10 Movie Review

Movie: Ten(10)

Cast: Vikram, samantha, rahul dev and abhimanyu singh

Director and Cinematographer: Vijay Milton

Editor: Sreekar Prasad

Music director: Innan

Production houses: Fox studios and AR Murugadoss production

Runtime: 130 minutes

Release date: 15th December, 2017

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli chowchi

Story-Line:

James Bond (Vikram) is the best driver and Shakila (Samantha) is the worst driver. Vikram does job of delivering packages for money. Samantha lives in Women's Hostel. During one stage, Vikram gets a deal of delivering Samantha to Bish (Rahul Dev) who is in Uttarakhand. The long journey makes the duo fall in love with each other. Vikram then discovers why Samantha is chased by everyone and how he solves the problem forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Vikram is seen with full energy in this movie. Right from the start he carries the movie. There is no scope to perform other than in action sequences. Samantha is too good in innocent role and steals the show as it enters climax. Pasupathi doesn't have much space to show his versatility. Rahul dev and abhimanyu singh are good in their characters. 

Analysis:

Vijay Milton failed as a director. A slow and sluggish screenplay with irregular narration was a big let down. Until pre-climax episode, there is no proper story. 

Techinical Values:

Imman's music is another big let down. Songs are not impressive. During action scenes, the BGM plays a huge part. Editing could have been crisp. Editor Sreekar Prasad could have worked a lot more on cuts. Cinema work by Vijay Milton(Director of this film) is good. Dialogues are ok.

Thumbs Up:

Vikram and Samantha

Action sequences

Thumbs Down:

Story

Screenplay

Music

Narration

No single interesting element

Final Verdict: 

'10'[Ten] is an action driven movie which lacks fuel after certain point. Skip this film.

Review by Manikick

Rating: 1.75/5

Malli Raava Review

Movie:  Malli Raava

Cast: Sumanth, Akanksha Singh, Annapurna, Abhinav and Others

Writing and Direction: Gautham Thinnasuri

Music: Shravan Bhardwaj

Cinematographer: Satish Muthyala

Editor: G Satya

Producer: Rahul Yadav Nakka

Banner: Swadharma Entertainment

Certificate: U

Runtime: 123 minutes

Release Date: December, 8th, 2017

Watched at Cine town, Miyapur

Behind the Screens:

Akkineni family hero, Sumanth who has back to back failures at box-office from long time. Now he tries his luck once again at the box-office with his new movie release Malli Raava. He desperately needs a hit with this film. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Karthik (Sumanth) and Anjali (Aakanksha Singh) who love each other in their childhood. But then Anjali’s parents leave the village and go to Mumbai. They happen to meet each in a software office 13 years later. They have decided to get married but a little while before the marriage, Anjali refuses to marry Karthik. What is the reason for that? How do they meet again? Will they get married? forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Sumanth and Akanksha Singh breathed life into their respective characters. Sumanth fits well into such roles in soft love stories and so came up with settled performance through out the film. The children who played their childhood roles are also impressive. Mirchi Kiran as Project Manager and other friends in software office are hilarious. Rest of the characters like AnnaPoorna and all others did their job accordingly.

Analysis:

Debut Director Gautham excelled with his first film. Malli Raava has its story in three timelines 1999, 2012 and 2017. The way the director portrayed a subtle love story from childhood and the struggle in the lives of the couple is impressive. The way he executed a complex screenplay and narrated it so effortlessly is very impressive. The twist of Anjali refusing Karthik is well utilized and the suspense is maintained until the end. The director has good command on comedy and generated good fun component in the film making it enjoyable. The scenes in childhood, IT company comedy is clean. The climax is well handled. 

Technical Values:

Shravan Bhardwaj’s music  and Satish’s camera work elevates the mood of the film. Songs goes with the flow in background. Dialogues are well written. Editing is good and there is no other chance to trim any scenes in the film. Production Values are good.

Thumbs Up:

- Sumanth's settled performance

- Execution way of Complex Screenplay

- Music 

- Cinematography

- Comedy

Thumbs Down:

- Little slow narration

Final Verdict:

Malli Raava is an out and out Clean love story with mixing of humor, emotions and comedy in right places.

Once watchable film. Go for it.

Review by Manikick

Rating:  3.25/5.0

Sapthagiri LLB Review

Movie:          Sapthagiri LLB

Cast: Sapthagiri, Kashish Vohra, Sai Kumar, Siva Prasad, Shakalaka Shankar, Prabhas seenu, Dhanraj and Others

Direction: Charan L

Writing: Paruchuri Brothers

Music: Vijay Bulganin

Cinematographer: Sarangam

Editor: Goutham Raju

Producer: Dr Ravi Kiran

Banner: Sai Celluloid Cinematic Creations Pvt Ltd

Release Date: December, 7th, 2017

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Comedian Sapthagiri who failed to impress the audience with his first film as a hero with ‘Sapthagiri Express’ is trying his luck once again  with his new film, ‘Sapthagiri LLB’ which is a re-make of hindi film ‘Jolly LLB’. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Sapthagiri (Sapthagiri) completes his LLB and he used to settle small issues of his village at Panchayathi with his intelligence. But then, he never wins a case in the court. He goes to hyderabad city for better practice and takes up a Hit and Run case which was being handled by a Senior Advocate Raj Paul (Sai Kumar). What happens next after Saptagiri takes up the case and the rest is all about how he wins the case.

Performances:

Comedian turned hero Sapthagiri impressed with his dance moves and dialogues. His performance in the last 40 minutes opposite Sai Kumar is impressive. Kashish Vohra is okay in small role. Sai Kumar impresses in a role which is typical criminal lawyer which was excelled by Boman Irani in the Original. He is seen delivering lengthy dialogues quite easily. Rest of the characters did their job accordingly.

Analysis:

Sapthagiri LLB is the Re-make of Bollywood Hit film, Jolly LLB. The director Charan tried to stay honest to the original as much as possible as many changes will kill the soul of the film. But then the little changes he made. The court episodes are good even though too many cinematic liberties are taken.  Paruchuri Brothers added farmers’ angle to the case towards the end and brought some emotional touch. Saptagiri did some good dances as well. 

Technical Values:

Songs are speed breakers to story narration and the background score is okay. Surangam’s camera work is fine. Dialogues by Paruchuri Brothers are impressive. Production values are good.

Movie Marks:

Sapthagiri LLB is the Re-make of Bollywood Hit film, Jolly LLB. Given the image of Sapthagiri carries, this lawyer character is overlooked.

Review by Manikick 

Rating:  2.5/5

Jawaan Review

Movie: Jawaan

Cast: Sai Dharam Tej, Mehreen, Prasanna, Satyam Rajesh, Kota Srinivasa Rao and Others

Writing and Direction: BVS Ravi

Producer: Krishna

Presenter: Dil Raju

Music: Thaman

Cinematographer: KV Guhan

Editor: SR Shekhar

Banner: Arunachal Creations

Release Date: December, 1st, 2017

Behind the Screens:

Sai Dharam Tej had delivered back to back disasters after a great start. His recent release, ‘Nakshatram’ was super flop at box-office. He has pinned all his hopes on this film to make a comeback. Let us see how the movie was?

Story-line:

Jawaan is all about a mission named ‘Project 3’ (Octopus) which is prestigious project for Indian scientists. Jai (Sai Dharam Tej) is a jovial young guy who aspires to become a DRDO Scientist and then there is the baddie (Prasanna) who is after a mission and to get hold of it for money, he kidnaps the family of Jai and blackmails him. Rest of the story is all about how Jai saves his family as well as succeed in saving the mission.

Performances:

Sai Dharam Tej shouldered the movie totally through out the film and he came up with an energetic performance. Prasanna is terrific as the villain. Mehreen is restricted for songs and glamorous show. Rest of the characters are okay in their characters.

Analysis:

The story chosen by BVS Ravi is good but the treatment could have been different. The Mindgame concept is interesting but it would have been even better if the conflict point is well established. Looks like director is inspired by Ram Charan’s ‘Dhruva’. Second half narration is good. He failed to explain the main points clearly like what is DRDO and what is the main purpose of 'Project-3' i.e Octopus. Saidharam Tej should be appreciated for breaking out from the monotony and doing content backed films.

