Tollywood has seen hundreds of films to date, with some becoming super hits and others facing failure. However, certain films (Telugu Experimental Movies With Unique Concept) offered a unique experience to the audience regardless of their box office outcome, introducing something new to viewers accustomed to routine cinema. These films proved that audiences embrace experimental films with the right content. Let’s dive into these movies and their uniqueness.
Jamba Lakidi Pamba
‘Jamba Lakidi Pamba‘ can be considered a trendsetter in Telugu cinema. Directed by EVV Satyanarayana, this film explores what happens when men transform into women, creating a sensation at the time of its release. Even today, audiences enjoy watching clips of this film on YouTube.
Aditya 369
‘Aditya 369‘ is a memorable film in Nandamuri Balakrishna‘s career and the first time-travel movie in Telugu cinema, a concept previously seen only in Hollywood. Director Singeetam Srinivasa Rao crafted the story to fit our context, tying it to the era of Sri Krishnadevaraya and achieving great success with the time-travel concept.
Nani
The film ‘Nani‘ (2004), directed by S.J. Surya with Mahesh Babu as the lead, presented a novel concept. It tells the story of a boy transformed into a 28-year-old by a scientist and involves unique elements like working in a company and falling in love with the owner’s daughter. The film’s ending, where he chooses to return to his childhood, offered a fresh experience to the audience.
Dasavathaaram
Dual roles by a hero are common, and there have been instances of triple roles too. However, ‘Dasavathaaram‘, featuring Kamal Haasan, is unique for having the hero play ten distinct roles. Directed by K.S. Ravikumar left everyone in awe of Kamal Haasan‘s acting prowess.
Dongala Mutha
‘Dongala Mutha‘, directed by Ram Gopal Varma and starring Ravi Teja, is notable for being shot in just five days with only seven actors (Ravi Teja, Charmme Kaur, Prakash Raj, Lakshmi Manchu, Brahmanandam, Subbaraju, Supreeth Reddy) without any of them taking a single rupee until its theatrical release. It was shot using Canon 5D cameras, adding another special aspect to its production.
Eega
Directed by SS Rajamouli, ‘Eega‘ created a sensation in Tollywood by proving that a film (Telugu Experimental Movies With Unique Concept) doesn’t need a star hero to succeed; even a small fly can lead to a massive hit. Rajamouli used Hollywood-level technicians to deliver an exceptional visual treat.
Mithunam
‘Mithunam‘ is a film adaptation provided by actor Tanikella Bharani of a short story written 25 years ago, featuring only two characters throughout. It explores the life of elderly parents after their children settle abroad. The Film Federation of India’s recommendation for this film as India’s entry for the Oscars is noteworthy.
Anukokunda Oka Roju
Released in 2005, this film also brought a unique storyline. It revolves around Sahasra (Charmme), who inadvertently attends a night party, unknowingly consumes drugs, and experiences bizarre events. One day goes missing from her life, and as she tries to uncover what happened, she faces assassination attempts. The connection of these attacks to superstitions forms the crux of the story, keeping viewers engaged throughout.
Awe!
‘Awe!’ stands out as a unique film in Tollywood. Directed by Prasanth Varma of Hanu Man fame, it tells the story of Kali, a girl suffering from multiple personality disorder, who creates characters for each of her feelings. The story unfolds as she tries to express her emotions through these characters.
Manam
Featuring Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, and Naga Chaitanya, ‘Manam‘ is directed by Vikram Kumar. The film beautifully intertwines the concept of reincarnation with love stories, captivating the audience with its novel plot and emotional depth.
Okkadunnadu
Directed by Chandrasekhar Yeleti and starring Gopichand, ‘Okkadunnadu‘ also offers a fresh experience to the viewers. It revolves around a mafia don needing a heart transplant and how the hero’s heart becomes a match. The film follows the ensuing chase and is thrilling despite not being a commercial hit.
Gaganam
Starring Akkineni Nagarjuna and directed by Radha Mohan, ‘Gaganam‘ explores the concept of airplane hijacking, a theme usually reserved for Hollywood. This film was the first of its kind in Telugu cinema and keeps the audience
