Autonagar Surya : Review

Title : AUTONAGAR SURYA
Star Cast : Naga Chaitanya, Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Rakul Preet Singh
Producer : K. Achi Reddy Producer : Dr. Venkat
Director : Deva Katta
Music : Anoop Rubens
Released on: 27-06-2014
Rating : 2.5/5
 

Story

Movie starts in 1973 when Surya's (Naga Chaitanya) parents gets killed by local goon. Autonagar becomes his hometown and he starts working in an Mechanic Shed and where he gets to learn about life and Automobiles. Surya gets into trouble when he commits an offence and due to that felony he gets punished to 5 years time in Jail. During his Jail tenure itself he completes his further studies and he pens a plan to make a automobile that works on battery. After his sentence in jail, he starts working at the same automobile shed in Autonagar area. The things turn around when he gets to know about the local mafia and their illegal business in Autonagar. "Manishi ante elane brathakali anni nirnayinchedi kadhu Vyavastha, Manishe Vyavastha" believing these words Surya goes againt the corrupt politicians, goon and will he succeed in making Autonagar from the goons forms the rest of the storyline.
Autonagar Surya Review - Star Performance

Naga Chaitanya enacted his role with a lots of ease. His image suits well for these kind of roles. But in this he should have taken a bit of care on his dialogue delivary and mannerisms. Samantha Ruth Prabhu is fine in her limited role. But her hairstyle, make up did not suit her. She was also not rightly captured by the cinematographer. Ajay is okay, but his body language didnt suit the role to the core. Sai Kumar is over dramatic as uncle of Naga Chaitanya. Comedy by Brahmanandam, Venu Madhav, Josh Ravi does not appeal. 100% fame Nandu is okay in his role. The rest of the roles are adequate.
 

Techinical Team

Story line of Autonagar Surya is thin, he just made use of Fountain Head (lead character), Yevadu, Student No.1, Samanyudu etc for his screenplay. The backdrop for the story of the film is inspired from a National Daily headline. Movie has its own share of flaws in the logic department, and gaps in the storyline. Like Surya who runs around Mechanic Shed (from childhood times), completes his Automobile engineering in Jail - After Indra says Giri to make Surya suffer in Autonagar for rights, Surya easily reopens the shed and even completes working on Battery car - Unnecessary references thats not from the 1989 timeline - The way Brahmanandam sells the first Gas cars without any instruction (As Surya gets into trouble for not having the documents). The first half of the film is a sort of middling, but not at all in a way that would invoke one's reflex.

Second half gets slower and lengthy with unnecessary songs. Each and every scene in the film denies to move at lead a bit ahead. Direction of Devakatta is okay in parts, he could not get the scenes stitched in a smooth way, Philosophy was rightly placed in the film. The dialogues are major asset of the film, which try to carry the film. What hurts more is Devakatta too fell into filmy film making. In his previous movies he balanced filmy things with the script, however in Autonagar Surya he brings inn forced comedy scenes, songs to make it look commercial.The traditional comedians fails to tickle the funny bones and there was not even one laugh out loud moment in the film. Beyond everything else, what makes you love about the film are Cinematography and the background score of Anup Rubens supporting it. The songs are situation less and more like speed breakers to this slow narrated flick. In the non - song parts, everything was old wine in new bottle with a massy background. Gowtham Raju (Editor) could have easily cut short the film by thirty odd minutes. Fights in the film are very routine, never really elevates the emotions. Visual Effects in the film are second graded. Production Values of the film are rich.
 

Analysis

Autonagar Surya has a decent point to convey, snail paced execution and weaker screenplay have been the cause for the negative payoff of the film. Positives of the film are Cinematography, Background Score and Dialogues. On the flip side its Snail paced narration, Screenplay, Situation less Songs, forced comedy and Editing. Director Devakatta faces the same problem what he faced while Prasthanam, he should consider re-editing the flick to increase the effect of the film. One the whole, Audience dont need to run to the theater to watch the film, but do watch it once its out on home edition for the powerful dialogues.

Conclusion : Autonagar Surya Runs in First Gear

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MAINE PYAR KIYA : REVIEW

Title : REVIEW : MAINE PYAR KIYA
Star Cast : Pradeep Betno, Isha Talwar
Producer : Venkat Rao Sana
Director : Pradeep
Music : Santhosh Narayanan
Released on: 20-06-2014
Rating : 2/5

Story

Naveen Chinthapandu (Pradeep) a software professional, always tries flirt with every girl in town. That's when he comes across his childhood friend Shalini (Isha Talwar). Naveen tries to impress from the first instance, similarly shalini likes him but never really dares to share with him. But things turn around when shalini gets to know about naveen's past. From then she tries to stay away from Naveen. The major problem here is her past connection with Bharath (Satyadev) and Malathi (Madhumitha). Who are Bharath and Malathi? What their connection to Naveen's Love story? Will Shalini accept Naveen's love? forms the rest of the storyline.
 

Performance

Coming to performances, the top four leads are equally good and Madhumita - Satyadev look superb in emotional scenes. Pradeep unexpectedly is having all the fun posing a flirt, with all those added histronics he really gives a decent performance. Satyadev at first looks resisting but then enters the skin of this role. The viewers really enjoy him and travel with him. Hats off to Satyadev for his performance. Isha Talwar looks the most beautiful. She should stick to this look, the costumes in this movie suit her perfectly. Madhumita is too good in her role. Her expressions and looks in the second half are impressive. Posani Krishna Murali and Kathi Mahesh's gay characterizations are horrible. Venu is promising and his comedy timing is good. Uttej cameo is promising.
 

Techinical Team

This is not out of the box thinking or innovation of anykind. In my opinion this is simply wrong choice of plot and looks like deliberately chosen to create controversy and get the extra attention. And the most debatable part is the climax and the solution given to the unexpected problem. It looks like Pradeep Madagula was not able to decide how to end this unconventional plot and he settled with whatever he could he think of. I simply couldn't understand why Isha accepted Naveen's love was not perfectly told. And forced gay comedy even spoiled the narration. Even last half an hour is completely quick edited and nonsensical. The romantic scenes between Isha Talwar - Pradeep were perfectly dealt in the first half and could have been cut short. But the second half has a feel good chemistry between Madhumita & Satyadev, this gave a complete new and blind turn to the movie. There are very few scenes to watch out for ad it all seems to be lengthy. The most lacking part is the story and screenplay of the movie which does not give ample scope to any star in particular. There is LIFE after a LOVE FAILURE is message behind this romantic comedy.