Technical Values:

SS Thaman has come up with an average album but the songs are not in right place. Music dominates the songs lyrics. The background score is good. Guhan’s camera work is impressive. Dialogues are well written. Editing by SR Sekhar is decent and could have been crispier. Production Values are grand.

Thumbs Up:

- Sai Dharam Tej

- Mind games

- Second half

Thumbs Down:

- First half

- Songs

- Main theme explanation

Final Verdict:

The first half is full of commercial elements. The interval bang is decent. Second half is interesting with full of mind games and is added to a good dose of action sequences. Climax could have been better. 

Overall, ‘Jawaan’ is an okay watch. 

Review by Manikick

Rating: 2.75/5

Gruham Review

Movie: Gruham

Cast: Siddharth,Andrea Jeremiah, Atul Kulkarni, Anisha Victor, Suresh and Others

Director : U. Milind Rau

Music Director: Girishh G

Cinematographer: Shreyaas Krisna

Editor Lawrence Kishore

Production company: Viacom 18 Motion Pictures,Etaki Entertainment

Certificate: A

Runtime : 137 minutes

Release  Date: 17th November 2017

Watched at Asian Cinemas, Attapur

Behind the scenes: 

Director Milind Rau and  Siddharth, who has also co-written for Gruham, came with a bold and smart horror movie. The film has already released in Tamil with the title Aval and  in Hindi as The house next door.  Let’s see the how the film was?

Story-Line: 

Krishna (Siddharth) is happy with his wife Lakshmi (Andrea Jeremiah) in a detached location in Himalayas. Paul (Atul Kulkarni) move into their next door and it has a history as old as 80 years. The history is very scary and even the present events points to the past and help us unfolding the mystery of what happened and why it needs to be stopped from happening now again.  Doctor Prasad (Suresh), a psychiatrist tries to aide an young girl, Jennifer (Anisha Victor), daughter of Paul. In his attempts to treat her he unfolds the major demon that is controlling the ghosts and why is it doing so. You have watch the events unfold on screen to completely unravel the mystery.

Performances:

Siddharth proved the actor in him once again. His performance during the last 15 minutes, is a highlight in the film. He doesn't let his body language or his facial expressions deviate from the story. He does perform well in scary scenes too. Anisha Victor performance gives the required punch to many scenes. Her performance in pre-interval is mind blowing. Suresh gets a good character and he delivers an impact ful performance. Andrea Jeremiah, Atul Kulkarni deliver good performances and all others did their job well.

Analysis: 

Writer and director, Milind Rau doesn't really waste time he trying to set up everything. He is into the story with the opening sequences and doesn't really try to give any chance to breathe once the meat of the scares is being served. But he fails in setting up the final twist in more proper and organic manner.  The better execution and strong emotional core to the back story makes it easy watch. 

Technical Values:

Sound mix is one of the highlights in the film. In Hollywood, most of the good horror films have great sound design and Gruham film matched with that standards. Girishh's back ground score  enhance the fear factor. Camera work by Shreyaas Krishna used many colors to bring out the better impact. He adds many lights to the house in such a way that we can feel the scary ambiance. Editing by Lawrence Kishore is another highlight in the movie. He chooses to hold back the information very well, without much conflict of interest to the story. 

Thumbs Up: 

- Technical Values (Sound mix, Lighting, Editing)

- Siddharth & Anisha Victor's Performances

- Screenplay 

- Climax

Thumbs Down: 

- Romance dose

 Final Verdict:

Gruham is one of the best technical brilliancy horror films in recent times. It succeeds to a fair level and one can get good fear-ful experience watching the movie. 

Hollywood films have been trying to master in horror gene but south indian films haven't been able to compete with them in standards. Gruham attempts to do so. 

Must watchable film if you loves to watch/experience/feel serious horror films, Watch this film in good equipped theater to experience the horror feel. Don't miss it.

Review by Manikick Reviews

Rating: 3.25/5

Adirindi Review

Movie:    Adirindi

Cast: Vijay, Samantha, Kajal, Nithya Menen, SJ Suryah, Vadivelu, Satyaraj, Kovei Sarala and others

Story and Direction: Atlee

Screenplay: Atlee, Vijayendra Prasad, and S Ramana Girivasan

Producer: Sharath Marar

Music: AR Rahman

Cinematographer: GK Vishnu

Banner: North Star Entertainment

Release Date: November 9th, 2017

Watched at Galaxy Theatre, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Tamil Star hero Vijay is trying his luck to expand his market in Telugu states for a long time. Finally, one of his films, Adirindi has got the much-needed hype in Telugu due to the controversies around it. After several postponements, the movie finally released yesterday. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Doctor Bhargav (Vijay) does treatment for the poor for just Five Rupees and he is revered by one and all. And there is Magician Vijay (Vijay) who is also into kidnaps and murders. Taking Bhargav for Vijay, Police arrests the doctor. What is the motive behind these murders? How Medical Mafia pose threat to Vijay and Bhargav forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Vijay plays three different characters in the film and he pulls all of them with ease. Kajal and Samantha are only confined to songs. Nithya Menon is good in her character. SJ Suryah is a good as a villain. Vadivelu and Sathyaraj are okay in their parts.

Analysis:

Director atlee succedded by incorporating commercialized elements in to film which mainly concentrates on social message. He relied too much on star power than his usual strengths of a strong story. A couple of controversial dialogues in the Telugu Version are muted. 

Technical Values:

Music director AR Rahman gave stunning  background score but the songs are passable. Dubbing lyrics are fully disappointing. The camera work is excellent. Editing could have been a lot better especially in the second half. Production Values are excellent.

Thumbs Up:

- Social message

- Vijay 's presence

- BGM

Thumbs Down:

- Lenghty flashback

- Dubbing lyrics

- Post interval

Final Verdict:

Adirindi is a pakka commercial film with perfect mixing of a social message.

The first half of the film has got excellent commercial value but the second half is  lengthy and predictable. The climax is also disappointing without excitement. 

Rating:   2.75/5

Next Nuvve Review

Movie: Next Nuvve

Cast: Aadi, Vaibhavi, Rashmi, Brahmaji, LB Sriram, Avasarala srinivas, Jaya prakash reddy and others

Screenplay and Direction: Prabhakar

Producer: KE Gnanvel Raja and Bunny Vas

Music: Sai Karthik

Cinematographer: Karthik Palani

Banner: V4 Movies

Certificate: A

Runtime: 140 minutes

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli Chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Sai Kumar’s Son Aadi, despite showing some initial promise failed to make a mark on the audience on the box- office with his subsequent films. The actor is trying to try his luck with ‘Next Nuvve’, a film arrived from Geetha Arts Stable. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Kiran (Aadi) is a TV Serial Director who takes a loan of Rs.50 Lakhs from JP (Jayaprakash Reddy) but the serial bombs and the serial incurs huge losses for Kiran. JP threatens to take away his lover (Vaibhavi) if it is not repaid a loan amount in a week. While this is happening, Kiran comes to know that he is the owner of that palace in Araku. But then, that brings new problems to Kiran. What are those Problems? How Kiran comes out of those problems, forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

For Aadhi, who is mostly confined to lover boy roles until now and now he came up with new genre- horror comedy and he came up with neat performance, unlike his previous energetic appearances. But he needs to improve in expressions. Heroine Vaibhavi is okay in her role. Rashmi is confined only to impress the masses. Brahmaji has got a superb role and he is the major highlight of the film. Prudhvi is good as a serial hero in a short role. Rest of characters did their job accordingly.

Analysis:

Debut director Prabhakar disappoined with story and screen-play. But he impressed by handling comedy scenes. Brahmaji as Sharath and Raghu Babu as RGV have entertained very well. The Ghost twist is revealed only towards the end and until then, the movie goes on without any twists and turns. 

Technical Values:

Sai karthik's music and two songs in the film are just okay. The background score which is the heart of horror thrillers is disappointing. Camera work would be better. Editor had chance to trim few cuts in second half especially. Production Values by V4 movies production house  are good.

