Release Date: February 14, 2025

Rating: 3.5/5

Starring: Amma Raagin Raj, Ankita Naskar, Rohit, Esther Noronha, Satyam Rajesh, Ajay, Mukku Avinash, Rajeev Kanakala, Vijji Chandrashekar, Sravan, Indraja and others

Director: Amma Rajasekhar

Producers: Sreenivasa Goud

Music Director: Dharma Teja

Cinematographer: Shyam K Naidu

Editor: Shiva Sarni

Plot: The story follows a man who, while his mother’s lover is far away and suffering from illness, embarks on a journey to meet his biological father, who is the lover of his mother. How will he approach his father’s family? What challenges will he face along the way? What role does the girl he meets play in his life? What problems arise in their family, and how will they be resolved? Will the parents reunite in the end? To find out the answers to these questions, you’ll have to watch the movie on the big screen.

Performances: Since Thala marks the debut of Amma Raagin Raj, it’s essential to highlight his acting skills. Despite being a newcomer, he delivered an impressive performance, showcasing clarity and emotion in every scene. His portrayal establishes him as a talented actor right from his first film. Ankita Naskar’s performance alongside Raagin Raj was equally commendable, adding depth to their on-screen chemistry. Rohit, returning after a hiatus, brought vitality to his character as the father. Esther Noronha, known for her emotional and comedic roles, performed well, balancing both aspects with ease. The negative characters, played by Ajay, Satyam Rajesh, Mukku Avinash, Rajeev Kanakala, and Indraja, were perfectly suited to their roles, enhancing the film’s appeal. Overall, the stellar performances contributed to the film’s success.

Technical Aspects: The story is the heart of this film. As showcased in the trailer, it revolves around a son’s relentless dedication to his mother, against the backdrop of a society where sacrifices are often made for daughters. Amma Rajasekhar successfully translates this story onto the screen, ensuring the screenplay flows smoothly and is easy to follow. The songs were choreographed with precision, and the dance steps complemented the music well. The background score added extra impact to the narrative. Notably, the action sequences and the interval twist stand out as some of the film’s major highlights. The production values were top-notch, with impressive VFX work and no compromises in the technical aspects. Shyam K. Naidu’s cinematography brings a distinct style to the film, making it visually appealing. The film’s editor deserves praise for their impeccable work, ensuring the story stays engaging without unnecessary lags. The film also features remarkable location shots, particularly filmed in real locations across Uttar Pradesh, giving it a fresh feel.

Highlights:

Strong storyline and direction

Excellent performances by the cast

Catchy songs and engaging choreography

Cinematography and editing work

Stunning VFX and production quality

Drawbacks:

Some parts of the music could have been more impactful

A bit too much violence at certain points

Final Thoughts: Thala stands out as an emotional film about family, love, and sacrifice, carving a place among the many films that explore motherly sentiments. With its strong emotional core, this film is ideal for family viewing.

Rating: 3.5/5

Release Date: January 24, 2025

Rating: 2.75/5

Cast: Sukriti Veni Bandreddi, Ananda Chakrapani, Rag Mayur, and others

Director: Padmavathi Malladi

Producers: Naveen Yerneni, Ravi Shankar Yelamanchili, Sesha Sindhu Rao

Music Director: Ree

Cinematographers: Viswa Devabattula, Srijita Cheruvupally

Editor: Hari Shanker TN

The film marks a promising debut, especially for Sukriti Veni, but the screenplay could have been more captivating. The story lacks unexpected twists and emotional depth, which affects its overall impact.

While the cinematography is clean and the sync sound is well-executed, the editing could be tighter, particularly in the second half of the movie. The production values are decent but not extraordinary.

Verdict:

Gandhi Tatha Chettu offers a sincere effort with a meaningful message but falters in its execution. Sukriti Veni’s debut is a standout feature, though the film’s slow pacing, predictability, and lack of emotional depth lessen its appeal. Despite delivering an important social message about non-violence and environmental conservation, the film may not achieve commercial success but has the potential to resonate with audiences for its heartfelt message.

Release Date: January 14, 2025

Rating: 3.25/5

Starring: Venkatesh Daggubati, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Aishwarya Rajesh, Upendra Limaye, Sai Kumar, Naresh, VTV Ganesh, Srinivas Avasarala, and others.