Apart from the fresh cinematography, the other major highlight of the film is the music of Pradeep. The music needs time to grown on the audience. Three songs score over all the others with "Ningilona" being the best. The locations are fresh, songs are shot lavishly, but nothing hits the right note. The editing of the film could have been crispier. He could have easily cut shot Posani gay scenes & Pradeep's HR scene. Production values of Unify Creations are fine.
 

Analysis

The movie has more pace in the second half and runs snail paced in the first half. The moment plot shifts from present to flash back episode, what covers this drag is the unexpected and feel good narration to the flash back episode. The major highlights of the film are Flash back episodes and Music. On the flip side its first half, forced gay comedy and narration. On the whole, Maine Pyaar Kiya is feel good romantic entertainer, but it needs loads of patience to completely enjoy this type of film..

 

Conclusion : Passable entertainer, can be watched

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OOHALU GUSAGUSALADE :REVIEW

Cast: Naga Shourya , Rashi Khanna , Srinivas Avasarala
Directed by : Srini Avasarala
Produced by : Sai Korrapati, Rajan
Banner :Varahi Chalana Chitram
Music by : Kalyani Koduri
Release Date : 2014-06-20

Rating : 3.5/5

Story

Venkateswara Rao (Naga Shourya) an aspiring reporter whose dreams of becoming a network news anchor leaves to Vizag to meet his Mavayya (Rao Ramesh). In the mean time Delhi girl Sri Sai Shirisha Prabhavathi (Rashi Khanna) comes to Vizag, in a short time Venky and Shirisha get close. But things fall apart when Venky proposes & Shirisha rejects the proposal. After sometime, Shirisha gets introduced to A. Uday Bhasker (Srinivas Avasarala) Head of UB TV. That's when Uday asks Venky to help him in impressing her. Things take a U turn when Venky realizes Uday is impressing Shirisha. How Shirisha find her lost love? Will Uday help Venky ? forms rest of the storyline.

Performance

Naga Shourya may not be a versatile actor, but he has good screen presence and a simpatico face. Rashi Khanna (Madras Café fame) has to look beautiful, which she does to perfection. The major highlight of the film is Srinivas Avasarala, he just steals the show from everyone. His Date sequences with Rashi are just hilarious. In short, Srinivas is the main attraction in the film. Rao Ramesh, Hema pair look good, their sequences are decently shot. The performance of the supporting cast is good and each one of them has to be applauded for that.

Techinical Team

Oohalu Gusagusalade has a very typical romantic storyline, which has a slight point inspired from French play Cyranno De Bergerac. Srinivas Avasarala's script lacks any imagination and melodramatic, clinched & even uninteresting in parts. The director has not succeeded in narrating the film in a feel good manner. Though the first half of the film gives the feeling that nothing much of relevance is happening, Srinivas Avasarala and his team come up with an below average show in the second half. Director failed to develop a strong romantic angle between the lead pair; even the climax of the film is fast and never makes us to travel with it. At around 143 minutes the film is a little experiment that will make you laugh in parts.

Cinematography in the film is major asset of the film. Music by Kalyani Koduri was relaxing and suits few situations. The movie was brought up in a very lengthy manner. Editor could have easily trimmed down the runtime by 20 odd minutes. Costumes in the film are good. Except for Srinivas Avasarala scenes nothing works in the first half. The production values of Varaahi Chalana Chitra are good.

Analysis

Oohalu Gusagusalade is one film, which could have been much better if handled with passion and expertise. However it's only the eye-pleasing Cinematography, capturing the pleasing locales of Vizag beautifully in the film which at least gives you something in return for your time and money spent in the theater. Movie could have been crispier and ever better, but in the current form it's a below average flick. So unless you can watch anything in the name of a rom-com movie, simply give this miss and save your energy.

Conclusion: Impressive Romantic Entertainer.

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VIKRAMA SIMHA :REVIEW

Title : VIKRAMA SIMHA

Star Cast : Rajinikanth, Deepika Padukone,

Producer : B Subrahmanyam

Director : Soundarya Rajinikanth

Music : A R Rahman

Released on: 23-05-2014

Rating : 1.5/5

Story

At the centre of this animated motion - capture 3D film is the Rana (Rajinikanth) chief of Kallingapuram army ruled by Raja Mahendra (Jackie Shroff). Rana takes Kottapatanam slaves into his army to make a powerful impact with the start. He wins every small kingdom in his way, and pens to attack Kottapatanam. But Rana has second thoughts to make his come back to his hometown with his army. Ugra Simha (Nasser) hugely impressed with his approach in the enemy combat, asks to lead his army. In the meantime Raja Mahendra plans to attack Kottapatanam and kill Rana. Surprisingly, attacks Ugra Simham and gets arrested. Who is Vikramasimha? Why does Rana attack Ugra Simha? Will Vandana Devi (Deepika Padukone) marry Rana’s in the end forms the rest of the storyline.
 

Performance

It might not initially make sense to cast Rajinikanth in an animated role, but once you see the movie, you can see the brilliance in the casting. Majorly Rajinikanth (dubbing by Mano) voice delivers the performance. Mano can make any line sound impressive, and Rajinikanth character often has to overact in an attempt to impress his fans. It makes sense for Mano to voice , and Rajini delivers in style. Deepika Padukone, Jackie Shroff, Aadi, Nassar, Shobana and Nagesh are less impressive, although they're much more reserved, down-to-earth characters. Dasari Narayana Rao voice over in the start is promising.

If the Vikramasimha suffers, it's because of the supporting characters and cartoon-ish expressions from motion capture images. The rest of the characters other than Rajinikanth’s (Rana, Nasser & Vikramasimha) characters rest of the characters all are painfully underdeveloped and essentially have one gimmick each, But most of the time is dedicated to the three characters mentioned above. There's really no reason for the other characters to even be in the film, and it would have been nice to see their roles expanded.
 