Thumbs Up:

- Laughs

- Bramhaji

- First hour

Thumbs Down:

- Routine story

- Camera work

- Predictable story

- Heroine

Final Verdict:

'Next Nuvve’ is the re-make of Tamil Hit Movie, ‘Yaamirukka Bayamey’. Next Nuvve is a Horror Comedy film.

The horror comedy film has a routine story and the entertainment works only in parts. 

Review by Manikick 

Rating: 2.5/5

PSV Garuda Vega Movie Review

Movie:            PSV Garuda Vega 

Cast: Rajasekhar, Pooja Kumar, Shraddha Das, Sunny Leone, Ravi Varma, Posani krishna murali, shivaji shinde and Others

Writer and Director: Praveen Sattaru

Music: Sricharan and Bheems

Cinematographer: Anji, Suresh Ragutu, Shyam Prasad, Gika Chelidze, and Bakur Chikobava

Banner: Jyostar Enterprises

Producers: Koteswara Raju and Murali Srinivas

Release Date: November 3rd, 2017  

Certificate: UA

Watched at Cine town, Miyapur

Behind the Screens:

Angry Young Man Rajasekhar is struggling for the several years to deliver a good comeback movie. At this time, a mega high budget film, PSV Garuda Vega is announced with him as the lead role. This movie teaser and trailers impressed by normal audience. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-Line:

PSV Garuda Vega is the story of Sekhar (Rajasekhar) who is an National Investigation Agency(NIA) Officer who lives with his wife Swathi (Pooja Kumar) who is not happy with his job. Sekhar and his team is trying to break a pre-planned bomb blast in Hyderabad but their mission leads to a murkier Plutonium scam in india. Rest of the story you can see in theaters.

Performances:

PSV Garuda Vega has a tailor-made role for Dr. Rajasekhar. This is the actor’s comeback film after a long time and he has given his 100% for the role. Even though age taking a toll is evident in some scenes, he is largely good in the film. Pooja Kumar is seen as his wife in the film and she is decent. Shraddha Das is good and seen in a short role as a TV Reporter. Nassar is seen as Rajasekhar’s Superior in NIA and he is okay. Sunny Leone’s Item Song is okay as well. Rest of characters did their job 

Analysis:

Praveen Sattaru managed to choose different genres for each of his 4 films so far. He is attempting an action thriller for the first time with this film and he brilliantly executed some of the scenes with an excellent screenplay. He managed to get a racy thriller combined with a story suiting Rajasekhar’s image. He revealed the suspense factor very soon in second half which took out the sheen out of the thriller. For commercial purpose, director added sunny leone song and few s

If director had taken a proper care on the second half then movie would be in next level. Even though, whole film is a decent action thriller.

Technical Values:

Songs are okay while the background score by Sricharan and Bheems is good. Cinematography by Anji, Suresh Ragutu, Shyam Prasad, Gika Chelidze, and Bakur Chikobava is oozing grandeur. Editor Dharmendra Karkarla should have been taken more care in the second half. Production Values by Jyostar Enterprises are excellent.

Thumbs Up:

- Racy and tight screenplay

- Few intresting episodes

- First half

- Technical Values

- Production Values

Thumbs Down:

- Few commercial elements

Final Verdict:

Yes, PSV Garuda Vega is a good comeback film of Rajasekhar. This film is not at all a regular telugu commercial film and it's a high technical action thriller.

Few episodes like bike chase,  decoding encrypted codes, pre-interval charminar area episode, nutronium scam scenes are highlights in the film.

The first half of the film is an edge of the seat thriller with some intresting episodes. The second half is quite disappointing when compares to first half after the high expectations the movie set during the first half.

Worth watch. Go and watch this film in theaters only to encourage good films, true passion and hard work.

Bottom line: PSV - Praveen Sattaru's Vision & Victory.

 

Review by Manikick

Rating:   3.25/5.00

Raju Gari Gadhi 2 review

Movie: Raju Gari Gadhi 2

Cast: Nagarjuna, Samantha, Seerat Kapoor, Vennala kishore, Praveen, Ashwin babu, Naresh and Others

Direction: Ohmkar

Dialogues: Abburi Ravi 

Screenplay by: Ohmkar

Story by: Ranjith Sankar

Based on: Pretham (2016)

Music director: Thaman

Cinematographer: R Diwakaran

Producers: Pearl V Potluri, Param V Potluri, Kavin Anne, and Ohmkar

Banner: PVP cinema, Matinee Entertainment, and Oak Entertainments

Censor certificate: UA

Runtime: 127 minutes

Release Date: October 13th, 2017

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Tolichowchi

Behind the Screens:

Director Ohmkar’s 2015 Horror Comedy, Raju Gari Gadhi is one of the biggest hits of that year at box-office. It has got profits to everyone involved in the trade. A second part of the film is being made as Raju Gari Gadhi-2 with Akkineni Nagarjuna which was inspired from malayalam film 'Pretham'. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Aswin (Aswin), Kishore (Vennela Kishore), Praveen (Praveen) are best friends who despite problems at home Purchase Raju Gari Resort but a ghost haunts them and the resort. They seek the help of a church father who in turn recommends a mentalist, Rudra (Nagarjuna). Rudra finds that it is the work of the ghost Amrutha (Samantha). What is the motive? and How the issue is solved? forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Nagarjuna is seen as a mentalist Rudra. His body language and dialogue delivery worked well. Samantha is impressive as a lawyer and a ghost later on in the film. The sequence between Nagarjuna and Samantha is very impressive. Seerat Kapoor wooed the masses with her glamour show. Her character is also important to the story and she acted well. Comedy by Vennela Kishore, praveen and shakalaka shankar is decent.

Analysis:

Raju Gari Gadhi-2 is a horror comedy story in which a ghost helps another and the story is embedded with a good message. Director Ohmkar should have focused more on the comedy in the first half. He did a good job handling two stars in the film.  

Technical Values:

Musuc director SS Thaman's background score is hunting. BGM elevates the scenes. Cinematographer Diwakaran complimented the horror comedy very well with his camera work. Abburi Ravi’ wrote very good dialogues especially in second half. Editing is decent.The visual effects and Production Values are also impressive. 

Thumbs Up:

- Back ground music

- Runtime 

- Comedy

Thumbs down:

- Few scenes

Final Verdict:

Raju Gari Gadhi-2 is a horror comedy film.

The first half gives us an okay feel but it picks pace as the ghost story begins. Even though there is horror angle, only a few scenes will actually instill horror and majorly runs on comedy. The climax sequence is the heart of the film with a good mix of emotions. Director Ohmkar did a decent job with the second half particularly the climax.

One time watchable film.

Review by Manikick

Rating: 2.75/5

Spyder Movie Review

Movie:         Spyder

Cast: Mahesh Babu, Rakul Preet Singh, SJ Suryah, Bharat, Priya dharshi, Shiyaji Shinde, RJ Balaji and Others

Direction and Writing: AR Murugadoss

Producer: NV Prasad

Music: Harris Jairaj

Cinematographer: Santosh Sivan

Editor: Sreekar Prasad

Banner: NVP Cinemas

Censor certificate: UA

Runtime: 148.15 minutes

Release Date: September 27th, 2017

Watched at Prasads IMAX, Hyderabad

పక్కనున్న మనిషిని ల్యేక్ చేయండి, మనలోని మంచిని షేర్ చేయండి

Behind the Screens:

Superstar Mahesh Babu’s last film, Brahmotsavam is a big disaster at Box-office. Later He decided to comeback with good film. Then he joined hands with director Murugadoss for his next, Spyder. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Shiva (Mahesh Babu) is an Officer in Intelligence Bureau who devises a software which will find out the people in trouble. In an attempt to save a teenage girl, Shiva is led to two Psycho Brothers (Bharath and SJ Suryah) who are hellbent on killing people due to their past. The rest of the story is all about how Shiva manages to stop them.