Director: Anil Ravipudi

Producers: Dil Raju, Shirish

Music Director: Bheems Ceciroleo

Cinematographer: Sameer Reddy

Editor: Tammiraju

Review:

Meenakshi Chaudhary delivers an engaging and confident performance, particularly in her playful moments teasing Aishwarya Rajesh in the second half. Her chemistry with Venkatesh is a delight to watch.

The comedy remains a strong highlight, keeping the audience entertained throughout. The humorous moments between the lead trio feel natural and enjoyable. Supporting actors like Naresh, VTV Ganesh, Upendra Limaye, Sai Kumar, and young talent Bheemala Revanth Pavan Sai Subhash add to the film’s charm with their comic timing and presence.

Weakness:

While the film succeeds in delivering entertainment, the storyline is straightforward and predictable, lacking major surprises or twists. It leans heavily on feel-good moments without breaking new ground.

Despite the ensemble cast, some characters do not get enough depth or screen time. Though the comedy is engaging, fans of Venkatesh might have expected a few more standout moments from him.

The second half feels slightly stretched at times, and some scenes require suspension of logic to fully enjoy the fun.

Technical Aspects:

Director Anil Ravipudi crafts a clean, family-friendly entertainer with humor that appeals to all age groups. However, the narrative could have been more gripping.

Bheems Ceciroleo’s music is a major plus, with catchy songs that blend seamlessly into the storyline. Sameer Reddy’s cinematography effectively captures the film’s essence, while Tammiraju’s editing ensures a crisp flow. The production values enhance the viewing experience.

Final Verdict:

Overall, Sankranthiki Vasthunam is a lighthearted family entertainer packed with laughter. Venkatesh shines in a role that suits him perfectly, while Aishwarya Rajesh brings a relatable charm and Meenakshi Chaudhary adds youthful energy. Bheems Ceciroleo’s music further elevates the experience.

Though the film’s predictability, a few illogical moments, and underutilized characters might be minor shortcomings, its overall appeal makes up for them. If you’re looking for a fun and cheerful movie to enjoy with your family this Sankranthi, Sankranthiki Vasthunam is a great choice.

Release Date: January 12, 2025

Rating: 3/5

Starring: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Bobby Deol, Pragya Jaiswal, Shraddha Srinath, Chandhini Chowdary, and more

Director: Bobby Kolli

Producers: Suryadevara Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya

Music Director: Thaman S

Cinematographer: Vijay Kartik Kannan

Editors: Niranjan Devaramane, Ruben

Nandamuri Balakrishna’s much-anticipated action drama, Daaku Maharaaj, directed by Bobby Kolli, has finally hit the screens amidst high expectations. Let’s find out if it lives up to the hype.

Plot Overview:

Set in a remote region of India, MLA Thirumala Naidu (Ravi Kishan) covertly runs a cocaine operation on the tea estate of Krishna Murthy (Sachin Khedekar). When Krishna Murthy discovers the illegal activities, he confronts the MLA. Meanwhile, Nanaji (Balakrishna) enters Krishna Murthy’s life as a simple driver, protecting his granddaughter Vaishnavi (Veda Agarwal) and shielding the family from danger. Nanaji finds himself at odds with the MLA and the Thakurs, who are key players in the drug trade. Simultaneously, the Maharashtra police are hunting Nanaji. But who is Nanaji really? What is his past? Why are the police after him? How is Balwanth Singh Thakur (Bobby Deol) connected to it all? And ultimately, who is the titular Daaku Maharaaj? These questions form the crux of the film’s narrative.

Positive Aspects:

Balakrishna shines in dual shades, excelling as the subtle Nanaji and the intense Daaku Maharaaj. His performance is powerful yet controlled, and the character elevations are crafted to thrill fans. Notably, the reduction in punch dialogues feels refreshing and impactful. Thaman’s music, especially the background score, stands out, adding adrenaline to the action scenes and creating memorable moments. Pragya Jaiswal and Shraddha Srinath, despite limited screen time, leave an impression, while child artist Veda Agarwal delivers a commendable performance. The action sequences are a major highlight, and the emotional bond between Balakrishna and the child is heartwarming. The first half offers an entertaining mix of action and drama, keeping fans engaged.