Techinical Team

Any concerns about being India’s first motion capture animation’s ability to render photo realistic human beings faces are left behind; Rajinikanth and other characters are never really expressive. The animation team has even somewhat sidestepped the problem that 3D motion capture films almost always face, which is that the human characters almost always look significantly worse than the rest of the picture. Humans are more difficult to animate, apparently, and also wind up looking like jelly in comparison to the fur or textured surfaces that surround them. The themes aren't exactly groundbreaking from writer and director K S Ravikumar and Soundarya R. Ashwin and the plot feels too repetitive with the Rana encountering one explored terrain after another and responding in predictable ways. Vikramasimha is a thoroughly modern, But its content is just a nostalgic piece.

The first photo realistic character was developed for Young Sherlock Homes (1985). With every film since then, Willow (1988), Backdraft, Jurassic Park, The Lord Of The Ring: Two Towers…Etc motion capture has reached new heights in Hollywood and Here comes India’s first Motion capture movie, Vikramasimha in 2014. Hollywood has taken 25 years to perfect in Photo Realistic film making, our film makers must be appreciated for the intent in film making and coming up with middling result in the first attempt. Soundary R Ashwin must be appreciated for bringing new technology to Indian film Industry and making a Photo Realistic film in limited $ 20.5 Million budget in years.

The Music by Oscar winner A R Rahman is impressive in parts. Especially, at fight sequence between Deepika - Rajinikanth, Kallingapuram soldiers attacking on Vikramasimha ships and at Rudra Thandavam scene. Cinematography by Rajiv Menon is fine. The action sequences in the film are very long and looks inspired from 300. Even Depth perception ratio was not perfectly handled in the action sequences. Dialogues by Sriramakrishna are ordinary, but the way final dialogues are written makes a special impact in the end. Editor coud have easily cut short the film by 10 -15 minutes. Production values of Media One Global Entertainment and Eros International are grand.
 

Analysis

The motion capture periodic features a strong, star-studded cast, but the script and CGI doesn't pop off the screen quite so effectively. Vikramsimha first half is boring and dragged, but the second half picks up the pace and ends with a promising note. There’s a strange sort of disconnect one may experience while watching Vikramasimha. That’s because Vikramasimha isn’t our typical animated kid’s movie because we have been conditioned for a certain kind of animated movies. Though it doesn’t hit the bench mark of Hollywood motion capture films in recent times, it doesn’t sink either. If you look back, Hollywood has taken 25 years time frame to come up with a promising motion capture film, we must be happy with what we have seen on screen in the first attempt itself. On the whole, Vikramasimha must be appreciated for the intent in film making, nothing else.

Conclution : Welcome Change to Indian Motion Picture.

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MANAM : REVIEW

Title : MANAM
Star Cast : Akkineni Nageswara Rao,  Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya, Shriya Saran, Samantha Ruth Prabhu,
Producer : Akkineni Nageswara Rao , Akkineni Nagarjuna
Director : Vikram Kumar
Music : Anoop Rubens
Released on: 23-05-2014
Rating: 3.5/5

Story

Movie starts with a quarrel between Radha Mohan (Naga Chaitanya) and Krishna Veni (Samantha). Few days after marriage, the couple dies in a car accident. They have a little son named Bittu. After few years, Bittu grows up and turns to be a successful businessman Nageswara Rao (Nagarjuna AKkineni). Nageswara Rao meets with Nagarjuna and Priya (Samantha) who resemble his parents, tries to get together with them. Nageswara Rao accidentally meets up with his lady lobe Anjali (Shriya). Tables turn around when Chaitanya finds Nageswara Rao and Anjali resemblances with his parents. Rest of the story is about the finding the truth behind the relationship between them..

Performance

Akkineni family four generation actors Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Nagarjuna, Naga Chaitanya & Akkineni Akhil shared screen space for the first time in a family entertainer. The movie is special to the family as it happens to be the last outing of Akkineni Nageswara Rao. ANR mesmerized everyone with his performance in the film. Nagarjuna and Naga Chaitanya delivered their career best performances in this film. Nagarjuna grows on everyone with his role. In the female leads its Samantha who has more screen time than Shriya Saran. Samantha plays a dual role in the film as a mother and bubbly girl Priya shows perfect variations in the two roles. Shriya Saran looks ravishing in her character. Akhil Akkineni makes a rocking appearance in the climax. The rest of the characters Rishi Khanna, Neetu Chandra, Amala, Lavanya Tripati Cameo's are good. Superstar Amitabh Bachchan surprising cameo is fun.

Techinical Team

The film is a period drama which spans between 1940, 1983 and present scenario with reincarnation angle in it and is based on the concept of endless love. Screenplay of the film has a solid feel; the first half of the film is cool and meets every expectation provided with the teasers. But second half of the film drops its pace post interval and picks up the pace just before the climax. Music Director Anup Rubens provided soothing audio to the film and elevated the tempo of the film with his background score. Cinematography of the film by Vinod is magical, he was successful in differentiating the time frames. Praveen Pudi editing is proficient for the film. Dialogues by Hashavardhan are simple and suited every scene. ART director deserves a special applause. Annapurna Banner production values are rich.

Analysis

Manam, Vikram Kumar's latest film is different from the recent films released in Tollywood. Positives of the film are Lead Performances, Anup Rubens, Cinematography, Akhil Akkineni and Conclusion. On the flip side dragged second half and forced comedy. On the whole, Manam is one of the best films that emerged out of Telugu cinema in a long time. Make sure you put down Manam on your to do list this weekend.

Conclution : Manam Family Entertainer..