Performances:

Mahesh Babu settled in his character in the movie. He cake-walks into the character effortlessly. Rakul Preet Singh is limited to songs. SJ Suryah is sensational in the role of a baddie. Bharath is okay in his short role. Priyadarshi and RJ Balaji were seen as MaheshBabu’s friends. Rest of characters did thier job well.

Analysis:

Director AR Murugadoss has come up with an okay story for the film. Spyder is a thriller film which needs to keep the audience at the edge of their seats to make sure it works. He seems to have missed a trick in handling it as the story passes off without any high. We also find too much of Tamil flavour here and there. He handled few episodes in the film in his typical style. But the much-hyped roller coaster fight in the first half is not so effective.

Technical Values:

Harris Jairaj’s songs are not bad and the background score is effective. Santosh Sivan’s camera work is the major highlight of the film. Editor SreekarPrasad had chance to trim few cuts. The CG work for few of the sequences in the film like Lanco Hills Episode, Hospital Fight etc is too good. Production Values are rich.

Final verdict:

Spyder is a disappointing thriller from AR Murugados.

The first half is just okay. The flashback sequence is lengthy. The Interval bang gives a feel that all set for a perfect duel between Mahesh babu and SJ Suryah. But the second half drags with slow narration. Few episodes like Ladies team work, Lanco hills and hospital scenes are highlights of the film. The climax is technically good. 

Spyder is weakest of director AR Murugadoss till date.

Review by Manikick

Rating : 2.5/5

Jai Lava Kusa Review

Movie :        Jai Lava Kusa

Cast: NTR, Rashi Khanna, Niveda Thomas, Tamannah, Hamsa Nandini, Bramhaji, Sai kumar, posani, Prabhas Seenu, Praveen, Priya dharshi and Others

Story, Screenplay, Dialogues: Bobby, Kona Venkat, K Chakravarthy

Direction: KS Ravindra (Bobby)

Producer: Kalyan Ram

Music: Devi Sri Prasad

Cinematographer: Chota K Naidu

Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Banner: NTR Arts

Censor certificate: UA

Runtime: 158.15 minutes

Release Date: September 21st, 2017

Behind the Screens:

Young Tiger NTR who is on a high with back to back successes in the recent times with movies and TV show hosting. Now he is coming in a Triple role for the first time in his career with Jai Lavakusa film. Let us see how the movie was??

Story line:

Jai Lava Kusa is the story of three twin brothers. Jai is an evil guy who has a stammering problem. Lava is a bank manager who is known for his honesty while Kusa wants to fly abroad at any cost and settle in life. But then, Jai has a problem with his other brothers and tries to seek revenge on them. He also tries to use them for his political ambitions.What happens between three of them forms the rest.

Performances:

NTR is seen in a Triple Role for the first time in his career. This is the first time any of the current generation hero portraying a Triple Role in Telugu cinema. He excelled and impressed in all three roles. Out of three characters, Jai Character stands out as it challenges NTR as an actor. The way he pulled off the stammering and typical cruel character is so impressive. Kusa character is cake walk for NTR as we witnessed energetic NTR before in Adhurs film. In Lava Character, he settled and acted as typical innocent guy. Heroines raashi Khanna and Niveda Thomas are limited to songs. Comedian Priyadarshi did a decent job with Telangana slang. None of the villains have cruel and brutal on screen. Tamannah enthralls the masses with her oomph in Swing Zara song.

Analysis:

Director Bobby succeeded in writing terrific Characterizations on paper and on the other side he would more concentrate on story narration. Story flow is predictable as Twin brothers stories are confusion comedies.The reasoning behind some of the game-changing moments are not convincing. Bobby and his team failed to justify the anger of Jai and how it got pacified at the end.

Technical Values:

Music director Devi Sri Prasad does a good job with the background score especially for Jai character scenes. The songs are not to the level of expectations. Tring Tring and Nee Kallalone are good on screen. Chota K Naidu’s camera work is not bad. He added colors to Dochestha song. Editot Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao had chance trim few cuts in second half. Production Values of NTR Arts are appropriate.

Thumbs Up:

- NTR in triple roles

- Characterizations

- Interval bang

- Stage drama episode

Thumbs down:

- Predictable Story

- Dragged second half

 - Weak female characters

- Villains 

Final Verdict:

Jai Lava Kusa is a regular commercial Telugu movie.

The first half is good with entertainment and superb interval bang. The second half is more about Jai character. The stage drama episode is the major highlight in the second half and dragged narration towards pre climax and the climax is okay. 

Overall, Jai Lava Kusa is an One Time Watchable Film with NTR’s hard work showed on screen.

Review by Manikick 

Rating:  2.75/5

Kathalo Rajakumari Movie Review

Movie :        Kathalo Rajakumari

Cast: Nara Rohit, Naga Shourya, Namitha Pramod, Ajay, Thanikella bharani, Paruchuri venkateswarulu, prabhas srinu,  and Others

Director: Mahesh Surapaneni

Producers: Soundarya Narra, Prashanti, Beeram Sudhakar Reddy and Krishna Vijay

Music: Ilaiyaraja and Vishal Chandra Sekhar

Cinematographer: Naresh K Rana

Editor: Karthika Srinivas

Banner: Aarohi Cinema and Aran Media Works

Release Date: September 15th, 2017

Watched at Cine town, miyapur

Behind the Screens:

Hero Nara Rohit is known for selecting good subjects but the actor is yet to get the much-need commercial success at box office. He is trying his luck every time with his movies but he didn't get chance to taste the success. He has full hopes on his latest release Kathalo Rajakumari. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Arjun Chakravarthy (Nara Rohit) is an arrogant film star who always degrades his staff. But then, one major car accident completely changes his mindset and perception towards his staff. Arjun takes a break from his career and goes to his village to get his bad character back since he would need that to play villain roles perfectly. What happens next in his life forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Nara Rohit performed well in an arrogant film actor role. But he disappointed in emotional scenes. He looks totally out of shape as the movie was shot a long ago. Naga Shourya is wasted in the cameo role. Namitha Pramod is good as a village girl but her face is not suitable for heroine. Prabhas Seenu's punches worked here and there. Ajay wasted in friend role. Rest of characters are okay in their roles.

Analysis:

Debut director Mahesh Surapaneni has come up with an okay concept but failed to handle it properly. He should more focus on screenplay and story. He focused more on dialogues than narrating the film well. 

Technical Values:

Music by Maestro Ilayaraja for two songs is good. Another music composer Vishal Chandershekar did a decent job with his background score. Naresh’s cinematography is good and he capture good locales of Araku. Editing is okay. Production Values are okay.

Thumbs up: 

- Music

Thumbs Down:

- Story

- Screenplay

- Predictable Narration

- No interesting elements

- Direction 

- Bad theme

Final Verdict:

'Kathalo Rajakumari' fRoutine and Boring

The first half of the film is not bad. Predictable and routine narration tests the patience of the audience. Second half is full disappointment as the hero going to the village itself is not convincing. The Pre-Climax and Climax portions are even disappointing.

Strictly skip this film.

Review by Manikick

Rating:  1.5/5

Ungarala Rambabu Movie Review

Movie:   Ungarala Rambabu

Cast: Sunil, Miya George, Prakash Raj, Posani, and Others

Writer and Director: Kranthi Madhav

Producer: Paruchuri Kireeti

Music: Ghibran

Cinematographer: Sarvesh Murari

Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Banner: United (Kireeti) Movies Ltd

Release Date: September 15th, 2017

Censor certificate: UA

Runtime: 140 minutes

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Hero Sunil is in bad phase as he had Back to Back disaster films in his kitty and film by film his market is getting eroded. He had full hopes on his latest Release, Ungarala Rambabu to get back to winning stream. Let us see how the movie was??

Storyline:

Rambabu (Sunil) is born in a very rich family but all his 200 Crore assets disappear after his grand father’s sudden demise. He seeks the help of Badam Baba (Posani Krishna Murali) who says a plan to regain his lost treasure and it works. Rambabu cultivates a belief in astrology and what problems it brings forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

There is no change in Sunil's acting and body language in recent films whatever the story is. He impressed in dances once again. Miya George is limited to few dialogues and songs. Prakash Raj looked pale due to poor characterization in the film. Posani as Badam Baba and his disciples – Venu, Ashish Vidyarthi and Vennela Kishore managed a few laughs here and there. Other are okay in their roles.

