Category: Telugu Webseries Reviews

Posted on

Gurthukostunnayi: A perfect comfort watch for fans of nostalgia

Winod Gali follows the blueprint of ETV Wins success formula to the t. Having said that there is enough to hold the viewers particularly the friendship core. It also helps that Viraj Ashwin is successful in portraying the confusion and vulnerabilities, both the writing of Rajeskher Reddy Baddam and Viraj make the viewers empathize with the protagonist’s memory loss. The climatic speech in particular deserves a special mention, yes its filmy but the effective staging makes it work.

Starcast: Viraj Ashwin, Viva Raghav, Godavari Gopi, Pavan Siddu, Yashashree Rao, Priyadarshini Ram and others

Genre: Feel good

Story and Direction: Winod Gali

Writer: Rajeskher Reddy Baddam

Music and background score: Ajay Arasada

Cinematographer: Rehen Shaik

Producer: Sarath Chandra Nayadu

No of episodes: 7

Streaming site: ETV Win

The huge success of 90’s Middle Class biopic and the blockbuster Little Hearts has turned ETV Win into a solid production house. The feel-good storytelling coupled with zero violence has won numerous hearts. Yes, this also comes with a minus as the production house hasn’t experimented much with other genres but that’s a separate topic. Gurthukostunnayi more or less sticks to the success formula and for a large part its entertaining with some heartfelt moments.

Gurthukostunnayi in brief focuses on Viraj Ashwin’s Santhosh. Santhosh has managed to win the approval of his future father-in-law Raghunath (Priyadarshini Ram). Raghunath was once upon a time principal to Santhosh and his batch of friends. Yashashree Rao is Santhosh’s fiancé Vaishali, things appear to be smooth, but a roadblock comes in the form of an unfortunate accident. Santhosh goes through a memory loss with just some time to go for the wedding. How Santhosh’s friends stand with him doing their best to get his memory back and how our protagonist overcomes the obstacles is the basic premise of Gurthukostunnayi.

There is nothing plot heavy about Gurthukostunnayi just like 90’s Middle Class biopic and Little Hearts. It’s more about the treatment and taking viewers back on a nostalgia ride. On both these accounts the director and writer have succeeded.

The portions of the three friends reconstructing Santhosh’s childhood deserves a special mention. A lot of scenes feel authentic even if you as a viewer haven’t experienced it personally. A major chunk of the situational humor comes from the desperation of the friends as well as Santhosh’s father in making sure that Santhosh and Vaishali have a happy ending.

Adding to the precarious situation is Priyadarshini Ram’s Raghunath. Raghunath personally has a low opinion about Santhosh having watched from his teenage days. He still agrees as the daughter is deeply in love, deep inside though he is waiting for Santhosh to mess up. This leads to some amusing situations raising ample chuckles.

Mention must also be made of how Raghunath has been written. On the surface he may come across as a stereotypical obstacle to Santhosh and Vaishali’s happy ending. But he has his valid reasons for not trusting Santhosh fully, there is a crucial moment when Raghunath leds his guard down expressing his concern. Priyadarshini Ram is very good in portraying the hard exterior as well as the vulnerability of a bride’s father.

The love story between Santhosh and Vaishali though doesn’t get the same attention as the friendship portions. Its severely undercooked and as a result it’s hard to completely root for Vaishali’s anxiousness. Having said that Yashashree Rao does a good job within her limited screen time. She particularly stands out in the scene of Santhosh’s memory loss being revealed. The determination of Vaishali has been brought out well by Yashashree Rao.

Among the three friends Viva Raghav impress the most in the comedy department as well a solid emotional scene. There is an important portion where the character lashes out on Santhosh. It’s a heated argument and Viva Raghav does an excellent job.

Rohini Hattangadi as Santhosh’s grandmother also makes her presence amply felt. Her scenes in the fifth and the seventh episode stand out. Her conversation with Viraj in a crucial moment has some nice philosophical undertones.

Music composed by Ajay Arasada goes perfectly with the show’s tonality. The song Ee Vayase is soulful. The background score is of a good order too particularly the climactic portion of Santhosh’s long monologue. This monologue comes with a hidden secret too. The timing of it and how it has been narrated packs an emotional punch.