Weakness:

The story lacks originality, leaning heavily on presentation rather than innovative writing. The second half, in particular, feels sluggish and predictable. Bobby Deol, though promising as a villain, is let down by a one-dimensional role that doesn’t match Balakrishna’s intensity. This reduces the impact of their confrontation. Some characters, like those played by Shine Tom Chacko, Urvashi Rautela, and Chandhini Chowdary, add little to the narrative. Additionally, the absence of humor might leave some audiences wanting more. The screenplay, while engaging in the first half, loses momentum in the second. The climax, too, could have been more impactful.

Technical Aspects:

Director Bobby Kolli successfully showcases Balakrishna in a larger-than-life yet grounded manner, delivering the action and emotion fans expect. However, the storytelling and screenplay, particularly in the latter half, could have been stronger. Vijay Kartik Kannan’s cinematography is visually stunning, while Thaman’s music elevates key moments. Editing by Niranjan and Ruben is solid, though tighter pacing in the second half would have enhanced the flow. The action choreography and dialogues in fight scenes are tailored perfectly for fans.

Final Verdict:

In conclusion, Daaku Maharaaj is an engaging action drama that delivers on fan expectations despite its predictable storyline. Balakrishna’s powerful performance, coupled with well-executed action and emotional moments, makes it a worthwhile watch. However, a more original plot and stronger character development would have taken the film to the next level. Fans of Balakrishna are sure to enjoy the mix of action and drama.

After much anticipation, Game Changer starring Ram Charan in a gripping political drama has hit the theaters. Directed by the legendary Shankar Shanmugam, the movie marks the director’s debut in Telugu cinema. It also holds special significance as it is producer Dil Raju’s 50th film. With a star-studded cast and high expectations, let’s explore whether the movie lives up to the hype.

Plot Overview:

Ram Nandan IAS (Ram Charan) is a newly appointed collector in Visakhapatnam known for his integrity and strong sense of justice. He becomes the target of Bobbili Mopidevi (S.J. Suryah), the son of the corrupt Chief Minister Sathyamurthy (Srikanth), who wants to eliminate him after Ram’s interference in illegal activities. However, as the situation unfolds, a shocking political twist is revealed when the CM proposes Ram as his successor. The rest of the story revolves around the political power struggle between Ram and Mopidevi, as both vie for control. Can Ram rise to the challenge, or will Mopidevi’s ambition crush his career?

Positive Aspects:

• Ram Charan’s Dual Performance: Ram Charan shines in two pivotal roles, delivering a commanding performance as both Ram Nandan, the no-nonsense IAS officer, and Appanna, a man with a stutter advocating for a money-less political system. His performances add weight and sincerity to the narrative, especially in the emotional confrontations with S.J. Suryah.
• S.J. Suryah as the Antagonist: Suryah brings a strong presence to the film as the scheming and power-hungry Mopidevi. His portrayal of the antagonist is well-executed, with great attention to his nuanced expressions and dialogue delivery.
• Supporting Cast: Anjali, though having limited screen time, makes an emotional impact, especially in her final scenes. Kiara Advani does a commendable job as Ram Charan’s love interest, while Sunil’s appearances bring light moments to the film. Jayaram’s role as Suryah’s brother adds an element of humor.
• Engaging Conflict: The film’s real strength lies in the cat-and-mouse game between Ram Charan’s character and Suryah’s. Their intense confrontations provide some of the most engaging moments, particularly in the latter half of the movie.
• Thaman’s Music: Thaman’s background score elevates the emotional depth of the film, complementing the high-stakes political drama. The music enhances several intense sequences, making them more impactful.

Weaknesses:

• Underdeveloped Second Half: While the first half sets the stage for an intriguing drama, the second half feels underdeveloped emotionally. The narrative loses some of its impact due to a lack of deeper exploration of character motivations, and a few sequences feel drawn out.
• Formulaic Story: While engaging, the storyline isn’t groundbreaking. The narrative doesn’t offer many surprises, and some scenes could have been executed more creatively to avoid predictability. Additionally, there are a few random romantic sequences that disrupt the serious tone of the film.
• Excessive Violence: The film’s focus on violent confrontations might turn off family audiences. The frequent fight sequences, while impactful, can feel excessive at times.
• Song “Jaragandi”: While fans may have expected Shankar’s signature grandeur in the songs, “Jaragandi” does not meet those expectations. The omission of the much-anticipated song “Naanaa Hyraanaa” is another missed opportunity for a visual treat.