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CHANDAMAMA LO AMRUTHAM :REVIEW

Title : CHANDAMAMA LO AMRUTHAM

Star Cast : Srinivas Avasarala, Dhanya Balakrishna,

Producer : Gangaraju Gunnam

Director : Gangaraju Gunnam

Music : Shri

Released on: 17-05-2014

Story

Amrutham (Srinivas Avasarala) and his best friend Anjaneyulu (Harish) own a restaurant and turn nightlong billionaires due to sudden real estate boom. They get separated due to an dopey article [Both should stay away from each other until Egyptians Pyramids are Destroyed] laid by Amrutham's father in law (Chandra Mohan), both egress as business tycoons in restaurant business. In the meanwhile, Sin Laden blasts Pyramids in Egypt and hence, Amrutham and Anji get together and flourish their restaurant business jointly. Chandra Mohan (Rao Ramesh) works at RTC (Rocket Transport Cooperation) pen to trick both the business magnates with the help Appaji and sell of their Chandrayan tickets and absquatulate later. Amrutham and Anji decide to start their branch on Moon by selling their assets. Rest of the story is all about what all troubles they faced on Moon and Did they set up their restaurant business over there.

Performance

If the guff cinema isn't enough to numb your senses, there's ample frivolity in the name of humor and character-sketch that works brilliantly to leave you fuming. Television series of Amrutham has given life to actors like Harshavardhan, Shivajiraja, Gundu Hanamantha Rao, Jhansi etc. But new cast in the film hardly has scenes to perform except for songs. Gundu Hanmantha Rao went the slapstick way with his characterization in the original but movie version of Anji with Harish playing the role is preposterous. Srinivas Avasarala tries too hard to show some promising elements of being a confused guy but sadly he falls for the gaudy writing of the film maker. Sivannarayana, who is struck in the wrap of being the comic villain, essays the similar role for the nth time. Dhanya Balakrishnan, Suchitra and Pavani Reddy are limited to small roles. Vasu Inturi is okay in his role. Rest of the characters Rao Ramesh, Krishna Bhagwan, Chandra Mohan, Ashok and others support the lead cast.

Techinical Team

Honestly, even after thinking deep and hard, I fail to spot even a single positive Technical aspect about the film. Amrutham: Chandamama Lo, yet another promising story-line becomes a martyr at the hands of an aspirational director. The one who wants to film a story that is close to his heart but finds himself obligated to stick to commercial norms and routines. The First half of the film is more like watching extended cut of Amrutham episode in a theatre. Usually in a different concept film, the second half is makes or breaks the film. Here the competition at the interval just trashed the movie. It was so humdrum and dragged that the audience were cursing themselves for being in the theater. Even climax didn't redeem the film. Director Gunnam Gangaraju could have worked a bit hard on the sense of logics, like; Planning to Farm in Moon - Fighting for Land on Moon - Appaji's attempt piss out side the space ship (When the ship was on the move) - the moon's gravity is redefined.

Dialogues were the most clichéd. The situations are given ample time to establish the equation between various characters. But again none of them with a great impact, a huge irritant was a songs playing at random moments. The music was an okay; they were picturized in the most awful fashion. The lyrics, at least the ones I could hear without awful music distracting me - were meaningful. The music and lyrics were two distinct entities here. The biggest problem with Amrutham is that the director is trying to do too many things at a time which simply does not work. Even you would cringe in seats seeing this space comedy. Plus, the long running time of 151 minutes tests your patience too much. Cinematography in the film by Rasool Ellore is neat. The long shots make graphics look a bit blur on screen. Art direction by J K Murthy is middling. The Production Values of "Just Yellow media pvt. Ltd" are fine.

Analysis

Sorry Gunnam Gangaraju, you might have scored solid hits like Little Soldiers, Aithe and Anukokunda Oka Roju, but you got your cards all terribly wrong this time. Even a madcap entertainer needs to have a healthy comedy at constant intervals, which was missing in Amrutham: Chandamama Lo. The film has a half baked concept, which leaves us feeling something is missing all the time. On the whole, Amrutham Chandamama Lo has a decent point, but it fails in its scripting. Though the audience would like to watch it, but might be disappointed after entering into the theatre.

Conclution : Amrutham Kadhu Visham!!

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BACHCHAN (2014) :REVIEW

Title :  BACHCHAN (2014)

Star Cast : Sudeep, Bhavana, Parul Yadav, Tulip Joshi, Jagapati Babu,

Producer : Uday K Mehta

Director : Shashank

Music : V. Harikrishna

Released on: 17-05-2014

Story

Bharat (Kichha Sudeep) murders a police officer (Ashish Vidyarthi) and a doctor (Nasser) and gets arrested while making his escape. Vijay Kumar (Jagapathi babu) plays an investigating offer. Bharat recites why he killed these two. Bharat is a kind hearted businessman, who is the MD of the Bharat Property Solutions in Bangalore. But Bharat is troubled by Police Officer and Doctor who are flakey to the hilt. Its all comes to a ghastly end as Bharat's fiancée immolates herself after being piqued by the police officer that Bharat is cheating on her. Post Interval, the story turns upside down with couple of new versions of what really happed with Bharat in the first half. Eventually it turns out that Bharat is out on an revenge mission and Vijay finds out the truth behind the mystery murders. But is it really truth? Is Anjali (Parul Yadav) the real girl friend of Bharat? What is Ashwini (Bhavana)'s role? Answers to these questions are answered in the film's second half.

Performance

The performances are good. "Abhinaya Chakravarthy" Kichha Sudeep is splendid as an Angry Young and Kindhearted Businessman in the film. He carries his complicated role with utter ease. He manages to rise over the script in most of the junctures. Jagapathi Babu looks middling in his role. A better dubbing could have elevated his character. Parul Yadav is good until she starts taking things seriously. Its tough to keep your eyes away from Tulip Joshi and Bhavana is fine in her role, with great scope for histrionics. Bullet Prakash is funny at times. Nasser and Ashish Vidyarthi provide some interesting performances. Pradeep Rawat and Bammali Ravi Shankar are limited to small roles. "Jai Ho!" fame Daisy Shaw is red-hot in the item number.