The cinematography of Rehen Sheik is of a good order too particularly the visual pallet of the flashback portions. Overall Gurthukostunnayi makes for an entertaining watch particularly if you are in the mood for reminiscing about your friends and grandparents.

Posted on

Super Subbu: An engaging rural dramedy

Creator and director Mallik Ram does a fine job in exploring the importance of sex education with a mix of humor and sensitivity. The characterization of Sundeep Kishan’s Subbu from a insecure young man to finding courage is a major strength of the show. The series also throws light on so called cultural beliefs dictating gender roles. Mithila Palkar as an aspiring actress is also wonderful giving solid support to Sundeep, she particularly shines in an audition sequence.

Starcast: Sundeep Kishan, Murali Sharma, Mithila Palkar, Getup Srinu, Jeevan Kumar, Sampoornesh Babu etc

Genre: Dramedy

Creator and director: Mallik Ram

Writers: Ramesh Eligeti and Shivani Dhobal

Producers: Rajiv Chilaka and Bharath Laxmipati

Production house: Chilika Productions

Cinematography: A J Aaron

Music: Anudeep Dev

No of episodes: 7

Streaming site: Netflix

Humor as a genre is a very potent tool for exploring certain so-called taboo topics. Super Subbu streaming on Netflix is a solid example of this. The series blends social message with chuckle worthy moments. This is a tricky balance to achieve, but Maliik Ram along with the writers do a fine job for most of the duration. Sure, there are certain subplots which needed better writing, the romantic thread between Sundeep Kishan and the fiancé played by a charming Manasa Choudhary is severely undercooked. Having said that Super Subbu is very much worth binging for the performances and its social undertones.

The story of SS follows the journey of Subramanyam Chilukuri akka Subbu (A solid Sundeep Kishan). He is posted to a remote Telangana village called Makhipur. Subbu ha a precarious task of educating villagers on matters related to sex. Running parallel to this is Subbu’s troubled equation with Murali Sharma’s Kukkuteswar Rao. Kukkuteswar Rao is an authoritarian father cum teacher. He has a very dismissive towards sex education. In his own words its “pure unadulterated nonsense”. Subbu has a hard time in keeping the nature of his job a secret. How Subbu eventually finds acceptance among the villagers as well as his coming of age forms the core of Super Subbu.

The texture of Super Subbu bears a striking resemblance to both Vicky Donar as well as the Panchayat web series. Much like the latter here too the protagonist comes under the category of a reluctant hero. A young man forced to do something which he doesn’t like but eventually finds a sense of belonginess. The humor too has shades of Vicky Donar, still SS is very much its own beast, and this majorly comes from the village of Makhipur.

Mithila Palkar’s Swathi makes a key difference. Her dynamics with Sundeep Kishan and their blossoming love story gives the show some of its best moments. Mithila aces the Telangana dialect coming up with a solid act. Two scenes deserve a specific mention. One is an audition portion where she is enacting a dramatic moment, the other one is Swathi questioning her father’s patriarchal attitude in a poignant emotional sequence. In both these sequences Mithila is first rate. She also shares a nice chemistry with Sundeep.

However, the shows’ beating heart is the characterization of Subbu and the social issues woven around it. Maliik Ram and the writers have done a fantastic job in tackling themes not often seen in mainstream cinema. Through the journey of Subbu the makers have dwelt into protected sex, family planning, menstrual health and a woman’s wellbeing, all these have been seamlessly integrated making the series thoroughly engaging.

A pop culture reference to Pawan Kalyan’s Vaakel Sab with a no means no has also been excellently used. It becomes a tool of mini revolt for the village women when they don’t want to engage in sex with their husbands. An underlining theme of consent being important has come out well

The characterization of Subbu as already said is a major plus, Subbu is someone who starts off as an indifferent educator. He just wants to make an exit out of Makhipur as soon as possible. But as Subbu witnesses the challenges faced by these women especially in the matters of intimacy and childbirth he genuinely starts to care. Sundeep is first rate in capturing this transformation. The actor also does a fine job in capturing the insecurities of a son living under the shadows of an overbearing father.