Technical Aspects:

• Direction by Shankar: Shankar brings his cinematic vision to life through his portrayal of a power struggle. While the narrative holds potential, a sharper focus on pacing and the story’s emotional depth could have elevated the film further.
• Cinematography by S. Thirunavukkarasu: The cinematography captures the essence of the political landscape, with vibrant visuals that contribute to the film’s overall appeal.
• Editing by Shameer Muhammed and Antony L. Ruben: The editing keeps the film moving at a decent pace, though a more refined approach in the second half could have made the narrative more cohesive.
• Production Values: The production quality is high, with attention to detail in creating the political backdrop. The film meets the expected standard for a large-scale production.

Final Verdict:

Game Changer is a solid political drama with stellar performances by Ram Charan and S.J. Suryah. The intense confrontations and Ram Charan’s dual portrayal are the film’s highlights. However, the lack of emotional depth in the second half, along with certain unnecessary sequences and predictable story elements, hold it back from being a truly memorable film. Fans of political thrillers and action dramas will find it enjoyable, especially with Ram Charan’s compelling screen presence. However, those expecting a high level of innovation and emotional gravitas may find some aspects underwhelming.

After three long years of anticipation, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire has finally hit the theaters, bringing together Prabhas and director Prashanth Neel. With sky-high expectations, this action-packed film promises to deliver intense thrills. Here’s a review to see if the film lives up to its hype.

Story:
Deva (Prabhas), a man with a murky past, lives peacefully with his mother in Tinsukia. However, their world is thrown into chaos when a group of thugs starts searching for Aadhya (Shruti Haasan), a newcomer in town. Deva uncovers that the masterminds behind the attack are his old friend, Varadharaja Mannar (Prithviraj Sukumaran), and the conflict that ensues leads to explosive action. As the plot unfolds, the connection between Aadhya, Varadharaja, and Deva, along with the reasons for their enmity, comes to light.

Plus Points:

• Prabhas returns to the action genre with his power-packed role as Deva, or Salaar. The film perfectly presents his strong physique and intense screen presence, making it evident why he’s the ideal choice for the part. His stoic performance and aggressive action sequences keep the audience glued to the screen.
• Prithviraj Sukumaran is an excellent addition to the film, delivering a solid performance that adds weight to the narrative. His Telugu proficiency and the scenes opposite Prabhas elevate the overall viewing experience.
• The film’s first half shines with Prashanth Neel’s signature racy screenplay. With crisp pacing, impactful action scenes, and high-octane moments, it manages to keep the energy levels high. The interval, climax, and some well-placed whistle-worthy moments add to the excitement.

Minus Points:

• While the first half moves swiftly, the second half of the film begins to drag, with certain sections feeling repetitive. Some sequences bear similarities to KGF, diminishing the film’s uniqueness.
• Despite the strong supporting cast, such as Jagapathi Babu, Bobby Simha, and others, their roles are somewhat underplayed, leaving them less impactful. This results in missed opportunities for character development.
• The sheer amount of violence in the second half might alienate family audiences, and it takes away from the emotional depth that could have made the film more relatable.

Technical Aspects:

• Director Prashanth Neel delivers a strong vision with his action sequences, but the second half could have used a tighter narrative and better pacing to maintain engagement.
• Ravi Basrur’s music score is effective in amplifying the action scenes, though the songs themselves may not leave a lasting impression. The cinematography by Bhuvan Gowda is visually stunning, capturing the grit and grandeur of the film. The stunt choreography by Anbarivu is another highlight.
• The editing by Ujwal Kulkarni could have been more focused, especially in the second half. Nevertheless, the production values are exceptional, adding grandeur to the cinematic experience.