Analysis:

Director kranthi madhav gave some meaningful stories in the past but he looked totally out of touch this time. He has come up with a story which does not have Sunil mark comedy. Superstitious Rambabu, Badam Baba and Communist Rana Nayar (Prakash Raj) have the scope for a good story but the director failed improvise their characters. There is an influence of many stories on the film. He should have worked more on the story and screenplay. 

Technical Values:

Songs composed by Ghibran are just about okay. Sarvesh Murari’s cinematography is decent. Editor had chance to trim many cuts in the film and he totally disappointed. Production Values are okay.

Thumbs up:

- Sunil

Thumbs down:

- Editing

- Poor characterisations 

- Story

- Screenplay

- Direction

Final Verdict:

Ungarala rambabu film is a bore-fest. 

Sensible directors like Kranthi Madhav should stick to their strengths, if not the result generally would be crap-commercial like this film. 

Strictly skip this film.

Bootom line: Bo’Ring’ Rambabu

Review by Manikick

Rating:  1.75/5

Yuddham sharanam movie review

Movie:      Yuddham Sharanam

Cast: Naga Chaitanya, Lavanya Tripathi, Srikanth, Rao Ramesh, Revathi, Priya dharshi, Raja Ravindra, Murali Sharma, Ravi Varma and Others

Direction: Krishna

Story: David R. Nathan

Dialogues: Abburi Ravi

Producer: Sai Korrapati

Music: Vivek Sagar

Cinematographer: Niketh Bommireddy

Editor: Kripakaran

Banner: Varahi Chalana Chitram

Release Date: September 8th, 2017

Runtime: 141 minutes

Certificate: UA

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Naga Chaitanya still in dilemma to impress the viewers with his mass movies. He proved in love and class movies. His Career is disappointing except for very few hits here and there. He is still looking for a solid hit which will put himself into the star league. He has full hopes on his release Yuddham Sharanam. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Naga Chaitanya is on a mission of searching his missing parents. In the process, he comes to know about some terrible and unfortunate truths involving some big politic names. Rest of the story is all about how he saves his family fighting the baddies.

Performances:

Naga Chaitanya is an apt fit for the character and he performed well. Lavanya Tripathi is okay in limited role. Director under-utilized Srikanth's character with limited screen space. The supporting cast includes big names like Murali Sharma, Rao Ramesh, Revathi and others did their characters well.

Analysis:

David R Nathan wrote the action thriller story and helped in screenplay. While debut director Krishna handled this film badly. Film's content looks very promising but the director failed to deliver in interesting way. He tried to make a mixture of Romance, Action, Thriller and Family Drama but failed to impress the viewers. The writing and narration are disappointing. Director missed the few logics in the film.

Technical Values:

The music composed by Vivek Sagar flows with the narration and the background score is good. The camera work by Niketh is okay and most of the film runs in Night Mode. Editor had chance to trim few scenes in second half. Abburi Ravi's dialogues are not bad but very few are good. Production values of Vaarahi Chalana Chitra are good.

Thumbs up:

- Naga Chaitanya

- Screen play

- First half

Thumbs down:

- Climax

- Srikanth character design

- Second half

Final Verdict: 

Yuddham Sharanam is an action revenge thriller. The first half of the film gives us an okay feel but the second half test the patience of the audience. Climax is not so good. Except for few interesting episodes here and there, there is nothing great in the film.

Review by Manikick

Rating : 2.5/5

Paisa Vasool Movie Review

Movie:      Paisa Vasool

Cast: Nandamuri Balakrishna, Shriya Saran, Musskan Sethi, Kyra Dutt, Ali , Kabit Bedi, Vikramjeet Virk and Others

Director and Writer: Puri Jagannadh

Producer: V Anand Prasad

Music: Anoop Rubens

Cinematographer: Mukesh G

Editor: Junaid Siddiqui

Banner: Bhavya Creations

Release Date: September 1st, 2017

Certificate: UA

Runtime: 142 minutes

Watched at Galaxy theatre, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

From the starting day when we hear this Balakrishna and Puri Jagannath combo announced, there is so much of curiosity about the project. First look posters, teaser and trailer boosted the expectations very much. Let us see how the movie was??

Story-line:

Theda Singh (Balakrishna) came to hyderabad from Tihar Jail, who is brave and ruthless. He is deployed to Portugal by a Senior RAW Officer (Kabir Bedi) to nab Bab Marley (Vikramjeet Virk), a mafia don who creates trouble for India sitting there. Rest of the story is if Theda Singh is successful in the mission and how.

Performances:

Bala Krishna seen as a live wire through out the film which is a delight for his fans. His manerisms, body language and dialogue delivery are in typical Puri Jagannadh's style. His comic expressions are good. He is seen in a new avatar as Theda Singh.

There are three heroines in the film and Shriya gets the important role.The chemistry between Balayya and Shriya worked out. Muskaan Sethi is limited to a song and very few scenes. Kyra Dutt is seen in the item song. Ali appears in a very small role and he wasted. Kabir Bedi came up with an impressive performance. Vikramjeet Virk is just okay in negative role. Rest of characters did their job well.

Analysis:

Puri Jagannadh is successful in redesigning Balayya’s Character. We can see a new Balayya in the film. Puri succeeded in giving a good characterization to the hero role but failed to handle the story and screenplay well. Even the dialogues do not work totally. His dialogues worked only in parts which were showed in trailer. Portugal Action Sequence is impressive. The story, however, is routine Mafia story used by Puri in several films and the screenplay also runs on predictable lines. 

Technical Values:

Music by Anoop Rubens is good. 'Mama ek peg la...' song sung by balayya will excite the fans. Cinematography by Mukesh G is good. Editing by Junaid is sharp and would better if editor took special care on second half. Production Values by Bhavya creations are okay.

Thumbs Up:

- Balayya's new avatar

- Few Dialogues

Thumbs down:

- Routine mafia story

- Predictable narration

- Climax

Final Verdict:

The first half is good but the second half drags with too much of lag. Highlight is Balayya’s makeover. 

Paisa Vasool will be enjoyable for fans but may not appeal as such to the normal audience. 

Bottom-line: Only for fans, Outers not allowed.

Review by Manikick

Rating:     2.5/5

VIP2 movie review

Movie:  VIP2

Cast: Dhanush, Amala Paul, Kajol, Vivek, Samudra khani, Ritu Varma, and Others

Story and dialogues: Dhanush

Screenplay and Direction: Soundarya Rajinikanth

Producer: Dhanush and Kalaipuli S. Thanu

Music: Sean Roldan

Cinematographer: Sameer Thahir

Editor: Prasanna GK

Banner: Wunderbar Films and V. Creations

Certificate: U

Runtime: 135 minutes

Release Date: August, 25th, 2017

Watched at Amba theatre, Mehdipatnam

Behind the Screens:

Tamil Hero Dhanush’s ‘Raghuvaran B.Tech’ (VIP in Tamil) is a blockbuster in both the languages. The movie has got a sequel project as ‘VIP 2’. The movie had released in Tamil Nadu earlier this month. The movie is releasing today in both the Telugu States on the eve of vinayachavithi festival. Let us see how the movie was?

Story-line:

VIP-2 takes off from where it is left in ‘Raghuvaran B.Tech’. Raghuvaran (Dhanush) is successfully working in Anita Constructions. But the rise of the company is not digested by the MD (Kajol) of Vasundhara Constructions. She tries to target Raghuvaran and the company. Rest of the story is all about how Raghuvaran takes on the mighty corporate world.

Performances:

Dhanush came up with an impressive performance. He fits in the role very well with his body language, dialogue delivery, and screen presence. In some scenes with his wife amala paul, he overratted. Kajol looks gorgeous as usual. The confrontation scenes between them are well handled. Amala Paul is seen in a limited role. Vivek’s comedy worked well in some extent. Ritu Varma is seen in very short role.