Murali Sharma as the terrifying father figure brings in both authority and humor in equal measures. He particularly shines in the scenes of showcasing Kukkuteswar Rao’s discomfort with the topic of sex. Among the rest Getup Srinu as Subbu’s subordinate and ally makes a significant impact with his comic timing. Jeevan Kumar in the role of a principal antagonist brings in an intimidating presence.

AJ Aaron captures both the earthiness and the vibrancy of Makhipur in a solid manner. Anudeep Dev’s music on the other hand compliments the journey of Subbu well.

Final word: Super Subbu is indeed a job very well done. For fans of rural dramedies this show is very much worth binging on.

Posted on

Save The Tigers Season 3: A fun cosmic twist with some relationship lessons

Unlike the last two seasons this installment scores less on humor. Having said that the use of parallel world and the realizations undergone by the three protagonists makes the third season a compelling watch. The trio of Priyadarshi, Abhinav Gomatam and Chaitanya Krishna successfully take off from the previous seasons. They slip into their respective parts with practiced ease while also portraying the new variations in a wonderful manner

Starcast: Priyadarshi, Abhinav Gomaram, Chaitanya Krishna, Jordar Sujatha, Pavani Gangireddy, Deviyani Sharma, Jabardasth Rohini, Gundu Sudharshan, Vennela Kishore and others

Genre: Comedy/drama

Director: Sriram Eragam

Writers: Pradeep Adviatham, Vijay Namoju and D.S Gautam

Creators: Mahi V Raghav and Pradeep Adviatham

Music: Ajay Arsada

Cinematography: S.V Vishweshwar

Producers: Shiva Meka and Sahiti Chintalapadi

Production Company: Three Autum Leaves

No of episodes: 7

Streaming site: Disney+Hotstar

Save The Tigers holds an important place among the numerous streaming shows. A major reason for that is its exploration of marital life from different angles. This time too creator Mahi V Raghav gives a fresh spin to a familiar territory. The web series takes the famous English quote “Grass is Greener on the Other Side” and makes it an underlying theme in the realization journey of the three frustrated husbands. In the previous two seasons they were constantly questioning their married lives, but the twist of a parallel world where they temporarily take the place of their doppelgangers brings a significant change in them. These portions give Season 3 its best moments

Season 3 begins with a kidnap scenario, the details of which are better explored while watching. Then we move to a flashback setting up the frustration of Ghanta Ravi, Rahul and Vikram. Ghanta Ravi (Priyadarshi) has moved to a gated community and is struggling to cope with the new atmosphere, Rahul (Abhinav Gomatam) is stuck in a job which he hates. Finally, Vikram (Chaitanya Krishna) is having a difficult time due to the divorce scenario. One particular night the three in a state of alcohol question the god above. Vennela Kishore plays Lord Indra; Lord Indra decides to give them a fresh start with the help of Gundu Sudharshan’s Chitragupta. What follows is chaos mixed with a life changing swap.

As already mentioned STT 3 is less funny in comparison to the previous seasons. This takes a while to adjust, also the reestablishment of familiar domestic conflicts and character dynamics needed to be crisper. There are stretches too where the story seems to be going in circles.

However, the show finds its rhythm once the fantasy concept sets in fully. The new world in which our protagonists find themselves in give a fresh angle rather than simply recycling old arguments. The shows best moments are those when the three men introspect about their constant complaining and realize the invisible effort of their wives in holding their respective marriages together.

The fantasy of Grass being Greener on the other side isn’t used for just surface level. It acts an important catalyst for our protagonists to change. This has come out solidly in the season’s latter half.

The underlying themes of gratitude, companionship and the need for empathy in a successful marriage has come out in a subtle but very effective manner. Along with the theme of marriage the web series also throws light on parenting and respecting female perspective. These themes again have been seamlessly integrated into the narrative rather than just a sudden add on.

The new characters give their own charm especially Gundu Sudharshan and Vennela Kishore. Gundu Sudharshan lends in the right amount of mischievousness and his interactions with Vennela Kishore raise ample chuckles, the conversations between the two give also give an important insight into the marriage system. Vennela Kishore too does a fine job as Lord Indira. His punchlines in particular are a riot. Jhansi as the judge also has her moments especially her dialogues about the process of divorce.