Verdict:
Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire is an action-packed spectacle that brings out the best in Prabhas, particularly during the action sequences. The film delivers a thrilling ride with strong performances, but a slow second half and excessive violence might limit its appeal. Fans of Prabhas and high-energy action films will find it worth watching this weekend.

After 14 years, the much-awaited collaboration between Super Star Mahesh Babu and director Trivikram Srinivas finally hits the screens with Guntur Kaaram. This action-packed emotional drama has garnered high expectations from audiences, but does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into our review.

Storyline:

The plot centers around Vyra Vasundhara (Ramya Krishnan), who, after abandoning her son Veera Venkata Ramana (Mahesh Babu) at the age of 10 due to a tragic accident, rises to become a prominent Minister. To secure her political future, her father (Prakash Raj) pressures Ramana to sever all ties with his mother, Vasundhara, by signing a legal document. The story unfolds to reveal the mystery surrounding the accident, the impact on Ramana, his eventual decision, and whether a reunion between mother and son is possible.

Strengths:

• Mahesh Babu: As always, Mahesh Babu is the heart and soul of Guntur Kaaram. His portrayal of the rugged Veera Venkata Ramana is electrifying, with his powerful screen presence and the unique Guntur dialect adding layers to the character. His energy is infectious, making the film watchable for his fanbase.
• Prakash Raj: Known for his impeccable acting, Prakash Raj excels in his role as Mahesh Babu’s grandfather and the cunning politician. His performance adds significant value to the film, especially in scenes with Mahesh Babu.
• Ramya Krishnan: Although her screen time is limited, Ramya Krishnan leaves a lasting impression with her nuanced performance. Her character’s journey has a quiet yet strong emotional impact on the audience.
• Comedy: The banter between Mahesh Babu and Vennela Kishore provides genuine comedic relief, giving the audience some much-needed moments of laughter.

Weaknesses:

• Weak Narrative: Unfortunately, the film’s narrative is one of its major downfalls. Despite a promising premise, the screenplay falters, and the emotional moments fail to resonate deeply. The story struggles to maintain momentum, and the lack of depth in the script hinders its overall appeal.
• Underutilized Cast: Many talented actors, including Meenakshi Chaudhary, Rahul Ravindran, and Jagapathi Babu, are given very little to do. Their potential is wasted in a script that doesn’t fully leverage their skills.
• Pacing Issues: The film begins with promise but loses steam as it progresses, particularly in the first half. The second half, which could have been more impactful, ultimately falls flat, leaving the audience wanting more.
• Music: Though Thaman’s music doesn’t do justice to the expectations surrounding the film, the background score does its job. However, the songs and overall music composition don’t leave a lasting impression.

Technical Aspects:

• Direction and Writing: Trivikram Srinivas, known for his mastery of dialogues and storytelling, falls short in Guntur Kaaram. While the film has its moments, the writing and screenplay struggle to maintain the narrative’s emotional weight. A stronger script could have made all the difference.
• Cinematography: Manoj Paramahamsa’s cinematography adds visual appeal to the film, especially during the action sequences. The visuals are adequate, though not extraordinary.
• Editing: Editor Naveen Nooli could have trimmed the film to improve pacing. The film’s runtime feels stretched, with many scenes contributing little to the progression of the story.

Final Verdict:

In conclusion, Guntur Kaaram manages to entertain in parts, primarily due to Mahesh Babu’s stellar performance and his engaging presence. However, the film falters due to a weak storyline, lackluster emotional depth, and unnecessary subplots. While Mahesh Babu’s fans will find the film enjoyable for his portrayal of the character, the film may not appeal to everyone this Sankranti season. The film misses the mark in terms of delivering the emotional and engaging experience that audiences expected from this long-awaited collaboration.

If you are a fan of Mahesh Babu, Guntur Kaaram may still be worth a watch, but don’t expect a cinematic masterpiece.

Amid much anticipation, Kalki 2898 AD has finally debuted globally under the direction of the visionary Nag Ashwin. Featuring an ensemble cast that includes stars like Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Kamal Haasan, this movie promises to deliver a one-of-a-kind cinematic journey. Let’s dive into our review to explore whether it truly meets the sky-high expectations set before its release.

