Thiruvothu, playing Thangalaan’s wife, was adequate in her role. Malavika Mohanan as Aarathi, the tribal leader, delivered the best performance of her career. Her looks and acting scared the audience and stood next to Vikram in terms of impact. Their action scenes together are particularly thrilling. Other actors performed well within their roles.







How's the Direction?



The film 'Thangalaan', primarily revolving around a gold hunt, is subtly portrayed by director Pa. Ranjith was a struggle of an oppressed class during the British era, highlighting racial discrimination. The world and characters created by the director transport the audience to a new realm. The people's attire and societal depiction are immersive. The journey of Thangalaan with the British in search of gold, and the challenges they face en route, build suspense. The scenes before the interval raise expectations for the second half, which, however, feels a bit detached as the story progresses. The pre-climax fight between the British, Thangalaan, and the tribal community leads to confusion, blurring the line between Thangalaan's dreams and reality. Yet, the director delivers a satisfying conclusion in the climax by revealing another dimension of Thangalaan's character.







Technically Speaking



Technically, the film is robust in many aspects. The costumes, makeup, and art departments have outdone themselves for this movie. The music by GV Prakash Kumar also complements the narrative well. The production values are high.







Plus Points:



- Story and narration



- Performances by Vikram and Malavika



- Fantasy elements



Minus Points:



- Pacing in the second half



- Slow narration



Telugu.YouSay.tv Rating: 3/5 


Thangalaan Review: Another Milestone in Vikram's Career


Prabhas continues to reign as the king of the Indian box office, standing tall in collections where no other Indian star can reach. Whenever a Prabhas film is scheduled, other heroes tend not to release their films around the same time. They show interest in releasing their movies either a month before or after Prabhas’s release. Now, a Tamil star hero is gearing up to face off with Prabhas at the box office with his upcoming film, "The Raja Saab". Let’s delve into the details.



Prabhas vs Dhanush



After blockbusters like "Salaar" and "Kalki 2898 AD", Prabhas is returning with "The Raja Saab" directed by Maruthi, set to premiere on April 10, 2025. This marks Prabhas's first foray into horror-comedy, setting high expectations for "The Raja Saab". Meanwhile, Tamil star Dhanush is ready to take on Prabhas (Prabhas vs Dhanush) by releasing his latest film "Idli Kadai" on the same day, April 10 next year, as officially announced by the makers. This sets the stage for a major box office showdown.







Why That Particular Day?



Dhanush himself directs his film "Idli Kadai" (Idli Shop), starring Nithya Menen. Produced under the banners of Don Pictures and Wonder Bar Films by Akash Bhaskaran, the film features key roles by Prakash Raj and Shalini Pandey. Despite Prabhas's presence in the fray, Dhanush has strong reasons to release "Idli Kadai" on April 10. For Tamil audiences, April is significant just like Ugadi for Telugu people; Tamil New Year falls on April 14 next year, coinciding with a long weekend, making April 10 a strategic choice for release. There is no backing down from releasing both "The Raja Saab" and Dhanush's film on that day, and only time will tell who will come out on top.




https://twitter.com/dhanushkraja/status/1854758303399919813




A Potential Setback for Prabhas in Tamil Nadu!



Dhanush has a significant following not only in Tamil but also in Telugu and Hindi cinema. Although Prabhas has a broader market reach, "The Raja Saab" might not face much competition from "Idli Kadai" on a pan-India level. However, Dhanush enjoys a robust market in Tamil Nadu where fans adore him, potentially impacting "The Raja Saab"’s performance there significantly.







More Than a Half-Dozen Pan-India Projects!



Prabhas currently has over half a dozen pan-India projects in hand. Alongside "Raja Saab", he is set to work in "Spirit" with Sandeep Reddy Vanga, "Kalki 2" directed by Nag Ashwin, "Salaar 2" with Prashanth Neel, and "Fouji" with Hanu Raghavapudi. He is also slated for a special role in Manchu Vishnu’s dream project "Kannappa" and has shown interest in a new film with "Hanuman" fame Prashant Varma, whose story Prabhas liked. Moreover, there is buzz about upcoming projects with Tamil star director Lokesh Kanagaraj and Bollywood’s popular filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani. Prabhas is undoubtedly surging forward in his career with these continuous projects.






Prabhas vs Dhanush: Tamil Star Ready to Clash with Prabhas.. Big Fight Inevitable?