However, the major spine of STT 3 continues to be Priyadarshi, Abhinav Gomatam and Chaitanya Krishna. Whether it’s the role frustrated husbands going through realization or the doppelgangers they don’t miss a single beat. The chemistry is once again spot on elevating the bumpy patches. The women also leave a significant mark whether it’s the wives or Jabardasth Rohini as Rahul’s maid. The interactions of Abhinav Gomatam and Rohini have a different dynamic as Rohini’s character is part of the parallel world too. Rohini gets a solid mass moment too where she saves our hero’s, and this adds a nice touch.

The score of Ajay Arasda complements the comic and emotional moments well. The cinematography of S.V Visheshwar is suitably glossy in the portions of Lord Indra.

Final word: STT 3 is an interesting mix of fantasy with some important lessons on what it takes to sustain marriage. Definitely worth watching for the message and the actors.

Posted on

Arabia Kadali: Satyadev and Anandhi bolster this rehash of Thandel

The Pakistani characters in Arabia Kadali have more depth in comparison to Thandel, they are written with more nuance. However, a sense of repetitiveness specifically for those who have seen Thandel plays a major spoilsport. The series is worth watching for how it handles the socio-political aspects. Fortunately, Satyadev’s Badri never becomes a larger-than-life hero, he wins over the enemies with humanness instead of fists

Starcast: Satyadev, Anandhi, Poonam Bajwa and others

Genre: Drama

Director: V. V Surya Kumar

Screenplay: Krish Jagarlamudi and Chintakindi Srinivasa Rao

Producers: Y Rajeev Reddy and J Sai Babu

Production Company: First Frame Entertainments

Music: Nagavelli Vidyasagar

Cinematography: Sameer Reddy

No of episodes: 8

Streaming site: Amazon Prime

The story of Arabia Kadali focuses on a group of fishermen from Srikakulam. They unknowingly wander into Pakistani waters in the year 2018. Satyadev is Nurgala Badri, among his people Badri is the most educated. He dreams of a better life with Ganga (Anandhi). Anandhi lives in a nearby village of Matsyawada. There is a major animosity between the villages of Badri and Ganga. Things take a massive turn when the fishermen are imprisoned in a foreign land. The rest of the story focuses on how they return home after a long ordeal and in process the hostility giving way to mutual cooperation and respect.

A strong aspect of Arabia Kadali is the world building done by director VV Surya Kumar along with Krish Jagarlamudi. The interpersonal dynamics between the two villages with the financial struggles has been shown in an engaging manner. It takes a while for the central conflict to kick in but because of the engaging world building the viewers care for the fishermen’s plight.

The gradual process of the hostility coming down has also been shown in a layered manner. There is no overnight transformation, instead it’s a step-by-step process. The web series is also refreshing in how it doesn’t paint Pakistan’s as complete caricatures. At one point you have a judge defending Indian Fishermen in front of Pakistani officials. Amit Tiwari as warden Saleem starts off as hugely evil but he too gets a credible redemption arc.

Poonam Bajwa as Dr Fathima also has a strong voice not afraid to express her opinions. She plays her part with the right balance of warmth and authority. The web series doesn’t confine itself just to the plight of Indian prisoners it also mentions the Pakistani ones languishing in Indian jails. The need for humanity across borders comes out in a strong manner.

Mention must also be made of how Anandhi’s Ganga shapes over the web series. Much like Sai Pallavi in Thandel she is also a woman of steel not letting the cynicism get to her. Anandhi does a fine job in capturing the inner strength.

The cinematography of Sameer Reddy is also good. He captures the numerous landscapes in an effective manner. There is an earthiness to the atmospherics. As Badri Satyadev does a good job in capturing the resilient nature of the man. He makes you believe in Badri’s almost saint like nature with his earnest acting, a particular sequence worthy of mention is when he talks about not writing any letter to Ganga. The reason doesn’t make complete sense still the emotional vulnerability makes the viewers feel for the man.

Talking about the flaws the VFX department leaves something to be desired. A key sequence involving a heavy storm comes across as rather cartoonish. The beats of Thandel also weigh down Arabia Kadali. A sense of boredom creeps in certain portions due to this. The track involving Harsh Rohan as the spoilt brother hasn’t been well integrated either, it comes across as jarring to say the least.