Techinical Team

The story of Bachchan is very thin has few inspirations from Khaleja and few tamil films. The first half of the film is never ending, but towards the second half its slightly gets interesting. Elevating fake schizophrenia is fine, but what unfolds in the film with poor translation of dialogues is probably equivalent to a second degree torture. Its painfully drags in the first half, the performances although lovely, outshines revenge drama, you no more care about the first half. The stretched characters of Pradeep Rawat and Ravi Shankar get monotonous towards the end. Post 30 minutes into the second half, you desperately look for end credits to roll. Yes, its that's badly handled by the Telugu makers be it dubbing or dialogue translations. Director Sashank after sentimental films like Moggina Manasu, Krishnan Love Story and Jarasandha returns with a promising revenge drama.

The first half of the film is major drawback when compared to the way he handles the second half. The runtime of the film is nearly 140 minutes most of the scenes in the first half can be easily chopped off. Dialogues in the film are irritating for example. When CCB Jagapathi Babu asks "Even Psychiatrist was associated with you as he approved your his love story". Parul in reply says, "NO. Its Bachchan who made him believe as he knows YOGA". There is no meaning in the sentence as yoga never helps in conning a Psychiatrist post several tests. Music of the film by V Harikrishna is average, Situation less spacing of the songs makes them not even worth mentioning. The background of the film is too loud. The cinematography of the film by Shekar Chandra is major asset of the film. Newton laws are damned with the fights in the film. The VFX in the film are second rate. The production values of the film are hunky-dory.

 Analysis

A bad dubbing can ruin even the greatest content. In Bachchan its bad translation, bad dubbing, and poor quality control that hurt the quality of the film. Even with interesting premise in the second half, one gets easily distracted by the lead characters voice over, which end up with an inane meaning. None of the voices seemed to have fit their characters and it was an overall disappointment. On the whole, not all dubs are bad. But post XYZ (2013), we have never come across a dub as terrible as Bachchan.

Conclution : Dubbing Disappoints

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APRIL FOOL (2014) :REVIEW

Title : APRIL FOOL (2014)

Star Cast : Jagapati Babu, Bhumika Chawla,

Producer : GL Srinivas

Director : Krishnaswamy Shrikanth

Music : Bunty

Released on: 10-05-2014

Story

Prakash (Jagapathi Babu), a sincere lawyer and one of the top reporter Swapna (Bhoomika) go against local goon Anna (Gulshan Grover) for a land grabbing issue. Accidentally even there is a rivalry between Kakki (Ranadhir) and Anna (Gulshan) due to diamonds issue. Taking this an opportunity Anna always irritates Kakki with his power. Being frustrated with his life Kakki blames God for everything happening in his life and sleeps off. When he wakes up the next morning, Kaki soon realizes the tedium of the same day over and over again, he gradually learns to treat people decently. He also falls for Satya (Shrusti). With each defeat means a little more information and gets him a little closer to understand selfishness in him. How will Prakash and Swapna fight against Anna? Will Kakki support the moment and help the Colony people forms the rest of the tale.

Performance

The actors look disinterested, especially Jagapathy Babu who always delivered spirited performances, even in some of his worst films. He overacts in this one and limited to a small role. Bhumika Chawla has a small role and leaves a mark. Ranadhir is wasted, he doesn't fit the bill. Shrusti irritates with her performance. Gulshan Grover tries hard, but carries just one expression throughout the film. Thagubothu Ramesh, Dhanraj, Seenu failed in proving the fun, the rest of the characters ham endlessly.

Techinical Team

There aren't any. After a point you don't even care, we expected a satirical comedy, but April Fool has inspirations from Groundhog Day. In an attempt to try something unconventional director Krishna Swamy Srikanth Iyengar seems to be totally inspired by Groundhog Day (1993). April Fool is devoid of any sense or logic. Like; Gulshan Grover never tries to check the diamonds in the car rather goes against Ranadhir every time - There is no particular point why Shruti falls in love straight away (After a kiss while chasing a goon who stole her 50 Lakhs Rupees) similarly there are many logics missing in the film. Narration of the film is snail paced; one could easily predict the ending before interval. The dialogues are appropriate but pretty generic and this film doesn't bind to the stereotypical norms of passion, which is a drawback. Music Director Bunty failed in providing situational and soothing songs to support the film's narration. Even he failed to elevate the film with his Background Score. Cinematography by Tanikella Rajendraprasad is second rate. Movie is around 155 minutes and Editor should have easily cut short the film by 30-40 Minutes. Even transition of the scenes is not perfectly done. Production Values of Sudha Entertainments are mediocre.

Analysis

Always felt April Fool could either spring a huge surprise or fall flat unfortunately, It's the later. From the start to finish, absolutely nothing works for the film. You fail to understand what the director was thinking?.The first Half of the film provide us with interesting points here and there but fails to capitalize in the second half. April Fool turns out to be a film which possibly carried good potential of being an engaging watch. However with unnecessary scenes taking over the proceedings and becoming repetitive after a while, the end result isn't really enthralling.

If you are not bothered by bad screenplay and acting, love Bhumika Chawla and have money to spend this weekend then go watch April Fool. But if your money is dear to you, stay at home and watch IPL instead.

Conclution : Don't Fool Yourself, April is over!!

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DILLUNNODU : REVIEW

Title: DILLUNNODU

Star Cast : Sai Ram Shankar, Jasmine, Priyadarsini,

Producer : K Venu Gopal

Director : Jay Ravindra

Music : Sekhar Chandra

Released on: 17-05-2014

Story

Sai (Sairam Shankar), a Travels company owner, falls in love in the first instance with Chaitra (Jasmine). But plays with heart and leaves him suddenly. In the same time Sai comes across Simran (Priyadarsini) a bank employee. With a sudden accident on the road, Chaitra returns to Sai's life. On the Krishnastami Day, both of them propose Sai. As he unable to decide with whom should he continue his life with? He plans a tour to Bangkok to make Simran and Chaitra close friends. Taking Advantage from the situation reveals the final decision to them. What happens when both get to know forms the rest of the storyline.

Performance

Sairam Shankar returns back to regular 143 template acting. Not only his acting is extremely wooden with just an idiotic smile forever pasted on his face., he simply cannot express any different emotion. Jasmine credited here as software professional Chaitra plays Sai's first love interest doest get much scope and is there to provide pure eye candy. Jasmine is very pretty in the songs. On the other hand, Priyadarshini doesn't carry the confidence or ease she displayed in the first half. Nellore Giri, Dharmavarapu Subbramanyam and M S Narayana manage few laughs which are actually unintentional and come out due to poor character designs. Chandra Mohan is okay. Pragathi is good as a kindhearted mother. The actor who acted as Priyadarshini's brother has still a long way to go as far as acting is concerned.