Bollywood's beautiful star Ananya Panday&nbsp; steps into her 27th spring today. On this occasion, she shared some interesting facts about herself. She amusingly answered some of the most frequently asked questions about her on Google. Let's take a look.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Ananya 🌙 (@ananyapanday)



Google: Does Ananya Panday&nbsp; have a tattoo?



Ananya Panday : I don't have any tattoos, but I've thought about getting one. I even paid for a tattoo once but got scared when it came time to actually get it. Please give me some ideas for a tattoo.



Google: Does Ananya Panday&nbsp; have dogs?



Ananya Panday : Yes, I have two dogs. One is a Golden Retriever and the other is a Maltipoo.







Google: What is Ananya Panday 's favorite lipstick?



Ananya Panday : I love the Blushing Bae lipstick from Lakmé. I really like its pretty colors.



Google: What is Ananya Panday 's favorite song?



Ananya Panday : I really love the song "Flowers" by Miley Cyrus. It's very inspiring to me.







Now, let's explore some more interesting aspects of her life.



Ananya Panday&nbsp; completed her schooling at the Dhirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai and pursued higher education at the University of Southern California.



Ananya loves traveling, dancing, partying, and reading. She enjoys spending time with her friends.







In Bollywood, her best friends are Sara Ali Khan and Suhana Khan.



Ananya's father, Chunky Pandey, is a well-known actor in Bollywood with over 30 years in the industry and has appeared in more than 100 films. Her mother, Bhavana Pandey, is a famous costume designer. Ananya’s grandfather, Sharad Pandey, is a renowned heart surgeon in India.







Ananya Panday&nbsp; was introduced to the Bollywood industry through the film "Student of the Year 2". She received an award for best debut actress for her first movie.



Before entering films, Ananya Panday&nbsp; was a model and appeared in advertisements, including those for Lakmé.







Ananya made her entry into Tollywood with the movie "Liger", captivating the Telugu audience with her charm.



Even though "Liger" was a flop, Ananya's beauty was well-received by the Telugu audience, making her a popular name in Tollywood.







Ananya's glamorous performance in the movie "Pati Patni Aur Woh" delighted the audience.



With not many movie opportunities coming her way, she has focused on social media. She constantly shares her bold photos, attracting a lot of attention from netizens.







Every small photo Ananya posts becomes a sensation on social media, with netizens reacting with flattering comments.



Despite coming from a celebrity family, Ananya, the daughter of once a star hero Chunky Pandey, is rising on her own talent.







On Instagram, Ananya Panday&nbsp; is one of the Bollywood actresses with the most followers, currently followed by 25 million people.






#HBD Ananya Panday Turns 27: Fun Facts, Google FAQs, and Her Journey in Bollywood!"


Bollywood star actress Sonakshi Sinha recently got married, as is well-known. Sonakshi had been in a relationship for two years with Bollywood actor Zaheer Iqbal, and they turned their relationship into marriage. The couple united on June 23 in the presence of family members and friends. Sonakshi shared photos related to the wedding on the internet, which brought the event to light. Recently, Sonakshi Sinha being spotted outside a hospital became a topic of discussion. Just five days after her wedding, there was speculation online that Sonakshi was pregnant. But what's the truth? Why did Sonakshi go to the hospital? What was the reason? Let's look into it.



Hospital Video Goes Viral



Sonakshi Sinha recently visited Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai with her husband, Zaheer Iqbal. This sparked rumors that she was pregnant. A related video also went viral online, leading netizens to post that she became pregnant just five days after her wedding. Comments suggest that the newlyweds went to the hospital just for a check-up. Some netizens expressed surprise that she could be pregnant just a week after her wedding, making this a hot topic in Bollywood.




https://twitter.com/i/status/1806851946453574006





https://twitter.com/kapil9994/status/1806705767241715793








The Truth Is?



Prominent Bollywood actor Shatrughan Sinha is Sonakshi Sinha's father. It appears that due to some stress, Shatrughan experienced some health issues. Family members took him to Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. In this context, close sources mentioned that Sonakshi Sinha, along with her husband, visited the hospital to check on her father's wellbeing. They clarified that there is no truth in the ongoing speculation online. It has been confirmed that Sonakshi Sinha is not pregnant.







Introduction at a Banquet



Sonakshi and Zaheer Iqbal first met at a banquet hosted by Bollywood star Salman Khan. The acquaintance developed into a friendship. Two years ago, they both acted in the film 'Double XL', during which time their love blossomed. Rumors of their engagement also surfaced around that time. The couple recently put an end to these rumors with their wedding. Before the wedding, Zaheer is said to have gifted his future wife a BMW car worth Rs. 3 crores.