The love story while neatly done could have done with more intensity. The web series would have benefitted immensely with more scenes featuring Satyadev and Anandhi. As a result, the required emotional pang for two lovers is missing.

Final word: Arabia Kadali is a more grounded version of Thandel. Watch it for the performances and the message of humanity.

Posted on

Mayasabha (Rise of the Titans): A gripping socio-political drama

Aadi Pinishetty and Chaitanya Rao in roles inspired from Chandrababu Naidu and late YS Rajasekhara Reddy

Prasthanam director Deva Katta does a good job in engrossing the viewers, he successfully recreates the socio-political fabric with authenticity. The web series doesn’t shy away from wearing its politics on sleeves. The dialogues carry a lot of punch specifically those related to caste disparities

Starcast: Aadi Pinishetty, Chaitanya Rao, Divya Dutt, Sai Kumar, Srikanth Iyengar and others

Genre: Political drama

Creator: Deva Katta

Screenplay and direction: Deva Katta and Kiran Jay Kumar

Producers: Vijay Krishna Lingamaneni and Sree Harsha

Production Companies: Hitmen&Proodos, Productions LLP

Cinematography: Suresh Ragutu and Gnana Shekar V. S

Music: Shaktikanth Karthick

No of episodes: 9

Streaming site: SonyLIV

Pulling off a political drama and that too on real life personalities isn’t an easy task given how easily people can get offended. However, Deva Katta does an excellent job in not just capturing the political atmosphere but he along with Kiran Jay Kumar also pack in some strong social commentary. The web series doesn’t shy away from dwelling into thorny topics like caste, the longer format of a web show also helps Mayasabha given the journey of the primary characters. Mayasabha begins with the usual disclaimer: any resemblance to real people is purely coincidental, however it doesn’t take long for the viewers to understand from whom the primary and also the secondary characters have been inspired.

In simple terms the plot of Mayasabha focuses on Karakala Krishnam Naidu (Aadi Pinisetty) and Dr MS Rami Reddy (Chaitanya Rao). How the paths of these two intertwine from former friends to political rivals forms the basic premise of Mayasabha.

A strong aspect of Mayasabha is undoubtedly the dynamics between the two principal characters. The journey of the two leads are intermingled with both of them starting off as idealists. They want to transcend the social divisions and create a new kind of society however its easier said than done. The inequalities in social systems coupled with faction violence prove to be a major deterrent.

Their differing responses to societal pressures have been written and enacted with nuance. Mention must also be made of how Deva Katta and Kiran Jay Kumar have depicted the ideological disagreements between the two. It never borders on being venomous offering a fresh take on political rivalaries.

The two directors also deserve huge credit for bringing the voice of marginalized. People often caught in a major crossfire to power hungry politicians. Ravindra Vijay as the man wanting to shield his family from violence does an excellent job in representing this.

The emergency period through the characters of Divya Dutta and others also comes out in an impactful manner. Divya Dutta has a commanding presence perfectly embodying the attitude of the role. There is an important line by an official regarding the emergency, it goes like this. “You will give birth to a line of dictators who will use your methods, impose emergency and not even call it one”. This sentence offers a scathing critique of how the present dictators have taken inspiration from this.

Sai Kumar has a late entry playing a role moddled on the legendary NT Rama Rao. The veteran actor as expected shines with his voice modulation and strong presence. Srikant Iyengar too as the power hungry and insecure politician also does a fine job delivering an entertaining performance.

Ultimately Mayasabha belongs to its two leads. Aadi Pinishetty and Chaitanya Rao get into the skin of their respective roles passing with flying colors. The talented Aadi Pinishetty finally gets a part to showcase his acting range, and he doesn’t disappoint. He does a first-rate job in portraying the different facets whether it’s the stammering part or the later stages he doesn’t miss a beat. Chaitanya Rao also provides good support in convincingly portraying the ideological shifts.

The cinematography of Suresh Ragutu and Gnana Shekhar V. S is extremely commendable. They successfully bring alive the period of 1970’s and 1990’s transporting the viewers back to those times. The musical score of Shaktikanth Karthick is also of a good order, the tunes uplift the scenes without proving to be a distraction.

Coming to the flaws the romantic portions and the college days needed better writing and also a tighter edit.

Final word: Keeping aside the minor flaws Mayasabha is a must watch for political buffs.