Techinical Team

Story line of the film is what we have seeing in from evandi aavida vachindi, Allari Priyudu, Badri .. etc. But director makes an effort to add sparkle to the film new generation formula, but ends up being a damp squib. The film swings from being a love story - triangular love story to being a simple polygamy story in the end. High pitched melodrama, scheming minds wanting to grab the love gets, misunderstood lover, dotting girl friends, and a jaan jigiri mom all these things have now been discarded. Dillunodu is supposed to be a youthful love story where hero flirts two girls, but doesn't want to miss the other, does reveal the feeling till the end. There are many twists and turns propping up here and there. And there are some bizarre incidents which look totally unreal and unconvincing. The only just about okay thing about the film is its Music composed by Shekar Chandra and its foreign locals. Shekar Chandra's strength lies in scoring this kind of music and he excelled in it. Dialogues by Ravindra are commendable. Cinematography in the film by Dasaradhi Sivendra is adequate. Editing by M.R. Varmaa should have been crispier. Fights are normal. Choreography is okay in couple of tracks. Production Values of Sri Sowdamini Creations are middling.

Analysis

For the last eight months the Tollywood film industry has been witnessing a phenomenal increase in the production of the films. Many Films are being churned out which don't have solid foundation of a good story or good technical values. Dillunodu suffers mainly because of the pathetic second half and weak script, both of which have become the hall marks of the so called youth oriented films these days. The film drags on with a convulted narration and its clear by the first half an hour of the film that director Jaya Ravindraa has made a mess of his responsibility. He has prepared a mingle-mangle script containing sequences which have already been seen in many films. Director failed to draw decent performances from the artists. Other than Jasmine, Sairam Shankar and Priyadarshini have not been able to make any impact. On the whole, Dillunodu fails to match the expectations created by Bumper Offer despite its new concept and music.

Conclution : Content was New, Intent Was Missing.

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PYAR MEIN PADIPOYANE : REVIEW

Title : PYAR MEIN PADIPOYANE

Star Cast : Aadhi, Shanvi,

Producer : KK Radha Mohan

Director : Ravi C Kumar

Music : Anoop Rubens

Released on: 10-05-2014

Rating : 2/5

Story

A happy go lucky guy Chandra (Aadi) falls in love in the first instance with Yuktha (Shanvi Srivasthava). Chandra to get close with Yuktha plans to compose an audio. Chandra and gang start up a group called Crazy. That's when they meets up Bobby (Vennala Kishore) a recording company owner, but things fall apart when Chandra realizes the truth behind Bobby's acceptance. In the meanwhile, Yuktha with the help of her father gets the deal from Aditya Music. That's when Chadra comes across Yuktha's childhood issue with Chinna. Who is Chinna? What does out hero do to solve the issue? Will Crazy team complete the audio? Will Chandra propose his love to Yutha forms the premise of the story.

Performance

Aadi scores as Chandra, his body language and dialogue delivery is in sync with the character, but he needs to need work on his styling and dialogue delivery. Shanvi Srivasthava looks beautiful, fresh and innocent and brings across the delicacy of the character she plays on screen well. The chemistry between the lead couple is missing as it was in Lovely film due too poor characterizations scripted by director. Comedy in the film looked forced but the way Sapthagiri character is utilized is fun as Artist Hussain Varma. Rest of the comedians Vennala Kishore, Prudivi and Thagubothu Ramesh failed to tickle your funny bones. Aadi's gang performance is neat. Vishnu Priya is okay in her role. Kasi Vishwanath is wasted in small role.

Techinical Team

Coming to the story of Pyaar Mein Padipoyanu is nothing new and we have seen and appreciated it right from Aashiqui days. Pyaar Mein Padipoyya is a bit overly cooked for our audiences. It is the presentation that Director should have taken care of. The slow romance between the lead and Comedy works in parts in the first half. How ever the film loosens its grip post interval with a staid and prolonged climax. The dialogues are crisply written. The movie is around 148 Minutes moves at a slow pace mainly due to K V Krishna Reddy editing. Editor could have easily cut short the film by 20 odd minutes. Songs by Anup Rubens are good, Pyaar Mein Padipoyya track is effective on screen. The "Roja" hum in the film stays with you till the end. The back ground score of the film is a bit loud for a romantic entertainer. Cinematography by T Surrender Reddy is neat. The foreign locales look good in the songs. Production Values of the film by Sri Sathya Sai Creations is fine.

Analysis

Reputed director Ravi Chavali in his comeback film seems to have lost touch of a commercial cinema. The first part is what makes it bearable, as the pace slackens in the second half due to many predictable twists which makes it long and unbearable. There is not even a single scene that is different or original. A tight screenplay and good story is what is lacking in this Pyaar Mein Padipoyane film. Overall, the music sure was soothing, but the writing and execution fall way short of expectations. Cinematography, Shanvi's performance and music are the only saving graces of this very disappointing film. We certainly expected better, much better. Watch it, if you have nothing to do this weekend.

Conclusion : Fails to create the magic of "LOVELY"

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KOTHA JANTA :REVIEW

Title :  KOTHA JANTA

Star Cast : Allu Sirish, Regina Cassandra,

Producer : Bunny Vasu

Director : Maruti

Music : JB

Released on: 01-05-2014

Rating : 2.75/5

Story

Sirish (Allu Sirish) and Suvarna (Regina) are two selfish people work at Telugu Y channel as Programme Producer and Creative director. Due to Managing director (Rao Ramesh) of Telugu Y Sirish and Suvarnna get to know about each other and start to work on a new programme to increase the TRP of the channel with Kotha Janta. Later things start to get awry as Sirish makes Suvarnna fall into his trap. But realizing his selfish love, both separate with a point and start competing with each other to win the race in the office. Sirish fails to continue the success of Kotha Janta, Seeing his failure Suvarnna succeeds with her new programme Patha Janta. Realizing the loss Rao Ramesh comes to make them work together, things go out of his hand and Suvarnna attempts suicide. Will Sirish understand his selfish problem and will he marry Suvarnna? Watch the film to see how far they succeed.