Analysis:

Dhanush wrote the story for sequel of VIP aka Raghuvaran B.Tech i.e ‘VIP-2’. The first half of the film is handled well but then he seems to be totally out of ideas about how to handle the second half. Soundarya Rajinikanth, the director of the film seems to be equally confused. After elevating the confrontation of Kajol and Dhanush to a big level, the rivalry is ended without any logic.

Technical values:

Music by Sean Roldan is a huge disappointment with not even one song working. The camera work is neat. Editing should have been better in the second half. Very few dialogues are good. Production values are appropriate.

Thumbs up:

- Dhanush & Kajol

- First half

- Hero elevated scenes

Thumbs down:

- Climax

- Direction

- 2nd half

Final Verdict:

Dhanush – the writer and Soundarya Rajinikanth – the director are totally disappointing. They just made a mess of the sequel.

Overall, the charm, wit, and humour that worked in 'Raghuvaran B.Tech'(VIP) are missing in this sequel.

Skip this sequel strictly.

Review by Manikick

Rating:     2.25/5.0

Arjun Reddy Movie Review

Movie:      Arjun Reddy

Cast: Vijay Devarakonda, Shalini, Priyadarshi, Kamal Kamaraj and Others

Written and Directed: Sandeep Reddy Vanga

Producer: Pranay Reddy Vanga

Music: Radhan

Cinematographer: Raju Thota

Editor: Shashank

Banner: Bhadrakali Pictures

Certificate: A

Runtime: 182 minutes

Release Date: August 25th, 2017 (Review from 24th Night Premiere)

Watched at Alankar(Pratap) theatre

Behind the Screens:

Vijay Deverakonda who bagged a stunning and tremendous success with his solo hero film Pellichoopulu. He gave disaster With his immediate next film, Dwaraka. His 3rd film, Arjun Reddy releasing this Friday has managed to create good curiosity in the audience. Producers planned to show the film in one day before with paid Premieres all over telugu states. Let us see how the film was??

Story-line:

Arjun Reddy (Vijay Deverakonda) who has full of arrogance and attitude. The movie is the journey through different phases of his life for about 7-8 years. How his love life with (Shanini) transforms into a life changing event forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

One man show by Vijay Devarakonda in all aspects. He is perfect apt for Arjun Reddy role. He is Freaking Awesome as Arjun Reddy. His body language, attitude, dialogue delivery shows the intense of the Arjun Reddy character. He showcased arrogance and attitude at peaks on screen. He effortlessly walks through a character which is so powerful. Heroine Shalini doesn't have scope to perform. She restricted to liplocks and cry all the time. The guy who played Shiva - Rahul(Real name) in the film is so impressive and his dialogues evoked good fun. His telangana accent helped to elevate his comedy timing. Rest of characters like kamal Kamaraj, priya darshi and others played their characters well.

Analysis:

Debut director Sandeep Vanga has chosen a storyline which normally any Telugu filmmaker would not dare to touch why because audience may reject and so many reasons to tell.Most of the times, for these type of films fails badly or rejected by audience. The director knows very well how Arjun Reddy should be to connect to the targeted youth audience and seem to have worked on it very much. 

Technical Values:

Music by Radhan is good. BGM is okay. Camera work by Raju Thota is terrific. Some close up shots are brilliant. The tone brownish-yellow suits the mood of the film. Dialogues are very impressive and contemporary. Youth will connect with dialogues. Editing should have been better in the second half. Some unnecessary scenes should have been trimmed without any doubts. Production Values by Bhadrakali Pictures are okay.

Thumbs up:

- Vijay Devarakonda

- comedy

- First half

Thumbs down:

- Runtime

- Dragged second half

- Editing

Final Verdict:

Arjun Reddy is such a bold attempt by debut director which tells story of a hot blooded young lad.

You can feel like Without Vijay Devarakonda, there is no Arjun Reddy after you watch. 

First Half is good and will take you to a different more. But the second half is a bit disappointing when compared to the first half. Midway through the film, you feel it is getting lengthy and boring with too many repetitive scenes. The climax is well-handled by the director. 

Strictly for youth. The film will have a very big impact on Youth audience. Kids and Family audience can stay away.

Bottom line: Modern devadas gets happy ending...

Review by Manikick

Rating:    3/5

Vivekam Movie Review

Movie: Vivekam(Vivekam)

Star cast: Ajith, Kajal, Akshara hasan, vivek oberoi and others

Direction: Shiva

Music by anirudh

Certificate: UA

Runtime: 149 minutes

Watched at Galaxy theater, toli chowchi

Behind the scenes:

Ajith has huge following in tamilnadu where as he is struggling to show his mark in telugu states from long time. After veeram, vedalam films now he is teaming up with director shiva with Vivekam. Now let's us see how the film is??

Story-line :

AK aka Ajay Kumar (Ajith Kumar) is a most wanted criminal. How a most efficient member of the Counter Terrorism Squad becomes a most wanted criminal and how he manages to get himself clean of charges is what the film is all about?

Performances:

Ajith has a terrific screen presence through out the film. His confidence makes anyone believe in the character and whatever he does on screen. Kajal is decent in a character even though its routine. She gets few scenes to perform too. Vivek Oberoi as the villain is decent. But his character overshadows his previous characters.Sarath Saxena is wasted. Comedy by Karuna is okay in parts. Akshara Haasan has limited role. Rest of characters are okay in their roles.

Analysis:

Director Siva takes the blue print of many spy films and mashes it all together to form a Vivekam film. His screenplay racy. 

Technical values:
Music by Anirudh has an international quality. His back score elevates the scenes. The cinematography is superb, and the visuals are grand. Editing, especially during the fights, should have been better. Dialogues are okay. Production values are grand.

Thumbs Up:
Ajith’s screen presence

Stunts

BGM

Racy Screenplay

Thumbs down:

Thin & Predictable story

Parts of scenes

Cilmax

Final Report:

Vivekam (Vivegam) film is a ultra stylish action film which offers nothing other than hollywood range stunts and ajith's terrific screen presence.

Strictly for ajith fans only.

Review by Manikick

Rating: 2.25/5

Aanando Bramha Review

Movie:    Aanando Brahma

Cast: Tapsee, Srinivas Reddy, Vennela Kishore, Shakala Shankar, Thagubothu ramesh, Thanikella bharani, Raghu, Rajeev kanakala, Raja Ravindra and Others

Written and Directed by: Mahi V Raghav

Producer: Vijay Chilla and Shashi Devireddy

Music: K

Cinematographer: Anish Tarun Kumar

Editor: Shravan

Banner: 70 MM Entertainments

Certificate: UA

Runtime: 123.58 minutes

Release Date: August 18th, 2017

Watched at Anna theater, Mehdipatnam

Behind the Screens:

Actress tapsee has disappeared from Telugu Cinema from long back. Her last film in telugu is sahasam even though she acted in Rana's Ghazi. Finally, she comeback to the industry with Horror Comedy movie, Anando Brahma which is releasing yesterday across the globe. Let us see how the movie is??

Story-line:

Siddhu (Srinivas Reddy) suffers from a Cardiac Problem. Flute Raju (Vennela Kishore) works a Security Guard at an ATM Center who suffers from Night-Blindness but gets himself tangled in a case due to that. Tulasi (Thagubothu Ramesh) is a drunkard who has problems at home and there is Babu (Shakalaka Shankar) who gets into debts as he sells his shop out of film madness. All of them are in fully need of money. They decide to help Ramu (Rajiv Kanakala) who struggles to sell Sri Lakshmi Nilayam as there are rumours that it is being haunted by ghosts. They have to prove those rumours wrong by living there which will get them money. Rest is all about their experiences in the house.

Performances:

The movie promotions are all centered around actress Tapsee but the fact is that the other characters – Srinivas Reddy, Shakalaka Shankar, Vennela Kishore and Thagubothu Ramesh have more importance in the film than her. She gets a limited role. The comedy generated by Srinivas Reddy, Shakalaka Shankar, Vennela Kishore and Thagubothu Ramesh is the highlight of the film. Shakalaka Shankar’s spoofs are hilarious especially Baba Ramdev spoof. Rajiv Kanakala gets a good role after a long time and he does well. Other characters are good in their roles.