Posted on

Devika &Danny: A friendly ghost with a strong message of female empowerment

Ritu Varma and Surya Vashistta

B Kishore’s Devika &Danny is an interesting mixture of supernatural elements and a young woman breaking out of her self imposed shackles. What works for the web series is the family friendly tone and simple but effective storytelling. Ritu Varma in the role of Devika gives an assured performance mixing vulnerability with inner strength

Starcast: Ritu Varma, Surya Vashistta, Subbaraju, Goparaju Ramana and others

Genre: Fantasy

Director: B Kishore

Writer: Deepak Raj

Cinematography: Venkat C Dilip

Production house: Joy Films

Producer: Changati Sudhakar

No of episodes: 7

Streaming site: Disney+ Hotstar

In the first few minutes of Devika &Danny streaming on Disney+ Hotstar Ritu Varma’s Devika Nandan talks about living her life within a 25 kilo radius. She is a woman who despite certain reservations on her father’s choice of a potential groom decides to go ahead. Her belief is that a few adjustments will make the marriage work, also Devika is someone who doesn’t want to cross the line chosen by her father. In more ways than one Devika is an anthesis to the character played in Pelli Choopulu featuring the same Ritu Varma. Devika lacks the agency Chitra had at least in the initial portions. This establishment of character trait sets the tone for the subsequent transformation. The transformation of Devika Nandan into a more determined woman isn’t unpredictable but what makes it work is the subtle nuances.

A major strength of Devika &Danny is the mix of the supernatural elements with a coming of age story. The track of Surya Vashistta who charms Devika gives a different dimension to the web series. The revelation of who Danny actually is though predictable acts as a major catalyst for Devika to rethink and step out of the conventions. The way Devika becomes a more confident person taking on different challenges is a delight to watch. Surya Vashistta as Danny is both charming and intense as the scene requires. Additionally he shares a charming chemistry with Ritu Varma making the viewers wish they had met in different circumstances.

Mention must also be made of how the web series talks about generational patriarchy through the character of Gopuraju Ramana playing Subbaraju’s father. Subbaraju as a potential groom and a complete jerk with a regressive mindset also makes his presence amply felt. He raises many chuckles with his serious expressions and a certain exasperation. Mention must also be made of senior actress Kovai Sarala as an elderly woman running an orphanage. She appears in the crucial flashback lending an emotional depth.

Subbaraju and other cast members

A major problem with Devika &Danny is an over reliance on the use of Ritu Varma’s voice over. A cut down on that would have benefited the series immensely. Also some of the writing choices in the later half feel very convenient reducing the intrigue factor. The portions featuring Harsh Chemudu also doesn’t much add to the proceedings. His comic track comes across as a major speed breaker.

Venkat C Dilip’s cinematography is of a good order specifically in the village portions. Jay Krish’s background score is also fine and the CGi is well intergrated into the narrative.

Final word: Devika & Danny is a pleasing coming of age story. The series makes for a decent weekend watch.

Posted on

Vikkatakavi – The Chronicles of Amaragiri web series review: An engrossing, first of its kind Telangana detective show

In spite of some rough edges, director Pradeep immerses the viewers into the world of Amaragiri. The mixture of Telangana folk beliefs with the subplot of bio war enhances the narrative. Promising young talent Naresh Agastya delivers another solid act
Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri (Telugu), 28-11-2024, Drama, 6 episodes, 16+, OTT
  • Main Cast: Naresh Agastya, Megha Akash, Shiju Menon, Tarak Ponnappa, Raghu Kunche, Mukthar Khan, and Amit Tiwari
  • Director: Pradeep Maddali
  • Producer: Rajani Talluri
  • Music Director: Ajay Arasada
  • Cinematography: Shoeb Siddiquie
  • Rating: 3.5/5

In the last few years, Telangana culture has had a major influx into mainstream Telugu cinema through stories or characters.

A major reason for that is the consistent portrayal and telling of Telangana by the likes of Priyadarshi Pulikonda, Vishwak Sen, Tharun Bhascker and Siddhu Jonnalagadda.

Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri the new web series streaming on ZEE 5, directed by Pradeep Maddalli and written by Saitej Desheaj is a good addition to this trend. Through the six episodes, Pradeep and Saitej have effectively mixed the Telangana folklore with the detective genre.