Performance

Allu Sirish was disgusting in his first film "Gouravam". In this, he gets a decent make over. He has walked through his role casually and done a pleasing job. Regina Cassandra steals the show. She looked gorgeous and acted very well too. She on screen chemistry with Sirish was good. Her eyes are too expressive and her dressing sense gets better and better. Josh Ravi, Elluru Seenu, Madhu had major part to play in this film. They all were promising in their roles. Rohini seen as mother of Sirish in the film, she is competent and did well. Posani Krishna, Babu Nayak Murali and Rao Ramesh are adequate in their limited roles. Madhurima Banerjee looks good in the traditional village attire. Upcoming actress Vishnu Priya looks okay in her role.

Techinical Team

The movie begins on a positive note with plenty of room for fun and romance, alas; it fell right into the typical happy ending type love story category that actually didn't make any sense to majority of the viewers in reality. The script is almost predictable at every point of the movie and hence fails to build the much needed "emotion" as was required to match the title and the Central theme of the Movie. It should have been screened in a funnier manner. First half of the film is OK. But the second half is unimaginative and was poorly handled. Narration of the film is pretty slow. Music by JB is good, Oosi Prema Rakshasi is the best track on the screen. Cinematography by Richard Prasad is good. The way photography is utilized in Oosi Prema Rakshasi deserves a special mention. Editing needs loads of development. Editor could have easily cut short the film by 10 - 15 minutes. Dialogues in the film are mediocre (Prema Guddidi adhi FOOD pettadu, 100 Crores istha anna loggani oka ammayi nee premaku longindi ante entha preminchindo artham chesuko, Laksha rupailu is the kannathalli kuda amma kadhu anni cheppesthava?, Manam money pettakunda chesede business.). Production values of Geeta Arts productions are grand.

Analysis

The first half of the film is a bit entertaining and second half turns boring. The plus points of the film are Regina Cassandra, Music and Cinematography. The negative points are lack of establishment of feel and in adequate screenplay. On the whole Kotha Janta could have been a better movie if director would have taken extra care on screenplay and exciting narration. So much could have been done with this plot, but well for a Tollywood commercial movie with a love story involved has to end on a happy note and so does this one. There is nothing new in the film other than KOTHA (New!) in the title.

Conclusion : Oka Selfish Prema Kadha!!

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CHANDAMAMA KATHALU : REVIEW

Movie : Chandamama Kathalu

Rating : 2/5

Cast: Lakshmi Manchu , Naresh , Aamani , Krishnudu and others

Directed by : Praveen Sattaru

Produced by : Chanakya Bhooneti

Banner : A Working Dream Production

Music by : Mickey J Mayor

Release Date : 2014-04-25

Story

Chandamama Kathalu is an anthology of eight different stories that revolve around Love - Greed - Emotion. The film brings out the stories of dejected lover - a window who is reunited with her boy friend - a model who was betrayed by her husband - a greedy beggar - a street smart villager - a struggling bachelor - a lustful story and a dotting dad, who is worried about his daughter battling chronic illness. The film depicts as on how these sub plots are connected in the name of LOVE.

Performance
The man who played the role of a beggar is the soul of the film. Although he has a very little to do in the film, the entire plot revolves around his character. Lakshmi Manchu's role as a model lacks the substance and lacks a strong point to feel how she got addicted to alcohol and drugs. There is nothing much to talk about her performance when compared with the likes of Anaganaga Oka Dheerudu and Gundello Godari. Kannada actor Kishore is appropriate for the role for a writer. The role lacks neither substance nor emotion. Krishnudu who was seen as a software engineer lacks the tinge and failed to play to his potential. Naresh failed to impress with his eccentric slang and to be precise he didn't fit into the character. Chaitanya Krishna failed to live in his character. New comer Naga Shourya is okay in his role. Richa Panai provided a decent performance as a Muslim girl Haseena. Amita Rao is good in her looks but failed to elevate her character with her performance. Shamili is fine in her limited character. Aamani made a comeback after a hiatus couldn't able to entertain the audience with her performance. Rest of the star cast played their part well.

Techinical Team
It seems the director was heavily inspired by several Bollywood films and the way he etched the roles of Lakshmi Manchu, Naresh has some striking similarities from the films Life In A Metro, Pushpak, Rockstar, Yeh Jawani Yeh Deewani and Fashion. Similar to beggar character in the film has its essence from Pushpak. Similarly as a struggling model Manchu Lakshmi character has its spirit from Fashion. There could have been better ending to Chaitanya Krishna's episode.

As with most anthology films, it eventually tries to infuse a heavenlier meaning - though not by seaming its stories together under one corporate theme - but rather taking the chintzier option of complecting the stories with resorting characters. Without a savvy on the basics, however that is the individual stories themselves it feels whimsical and forced, a desperate effort to give the collection a more big significance.

Music by Mickey J Meyer is okay, but the Background Score is big letdown. Cinematography by Suresh Ragutu is neat. Dialogues by Praveen Sattaru are routine except for few. Editing by Dharmendra Kakarla should have been crispier. The production values of the film are fine.

 Analysis
The First half of the film goes at snail pace and director tries to establish every character. But coming to second half director pepped up the emotion quotient and failed in elevating the essence of the film. Praveen Sattaru should have failed etch the characters and looks he was in hurry to complete the film. The anthology film in its successes, is so often a lucky art after all, how much control can any one director have over the project as a whole? This fact is painfully reminded to us in Chandamama Kathalu, a visually glaring but thematically sparse tableau vivant.

Note: The review was actually supposed to cover each of the 8 different stories, but why make it abysmally long and boring for readers when not more than one or two deserved a mention.

Verdict: These stories are uninteresting!