Analysis:

Anando Brahma is the story which revolves around a haunted house. Ghosts are first introduced as humans but they understand they are ghosts only after humans arrive there. Until that is revealed, the movie gives a routine ghost film feel but after that, it turns interesting. Fight between the humans and ghosts in the second half is interesting. Film has some hilarious moments like Spoofs and bathroom scenes etc in the second half which makes it a decent horror-comedy. Director Mahi V Raghav, the writer, and director of the film does a good job. A little more care on the first half would have helped further.

Technical Values:

K's background score is impressive and there are no songs in the film. Anish Tarun Kumar’s cinematography complimented the genre. Editing should have been better. Dialogues are okay. The Production Values are good.

Thumbs Up:

- Concept

- Second half

- Comedy

- Shakalaka shankar Spoofs

- Runtime

Thumbs Down: 

- Flash back episodes

- Parts of scenes

Final Verdict: 

'Aanando bramha' is a Horror comedy thriller.

Shakalaka shankar Spoofs and bathroom scenes in second half are hilarious.

Watchable film if you ignore few drags here and there.

Review by Manikick

Rating:   3/5

Jaya Janaki Nayaka movie review

Movie:    Jaya Janaki Nayaka

Cast: Bellamkonda Srinivas, Rakul Preet Singh, Pragya Jaiswal, Nandoo, Sarath Kumar, Vani Viswanath and Others

Written and Directed by: Boyapati Srinu

Dialogues: M Ratnam

Producer: Miryala Ravinder Reddy

Music: Devi Sri Prasad

Cinematographer: Rishi Punjabi

Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Banner: Dwaraka Creations

Censor certificate: UA

Runtime:149 minutes

Release Date: August 11th, 2017

Watched at Bhaskara Rama theatre, palasa

Behind the Screens:

Bellamkonda Srinivas who bagged a cost failure with this first film, Alludu Seenu and his next with a big disaster with Speedunnodu, the Telugu remake of Tamil blockbuster, Sundarapandian. Star Director, Boyapati Srinu who gave superhit film saraainodu last year and now he teamed up with Srinivas for a film, Jaya Janaki Nayaka which released yesterday. Let us see how the film is??

Story-line:

Gagan (Bellamkonda Srinivas) is a happy loving college student who lives happily with his father Chakravarthy (Sarath Kumar) and Brother (Nandu). Gagan happens to meet Sweety (Rakul Preet Singh) and they fall in love. But Problems araises for her from Aswinth Narayan (Jagapathi Babu) when everything looks fine. What Gagan does to save her forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Bellamkonda Srinivas carried his character throughout the film. He excelled in emotional scenes. He delivered dialogues effortlessly. He excelled in action and dance moves too. Rakul Preet Singh is seen in a role similar to her character in Sarainodu. Pragya Jaiswal is Super Hot. Jagapathi Babu is seen as a Stylish Villain. His introduction scenes are impressive. Sarath Kumar and Nandu are impressive. Vani Viswanath gets a disappointing role in her comeback film. Tarun Arora is good as a villain.

Analysis:

Boyapati srinu is well known for handling  a mass masala movies. He made a film with his own strengths. He should have used the twists and turns better. This story mixed of  his mark action sequences and emotions. All the action sequences and the scenes leading to them are well-written. Hamsaladeevi action sequence is one of the best in recent times. Pre-climax and climax have Boyapati mark all over. A better hero would have taken the film to next level.

Technical values:

Devi Sri Prasad’s music is good.Veede Veede Song is too good. Theme story apt to story which is good. Background score is impressive. Rishi Punjabi’s Camera work is good. Action sequences are well framed. Editingis could have been better. M Ratnam’s dialogues are effective. Production Values are grand.

Thumbs Up:

- Srinivas

- Action sequences

- Music

Thumbs down:

- Uneven flows of first half

- Routine story

- Treatment

- Editing

Final verdict:

Jaya Janaki Nayaka is Boyapati Mark Mass Entertainer which has normal love story in which hero does everything to save the heroine. 

If your fan of mass masala entertainers then this is for you. Other wise skip it without any doubt.

Review by Manikick

Rating :  2.5/5

Nene Raju Nene Manthri Review

Movie:    Nene Raju Nene Mantri

Cast: Rana Daggubati, Kajal Agarwal, Catherine Tresa, Navdeep, Posani Krishna Murali, Ashutosh Rana and Others

Written and Directed by: Teja

Producer: Suresh Babu, Kiran Reddy and Bharath Chowdary

Music: Anoop Rubens

Cinematographer: Venkat C Dilip

Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Banner: Suresh Productions and Blue Planet Entertainments LLP

Certificate: UA

Runtime: 152 minutes

Release Date: August 11th, 2017

Behind the Screens:

Rana Daggubati is still awaiting for hit as a solo hero. He is teaming up with director Teja who delivered several blockbusters like chithram, nuvvu nenu and jayam etc long years ago but now he is going through a lean patch for many years. Their combination film, Nene Raju Nene Mantri is releasing today with a lot of expectations created by the trailer. Let us see how the movie is??

Story-line:

Jogendra (Rana Daggubati) is a money lender in Uravakonda from Kurnool, Rayalaseema Region who loves his wife more than anything else in the World. One day, she is insulted by a village head(Sarpanch)’s wife and to teach her and her husband a lesson, Jogendra vows to become a Sarpanch. He not only becomes Sarpanch but also MLA. Later he wants become chief minister. How that happens forms the rest of the story.

Performances:

Rana Daggubati is totally involved in the role of Jogendra. But he needs improve in emotional scenes especially. Kajal Agarwal is a perfect fit as his wife, Radha. She settled in her character. Catherine Tresa is restricted to glamorous scenes as a TV Reporter. Navdeep, Posani Krishna Murali, Ashutosh Rana and others performed in their roles.

Analysis:

Director Teja came up with political satire 'Nene Raju Nene Mantri'. First half is good with high-speed game of chess and Teja has ensured that on screen as well with his gripping narration and well-written scenes. Rana’s performance just complimented his work. But then, the track between Jogendra and Radha is stretched beyond the limit in the second half. The climax could have been handled better. The comedy of Posani and Prabhas Sreenu worked in the second half. Few satirical episodes of contemporary political issues are impressive. 

Technical Values:

Anoop Rubens has come up with a decent album and excellent background score. Songs are situational. Radhamma Radhamma, Jogendra songs are good. The camera work by Dilip C Venkat is very impressive. Editing should have been better in the second half. Few Dialogues are  thought-provoking. Production Values are Grand.

Thumbs Up:

- Rana

- 2 songs

-  Few thought-provoking dialogues

Thumbs down:

- No proper Bound Script

- Lack of clarity over few episodes

- Poor climax 

- Dragged 2nd half 

Final Verdict: 

'Nene raju nene manthri' is Misfired attempt of good point i.e contemporary political drama with Lack of clarity over few episodes that would be raise.

Director aTeja certainly reinvented himself with this film. His contemporary touch to the Political Thriller with a racy screenplay worked well. If he took little of care in second half, it may have worked immensely in the film’s favor. 

Review by Manikick

Rating:   2.75/5

Nakshatram movie review

Movie:   ‘Nakshatram’

Cast: Sundeep Kishan, Sai Dharam Tej, Regina Cassandra, Pragya Jaiswal , Thanish, Prakash Raj, Shivaji Raja, Thulasi, Raghu babu, Brahmaji, JD chakravarthy and others

Story, Screenplay, Dialogues, Direction: Krishna Vamsi

Producer: K Srinivasulu, S Venugopal, and Sajju

Music: Bheems Ceciroleo, Bharat Madhusudhan, Hari Gowra and Manisharma

Cinematographer: Srikanth Naroj

Editor: Siva Y Prasad

Banner: Sri Chakra Media, Butta Bomma Creations, and Win Win Win Creations.