The series also pays homage to the legendary Tenali Rama Krishnan, known for his wit and intellect in equal measure.

Synopsis

The story of Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri is set in the 1970s, in a village called Amaragiri. In this village, people lose their memories as soon they visit the haunted Devathala Gutta.

The story then follows Naresh Agastya’s Ramakrishna aka Vikkatakavi. He is not just a brilliant student but is also known for his exceptional investigation skills. Ramakrishna embarks on a dangerous journey for an emotional reason.

A constant tussle between superstitions and rationalism enhances the plot. The show also has some attention-grabbing twists that keep the viewers guessing about the reasons behind these mysterious happenings. There is a strong connection between Ramakrishna’s past and the happenings in Amaragiri, which adds to the emotional quotient, in addition to the thrills.

Strong technical support

Naresh Agastya in Vikkatakavi
Naresh Agastya in ‘Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri’. (X)

A strong aspect of Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri is its world-building. Shoeb Siddiqui’s work, particularly, stands out among the technical aspects. The rustic village atmospherics along with the night sequences set in the forest draw the audiences into the world of Amaragiri.

The production design and costumes are mighty effective in transporting the viewers into a by gone era. Ajay Arsada’s background score is very effective in enhancing the tension-filled sequences.

Apart from the technical aspects Pradeep Malladi also deserves appreciation for how he has integrated the local beliefs of Telangana people with the subplot of a bio war.  Special mention must also be made of the actors playing the village people.

Performances

The romance between Naresh Agastya and Megha Akash is understated without hijacking the central theme. Megha Akash hasn’t got a lot to do but she does have a lovely presence.

Naresh Agastya continues to showcase his versatility with an arresting portrayal of a detective. After this year’s Paruvu Naresh shows a different facet of him. The boyish charm coupled with intensity make him the perfect choice for the central character.

In the supporting cast, Raghu Kanche impresses the most with his terrific act. The way he conveys the negative traits with just expressions is a delight to watch. Tarak Ponnappa and Mukhtar Khan too are proficient in their roles.

Among the speed bumps, the final act needed a much better punch, given the intricate build-up. The final episodes feel lengthy as the viewers tend to form an idea of how things will ultimately go. The series also taps into nationalistic sentiments, but this aspect feels forced.

Final take

Keeping aside the rough edges Vikkatakavi: The Chronicles of Amaragiri is a solid addition to the evolving Telugu OTT space. Definitely worth watching for those like stories with elements of mysticism and thrills.

(Views expressed here are personal, edited by Sumavarsha)

https://thesouthfirst.com/entertainment/telugu/vikkatakavi-the-chronicles-of-amaragiri-web-series-review-an-engrossing-first-of-its-kind-telangana-detective-show/

Posted on

Brinda: A gripping police procedural which examines the side effects of extremism both religious and otherwise

Writer and director Surya Manoj Vangala does an effective job in exploring multiple societal aspects

  • Starcast: Trisha, Ravindra Vijay, Aamani, Indrajith Sukumaran, Anand Sami and others
  • Writer and director: Surya Manoj Vangala
  • Screenplay: Jay Krishna and Padmavathi Malladi
  • Producer: Kolla Ashish
  • Production Company: Adding Advertising LLP
  • Cinematography: Dinesh K Babu
  • Music: Shakti Kanth Karthik
  • No of episodes: 8
  • Streaming site: Sony LIV

Tense investigative dramas are always a treat to watch provided audiences are on tenterhooks. Trisha’s OTT debut not only ticks the required boxes of a suspense thriller/drama, but it also ventures into topics that are tricky in nature. Thankfully Suraj Manoj Vangala along with the screenplay writers do a good job.

Brinda begins with a prologue that is hugely disturbing. A young girl in mid-1990’s becomes a scapegoat in satisfying a goddess, the goddess is said to be very angry with the villagers. This girl wails loudly seeking for help but they fall on deaf ears. No one in the village including the mother and brother question this ritual murder. Brinda web series is peppered with numerous scenes showcasing how even in contemporary society these acts continue in the name of god.