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PRATHINIDHI : REVIEW

Movie : Prathinidhi

Rating: 2.5/5

Cast: Nara Rohit , Sri Vishnu , Kota Sreenivasa Rao , Shubra Aiyyappa

Directed by : Prashanth Mandava

Produced by : J Samba Siva Rao

Banner :Sudha cinemas

Music by : Sai Karthik

Release Date : 2014-04-25

Story:

"Porade vadu Yodudu ayithe Yuddam antaru, adhe Pourudu ayithe Prathinidhi." - this message that rolls out in the opening credits forms the core philosophy in Prashanth Mandava's narrative that sketches the lives of five individuals with the backdrop of Old Age home in Hyderabad.

In the opening scene we can see that a common man kidnaps Sambashiva Rao (Kota Srinivasa Rao) in a private old age home event in Hyderabad. News goes viral and everyone from Local to Central cabinet starts taking the issue personally. Home Minister (Jayaprakash) appoints commissioner Anjana (Posani Krishna Murali) to handle this sensitive issue. Srikar (Vishnuvardan) gets captured by the cops and starts narrating his relationship with Sunaina (Shubra) and Manchi Srinu (Nara Rohit). But Srikar confuses everyone with the oxing story about his new love and friendship. In the meantime, Common Man demands to demolish the running currency and replace them with new ones. After some time he comes with another demand and creates ripples in the youth. Who is Common Man? Whats his problem with the government and Who is Manchi Srinu.

Performance

Casting of the film is fine with each of the actor giving their hearts out to refine their characters. Nara Rohit is good in his role, but looked little fat in this film. His voice is improved a lot and he dominated in all departments. He should work a bit on his mannerisms. Shubra Aiyappa is not a heroine material and she is limited in her role. Kota Srinivasa Rao is apt for the role. He provided some punch lines in the second half. Home Minister Jaya Prakash provided a lil fun with his dialect in the first half. Prema Ishq Kaadal fame Vishnuvardhan is like a second hero in the film and done well despite of a dumb characterization. Posani Krishna Murali has wonderful quality of getting his scenes work despite of his directors ability to extract the comedy angle. Ranganath is okay. Rest of the characters supported the lead cast in a decent way.

Techinical Team

The story has similarities to Tagore in the first half but the story has different complexion in the second half. Prashanth Mandava dealt the first half with concept and dragging love episodes. In the second half Prashanth Mandava maintained a decent grip over concept and threaded through scenes that are unnecessarily inserted to showcase the black money and fake currency issues. Direction of the film is average. You will find this film interesting not only for its decent concepts, but also for the dialogues. Dialogues by Anand Ravi deserve a special appreciation for his quotes and lines on the society. "Swardaparululanu paripalinchali ante valakanna parama swardaparude kavali" is the best of the few lines. Music by Sai Karthik is middling. Background music is apt and lifted few scenes with his music. Editing in the film is sharp though the love scenes sounded a little lagging. Production values of the film are poor. A poor quality of filming is visible in every scene.

Analysis

In a political season after disastrous Pratighatna, Prabhanjanam, Tollywood is back to finer political movie with Pratinidhi. A movie talks about issues with façade of sense, Dialogue writer Anand Ravi and his actor Nara Rohit complement each other with some decent performances in their departments, creating a less common experience of a movie that really lives up to the hype surrounding. On the whole, Prathinidhi is a different from a debutant director which has a sense of glister, all over it. With a proper promotion, the movie is sure to have plenty buyers who love movies of this magnitude of impressions.

Verdict : Nice conceptual film, but failed in execution.

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GALATA :REVIEW

Title  : GALATA

Star Cast : Sri, Hari Priya, Sai Kumar,

Producer : Rajendra Prasad Varma

Director : Krishna

Music : Sunil Kashyap

Released on: 25-04-2014

Rating: 1/5

Story

Chitti (Sree) a happy go lucky guy stays with his grand mother (Annapurnamma) in Mumbai, who always pressure Chiiti to get married and send him to Subani (Ali) in Hyderabad. That's where Chitti falls in love with Andaal (Hari Priya) in the first instance. In the mean while, Jayachandra (Benerji) appointed as head for solving Siri Pharma Scam in Hyderabad. Seeing his over obedience Peddi Reddy (Sai Kumar) kidnaps Jayachandra's daughter. Andaal niece of Jayachandra with the help of Chitti goes against Peddi Reddy. Will Peddi Reddy succeed in his plans forms the rest of the storyline.

Performance

Eerojjullo fame Sri is okay in his casual role. His histrionics are just below average. He fails on the nativity front as well. The characterization of his role is very frustrating. Hari Priya looks good, but she lost her charm. Naga Babu is okay. Annapurnamma did a short and decent role. This time even she received some double meaning lines to say. Ali is middling in his role, failed to entertain crowds. Sai Kumar played a negative character in the film and he lacked proper timing due to poor lines. Rests of the characters are just there to make their presence felt.

Techinical Team

Director Krishna's has been made as per the age-old recipe that was in vogue some thirty years back, used for making headless masala entertainers. Here are the factors. A hero, hailing from the rich family from an obscure city and easily God's most perfect creation considering his talent, intelligence, generosity and humor. The next is a beautiful heroine, who falls madly in love with him at a crucial juncture. Then comes the villain, the epitome of all vices, who will be taught a lesson by the hero and heroine in the climax. Not to forget the sidekicks, who all will be dumb and poor comedians, item songs & dance, confusions, confessions, fights and in the final with all the good characters where the hero and heroine will succeed in their plans. The direction of the film is bad. First half of the film is bad, so is the second half. Screenplay never helps the film in any way.

Cinematography by Feroz Khan is b graded. Music by Sunil Kashyap provided some relief with his tunes. But director made sure that he spoil the songs with his situation less timings. Editing by Nicholas is sharp, the major asset of the film is short runtime. Production values of Creative Pixel banner are very mediocre.

Analysis

First half of Galata drags to the core, even second half goes awry. The major problem with the film is horrible script and hazardous narration. Even promising stars failed to provide some relief with their performances. On the way, the hapless viewers have no choice but to watch all this buffoonery for not less than two hours for the one big error that they have done; buying the ticket for the movie. And that's the case with this cockeyed drama called Galata.

Conclusion : Nothing NEW!  

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