Certificate: UA

Runtime: 166.34 minutes

Release Date: August, 4th, 2017

Behind the Screens:

Tollywood creative director krishna vamsi is going through a very lean patch of career.  He is joining hands with Sundeep Kishan and Sai Dharam Tej who are also desperately in need of big hits with ‘Nakshatram’. Let us see how the movie, ‘Nakshatram’??

Story-line:

Rama Rao (Sundeep Kishan) hails from a Police family and aspires to join the department. He never tolerates a word on the department. One day, he gets into a fight with Commissioner’s son, Rahul (Tanish) as the latter beats a Policeman. Rahul ensures that Rama Rao does not get placed. Disappointed Rama Rao tries to commit suicide but realizes in the last minute, once can serve justice even without being a Police. But then Rama Rao lands himself in a Bomb Blast Case. What happens next in his life forms the next.

Performances:

Actors always treat Krishna Vamsi’s film as a milestone in actor's careers as the director is known to project the best in them. Sundeep Kishan impresses as a mass guy and also did a decent performance in emotional scenes. Sai Dharam Tej is good in a 30 minutes role. Regina cassandra is only limited to glamour while Pragya Jaiswal also got to perform some action along with skin show. Prakash Raj, JD Chakravarthy, Sivaji Raja and Raghu babu are good in the roles.

Analysis:

Krishna Vamsi’s last film released three years ago i.e govindhudu andarivadele which is flop at boxoffice and ‘Nakshatram’ is important film for his career. He disappointed with his screenplay and direction. He lost his charm as he is famous in. The lack of clarity and depth in characterizations which ensured that the audience is not involved in the story. The director touched the actual story only in the second half. Even though the pre-climax and climax portions are impressive, the experience is disappointing as a whole.

Technical Values:

Music is okay and are glamorously shot. Mani Sharma's background score is impressive as usual but loud. Camera work is disappointing all through with heavy colors. Editor had chance to trim few scenes. The Production Values are appropriate.

Thumbs Up:

- Concept

- Climax

Thumbs Down: 

- Camera work

- Dubbing

- Runtime

- Screenplay

- Treatment of Characterizations

Final Verdict: 

Nakshatram has crime, love, addiction and Patriotism like his previous films but is not blended impressively. 

Krishna Vamsi has come up with an honest concept but the screen-play and treatment of the characters is totally disappointing.

Yet another disappointment film from director krishna vamsi

Bottom-line: Chukkalu Chupinchina 'Naksathram'

Review by Manikick

Rating: 1.75/5

Darshakudu movie review

Movie:    Darshakudu

Cast: Ashok, Eesha Rebba, Priyadarshi, Poojitha, Noel, Naveen, Sudharshan Reddy and Others

Story, Screenplay, Dialogues, Direction: Hari Prasad Jakka

Music: Sai Kartheek

Cinematography by Praveen Anumolu

Editor: Navin Nooli

Producer: BNCSP Vijaya Kumar, Thomas Reddy Aduri, and Ravichandra Satti

Banner: BTRN Creations, Playback Pictures, and Sukumar Writings

Censor certificate: U

Runtime: 135 minutes

Release date: August 4th, 2017

Watched at IMAX, hyderabad

Behind the scenes:

Director Sukumar who delivered a super hit with his debut Production venture Kumari 21F. Now he is introducing his brother’s son, Ashok with his second Production venture, Darshakudu. For promotions, Allu arjun graced the pre-release function. Let us see how the movie??

Story-line:

Mahesh (Ashok) is a fun loving guy who dreams always to become a film director. His ambition is to make a new age love story. He somehow gets a chance to direct a film . Producer is not satisfied with romantic track in the story. So director decided to fall in love to know authentic moments.

At the same time, he falls in love with a costume designer called Namratha (Eesha Rebba ).  But then, his real life love story conplicated now. The rest of the story is all about how his love story creates troubles to his film and how he will finish the film in time.

Performances:

Debut hero Ashok struggled to settle in his role. He has to improve a lot in all aspects performance, body language, ease, dialogue delivery and confidence etc. Eesha Rebba looks beautiful and delivers decent performance all through. Scenes between the lead pair are good. Upcoming Comedian Sudharshan Reddy is okay while Priyadarshi of Pellichoopulu fame is good in a very small character. Noel, Poojitha, Naveen and others did their job well.

Analysis:

Director Hari Prasad Jakka had chosen a good concept of making a love story based on a film director and costume designer but did not work enough on the script. Screenplay is bad. The director’s work in the film is totally useless. 

Technical Values:

The music is just okay while the theme of the film is impressive. The camera work is not at all good and the lighting is even disappointing. Editor had a chance to cut the scenes in both half's. Few Dailogues are good. Production Values are okay.

Thumbs Up:

- Concept

- Few moments

Thumbs Down:

- Screenplay

- Second half

- Camera work

- Hero Ashok

Final Verdict: 

'Darshakudu' is all about the journey of one film maker.

While the title is Darshakudu, the story is mostly about the love story between the director and a costume designer, but then the title gives a feel it is all about filmmaking and the struggle of a filmmaker.

The first half of the film is just okay with few scenes here and there. The second half is so disappointing. 

Skip this film.

Bottom line: 

Useless Attempt by weak 'Darshakudu'

Review by ManikickReviews

Rating:   2/5

Goutham Nanda Movie Review

Movie:      Goutham Nanda

Cast: Gopichand, Hansika, Catherine Tresa, Mukesh Rushi, Sachin Khedker, Vennala Kishore, Bhithiri Sathi, Venu, Chanti, Chandra Mohan, Nikithan Theer and Others

Story, Screenplay, Dialogues, Direction: Sampath Nandi

Producer: J Bhagavan and J Pulla Rao

Music: Thaman SS

Cinematographer: Soundar Rajan

Editor: Goutham Raju

Banner: Sri Balaji Cine Media

Release Date: July 28th, 2017

Watched at Galaxy theater, Toli chowchi

Behind the Screens:

Gopichand who made a comeback with his Loukyam movie in 2014 is back to the flops with his next back to back films – Jil and Soukhyam. Two of his films – Oxygen and Aaradugula Bullet are struggling to release due to some problems. So hero keeping all his hopes on Goutham Nanda movie. Let us see how the movie??

Story-line:

Ghattamaneni Goutham (Gopichand) is the only son of a big shot billionaire (Sachin Khedkar). All the days he is enjoying with his friends in foreign countries. But then, one day he gets the question of what he is without his father. To get an answer, he changes his position with Nanda (Gopichand), a poor guy who has a starking resemblance to Goutham. While Goutham learns the value of life in Nanda’s house, Nanda turns greedy in Goutham’s place. What happens next in the story forms the rest.

ధనం మూలం ఇదం జగత్...

Performances:

Gopichand who has the image of a Mass Action Hero is convincing in a Stylish Avatar. He completely stylish in Ghattamaneni Goutham's role. He managed to bring good variations in both the characters. He did a decent job in emotional sequences too. 

Catherine Tresa is resticted to glamor scenes. Hansika is seen in a limited screen space and is okay in normal girl looks. Mukesh Rishi and Nikithan Theer are okay. Sachin Khedkar, Chandramohan, and Seetha are good in the roles.

Analysis:

As a story writer, Sampath Nandi succeeded. But as a director he was disappointed. He chose a good storyline but did not executed up to the mark. Gopichand’s Stylish Makeover deserves applause. He repeated the same mistake as previous cases by concentrating on grandeur and styling with out proper concentration on story execution. The movie has an interesting storyline but the revenge plot is very weak. The twists in the movie are good. 

Technical Values:

 

SS Thaman’s songs are okay but the background score is good. Soundar Rajan’s cinematography is very good. With his camera work movie got rich look. Editing should have been better and editor had chance to cut few scenes in the film. Lavish and rich look to movie due to extraordinary production values. 

Thumbs Up:

-Production Values

-Rich look

-Stroy Line

Thumbs Down:

-Story execution

-Parts of the scenes

Final Verdict:

Goutham Nanda movie is "High Emphasis on Style and grandeur, Low on Substance".

If director Sampath nandi concentrates more on story execution than grandeur look then it would be good film.

Bottom line: Old wine in new bottle.

Review by Manikick

Rating:      2.75/5