Story:

Set in the distant future, the film unfolds in Kashi, the last city on Earth, in the year 2898 AD. The supreme leader, Yaskin (Kamal Haasan), envisions creating a new world and begins a fertility experiment with women to find the ideal candidate. He believes Sumathi (Deepika Padukone) is the key to his experiment.

Meanwhile, Bhairava (Prabhas), a fierce bounty hunter, yearns to enter the utopian world of Complex for a better life. As fate would have it, Ashwatthama (Amitabh Bachchan) steps in with a mission to rescue Sumathi from Yaskin’s clutches, leading to a high-stakes showdown between Bhairava and Ashwatthama.

Who will succeed in their quest for Sumathi? What is Ashwatthama’s secret connection to her? Why is Yaskin so determined to control her? As these mysteries unfold, we are drawn into a world full of twists and turns, all while questions about Sumathi’s ties to the ‘Rebels of Shambala’ linger.

Plus Points:

Prabhas, often referred to as Tollywood’s ‘Darling,’ gives an unforgettable performance as Bhairava. His portrayal of the bounty hunter is a masterclass in quirky charm and raw energy. The digital companion, Bujji (voiced by Keerthy Suresh), adds a delightful dynamic to his character. The film’s futuristic technology, especially the stunning car sequences, makes the narrative all the more engaging. A surprise role from Prabhas adds another layer of intrigue, which is best experienced on the big screen.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Ashwatthama is nothing short of spectacular. His commanding presence, paired with minimal yet powerful dialogue, makes his role a highlight of the film. The confrontation scenes between Prabhas and Amitabh are cinematic gold, leaving audiences in awe.

Deepika Padukone makes a grand debut in Telugu cinema as Sumathi (SUM-80). Her character brings a much-needed emotional depth to the narrative, and her portrayal resonates deeply with viewers, making her a key player in the story.

Kamal Haasan, in his role as the antagonist Supreme Yaskin, delivers an intense performance with a voice that adds layers of intimidation. His fierce expressions and gripping dialogue delivery establish him as the film’s formidable force.

Supporting actors such as Rajendra Prasad, Pasupathy, Sobhana, and Anna Ben all deliver strong performances, further elevating the movie. Special cameos from SS Rajamouli, Ram Gopal Varma, Anudeep, Mrunal Thakur, Vijay Deverakonda, and Dulquer Salmaan provide delightful surprises.

The second half of the movie picks up pace with thrilling, high-stakes action. The Mahabharata-inspired sequences are magnificently executed, and the film’s powerful climax and cliffhanger leave a lasting impact. Santhosh Narayanan’s background score enhances these intense moments, making them unforgettable.

Minus Points:

While the second half is undeniably gripping, the film’s first half suffers from a slow pace, which may test the patience of some viewers. The director and editor could have trimmed some unnecessary scenes to streamline the narrative and maintain the audience’s engagement.

The chemistry between Prabhas and Disha Patani feels underwhelming, and some sequences, like the song set in Complex, seem out of place.

Certain thrilling scenes build suspense only to be underutilized until the interval, leaving some emotional moments, particularly related to Shambala and its mission, underdeveloped. A deeper emotional connection between Bujji and Bhairava in the first half might have made the latter half even more impactful.

Technical Aspects:

Director Nag Ashwin, in both his writing and direction, does a commendable job of bringing his futuristic vision to life. The screenplay, however, could have been more concise, especially in the first half.

Cinematography by Djordie Stojilikovic is visually stunning, with some breathtaking shots that heighten the film’s immersive world-building. Editing by Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao is decent, but the film could have benefitted from tighter pacing, especially in the opening act.

Santhosh Narayanan’s musical score is brilliant, though some songs may take a while to resonate with listeners. The film’s production values, courtesy of Vyjayanthi Movies, are top-notch, and the VFX, costume design, and overall art direction showcase the immense effort put into creating this cinematic universe.

Verdict:

Overall, Kalki 2898 AD delivers a mesmerizing fusion of mythology and science fiction. With stellar performances from Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone, this film is an unmissable experience for fans of high-octane action and mythological thrillers. Though the first half may be slow at times, the film’s explosive second half, combined with unforgettable moments, more than makes up for it. Don’t miss this visionary cinematic experience – grab your tickets and witness this spectacular ride in theaters.