Sonakshi's Stardom



As the heir to actor Shatrughan Sinha, Sonakshi Sinha stepped into the Bollywood industry. Her first film 'Dabangg' was a blockbuster success. In it, she starred alongside Salman Khan and impressed everyone with her role as Rajjo Pandey. Her next film with Akshay Kumar, 'Rowdy Rathore', elevated her status to a star heroine. She gained further popularity with films like 'OMG', 'Dabangg 2', 'Action Jackson', 'Lingaa', 'Akira', 'Force 2', 'Dabangg 3', and 'Double XL'. Currently, Sonakshi is working on the films 'Kakuda' and 'Nikita Roy &amp; The Book of Darkness'.






Sonakshi Sinha: Netizens Target Sonakshi with Pregnancy Rumors, Here's the Truth!

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Liplock scenes in movies hold a certain allure. These scenes, which express one character's love for another, used to create quite a sensation. However, they have now become common in modern cinema. Many star heroines have publicly stated they are ready to perform liplock scenes if the story and situation demand it, and they have stuck to their word. Let's see which star heroines in Tollywood have performed in liplock scenes and in which movies.



[toc]



Samantha



Samantha made her mark as a heroine with the film "Ye Maaya Chesave," where she delivered a stunning performance alongside Naga Chaitanya. Their kiss scenes, especially one in a train scene, became hugely popular among the youth. Recently, Samantha also performed a liplock scene with Vijay Deverakonda in the film "Kushi."




https://youtu.be/uGsFI3FmhnI?si=NO5P0FFGoh7S5W4n





https://youtu.be/5Hi1Ss8blKo?si=4TVKPCplYiPEBi8q




Kajal Aggarwal



Kajal Aggarwal shared a liplock scene with Mahesh Babu. In the film "Businessman," during the song "Chandamama Navve," Mahesh kissed Kajal, which was quite a sensation at the time. She also had another liplock scene with Mahesh in the film "Brahmotsavam" and with Allu Arjun in a lift scene in "Arya 2."




https://youtu.be/f1felGoecKE?si=pVGUjkN0VAIctHJg





https://youtu.be/0oD68xOTg3Q?si=wGwFqNyNrGrzJBSS




Nayanthara



In the film "Vallabha," Nayanthara went all out with actor Simbu. She performed the liplock scenes without any hesitation. At that time, there were rumors about their relationship, which she seemed unfazed by in her performances.




https://youtu.be/GYn1g47mFZc?si=16ytg37esqYLiSsW




Rashmika Mandanna



National crush, Rashmika Mandanna, also starred in two films where she dazzled in kiss scenes. She appeared in "Dear Comrade" with Vijay Deverakonda and recently in "Animal" with Ranbir Kapoor.




https://youtu.be/TSyLvBis830?si=OKi8o_8mIJGrU5dE





https://youtu.be/Ma8GcZXvKeM?si=NfAYyztDJ4AtkNZj




Neha Shetty



Young beauty Neha Shetty delivered some romantic scenes in the film "DJ Tillu" alongside Siddhu Jonnalagadda. Notably, she gave Siddhu a deep kiss at the end of a song. She also had a liplock scene with Vishwak Sen in the song from "Gangs of Godavari."




https://youtu.be/DzegLt5UZuM?si=x8QPhZlMXzjCkUfe





https://youtu.be/GpcIMmvdY9A?si=RUvpds4l1NcH9zYz




Ruhani Sharma



In the movie "Agra," Ruhani Sharma went beyond limits in romantic scenes. She appeared very natural while performing romance and expressions. Telugu cinema viewers were shocked to see Ruhani, who had acted decently in Telugu films, in such bold scenes in "Agra." She also appeared in a liplock scene in the music video for "Dil Se Dil."




https://youtu.be/ooCxCQh1dcI?si=-3Ifodd842oG9k5k




Ketika Sharma



Young beauty Ketika Sharma mesmerized with kiss scenes in her debut film "Romantic." She journeyed through kiss scenes with director Puri Jagannadh's son, Akash Puri, on a bus. She also appeared in a lip lock scene with Panja Vaisshnav Tej in the movie "Ranga Ranga Vaibhavanga."




https://youtu.be/vXjWi6UQDMk?si=PUQ99x3oWOqQ7Ec7





https://youtu.be/tCc3R96puEI?si=LJeyKB98VHuCCeri




Dimple Hayathi



Heroine Dimple Hayathi had a liplock scene with Vishal in the film "Saamanyudu." In theaters, she charmingly kissed hero Vishal. She also appeared in a bikini and performed intense kiss scenes in Ravi Teja's movie "Khiladi."




https://youtu.be/72xq28fxAj4?si=Vlm0s1dAnS2nIK1M





https://youtu.be/LWOj-SxqES4?si=CTGBapB7zFw0giPF




Malavika Mohanan



Malayalam actress Malavika Mohanan recently stepped into Bollywood with the movie "Yudhra," performing bold scenes with hero Siddhant Chaturvedi. She had not done such intense romance scenes before. Especially in a swimming pool scene, she passionately engaged in kissing.




https://youtu.be/QpWysxpVgkg?si=dmIpGe-s9c1qXLpK





https://youtu.be/apzjoosKrHM?si=61ea0jQcIRmwX7d1




Tripti Dimri



Bollywood beauty Tripti Dimri became very famous suddenly with the film "Animal." In this movie, she performed an intimate scene with Ranbir Kapoor that included a passionate liplock. She also appeared in a liplock scene with actor Vicky Kaushal in the recently released Hindi film "Bad News."




https://youtu.be/_qOfyXsMqWM?si=KayuIM_Ucy0eJfEw





https://youtu.be/OWBr0mtA09w?si=PYy7JvnIBwQGeS6j




Payal Rajput



Payal Rajput was introduced to the Telugu screen with "RX100," where she performed romantic scenes with hero Kartikeya and overwhelmed him with liplock kisses. She also shared her lips with a young hero in another movie, "RDX Love."




https://youtu.be/M0A073kZqOs?si=Wem1xfWcBkihcjRP





https://youtu.be/p63JKf879T4?si=4FmfuopZSq25C0p3




Vaishnavi Chaitanya



Young beauty Vaishnavi Chaitanya caught everyone's attention with the movie "Baby." In it, she performed in several romantic scenes. She engaged in a liplock scene with actor Viraj in a pub and also appeared in an intimate scene that significantly raised heartbeats.




https://youtu.be/dFo8klGt58Y?si=pi-dhy59FkD9CHnu




Kavya Thapar



Glamour beauty Kavya Thapar performed a liplock scene with young hero Santosh Shoban in the film "Ek Mini Katha." In one song from the film, she engaged in intense romance.




https://youtu.be/Vbnp6wIf8XY?si=bmWPAr5lWg-YgNOn




Anupama Parameswaran



Once known for her traditional roles, Anupama Parameswaran has recently started embracing romantic scenes. In an attempt to attract the youth, she went all out in the films "Rowdy Boys" and "Tillu Square," overwhelming the heroes with kisses.




https://youtu.be/vm8sg_Gtwf8?si=a0zPMR1VSnhROOIX





https://youtu.be/-GqC3e4K4f0?si=ilK643bC0cRF8Uus





https://youtu.be/ZY6U0N0jxtE?si=kZ1d5zGrK75cP-q-




Shalini Pandey



Actress Shalini Pandey was introduced to Tollywood with "Arjun Reddy," where she performed multiple liplock scenes with Vijay Deverakonda.




https://youtu.be/p8OExtmSVQc?si=a7d-gIT9KwGMbW0A





https://youtu.be/y9nY4xZ7d9c?si=g7NIk_s8k8M1MOm-




Sobhita Dhulipala



Prominent heroine Sobhita Dhulipala also acted in several liplock scenes. She made waves with bold scenes in the web series "Made In Heaven" and appeared in kiss scenes in the Hollywood movie "Monkey Man." It's well-known that Sobhita got engaged to Tollywood actor Naga Chaitanya.




https://youtu.be/-sZwctU1-AI?si=u7O55-nGt5lABZG4





https://youtu.be/ui5J3MMqyks?si=ORhbahScSjs_xvLu




Maanasa Choudhary



Introduced in the film "Bubblegum" with hero Roshan Kanakala, Maanasa Choudhary acted as the heroine and performed quite a few liplock scenes. One song alone featured up to 14 liplocks.




https://youtu.be/ASWoafIYNpg?si=_4DmWUSQO03DibjZ





https://youtu.be/jK5Yz41NqSU?si=I9juu_-cUhn2NCBU



How was the movie?