The main plot of Brinda focuses on a newly appointed sub inspector. Trisha’s character is mostly confined to desk related work, she is a victim of casual sexism. Fellow cop Sarathi (Ravindra Vijay) is the only one who treats her with some respect. Later on, they form an unlikely bond that develops into a strong friendship. Brinda is a brooding police officer suffering from anxiety issues, constantly taking pills. Things take a turn when Brinda goes against her superiors when they try to close a murder case as suicide. She starts digging deeper with some help from Sarathi. Soon multiple murders start taking place. The rest of the story is about who is behind these murders while blending the personal and professional lives of Brinda and Sarathi.

Trisha as a newly appointed sub inspector
Ravindra Vijay as Sarathi

A strong aspect of Brinda is its world building. Although Trisha is the central pivot most of the other characters too have been written with lot of care. A very good example of this is the roles played by Anandasami and Ravindra Vijay. Sarathi is someone who is desperately waiting for a better turn in both his professional and personal life. In spite of a brewing inner turmoil Sarathi never loses his humanness. A scene deserving particular mention is Ravindra Vijay’s breakdown, this happens when Sarathi’s personal life takes a crucial turn. The writing coupled with the actor’s performance is simply terrific. Anand Sami as Thakur also chews the scenery with a spine-chilling act. His back story is very touching and in spite of him being an evil person the viewers feel sympathy. In the title role Trisha successfully sheds her glamorous image delivering a nuanced performance. She is successful in portraying both the vulnerabilities and resilience of Brinda.

Indrajith Sukumaran also excels in portraying the charming and calculative nature Dr. Satya/prof. Kabir Anand. The track of sibling’s rivalry though sticks out like a sore thumb. The teenage rebellion of Brinda’s sister Chutki feels like more of an unnecessary add on. Also, the process of an important character stealing someone else’s identity is not so convincing. However, these are just minor blips.

Indrajith Sukumaran excels in portraying the charming and calculative nature

As mentioned previously Brinda is a web series that tackles multiple societal aspects. For example, there is the track of gender discrimination. How Brinda is looked upon in a condescending manner is touched upon in a subtle yet impactful way. The series also highlights the importance of child care in juvenile prisons.

The power of religion in shaping lives and the dangers of blind faith is also an integral aspect of Brinda. These are just some of the numerous themes that the series examines. Surya Manoj Vangala along with the screenplay writers deserve distinction marks for the treatment.

There isn’t much scope for music in a story like Brinda, but Shakthi Kanth Karthick delivers a powerful opening song.

Posted on

Paruvu: An engrossing social thriller encompassing different elements

Siddarth Naidu and Rajasekhar Vadlapati do a wonderful job in merging the various tracks keeping the viewers thoroughly intrigued

  • Starcast: Naresh Agastya, Nivetha Pethuraj, Naga Babu, Praneetha Patnaik and others
  • Directors: Siddarth Naidu and Rajasekhar Vadlapati
  • Writer: Siddarth Naidu
  • Music: Shravan Bhardwaj
  • Cinematography: Vidya Sagar Chinta
  • Producers: L.S Vishnu Prasad and Sushmita Konidela
  • Production Company: Gold Box Entertainment
  • Streaming site: Zee5
  • No of episodes: 8

The topic of honor killing is something that has seen many onscreen depictions. But it never gets old, the hierarchy between upper and lower caste will always remain in some form or other however much the society evolves. The core of Paruvu is honor killing but what makes the show gripping is the intermingling of caste, greed and communal harmony in a thriller format. The world of Paruvu takes a little while getting used to but soon enough the audiences become engrossed.

The world of Paruvu takes a little while getting used to but soon enough the audiences become engrossed

Paruvu begins off with Dolly aka Pallavi (Nivetha Pethuraj) and her husband Sudheer (Naresh Agastya). Dolly had married Sudheer against her family wishes, they still haven’t forgiven her. Dolly and Sudheer are headed to Guntur to pay last respects for the dead uncle. Driving them home is Dolly’s cousin Chandrasekhar aka Chandu (Sunil Komisetty). There is an exchange of heated words. Dolly is pregnant but that in no way softens Chandu. As the journey progresses Dolly becomes extremely suspicious and firmly believes that Chandu has come to bump them off. Things take a huge turn with an unexpected death; further complications arise upon reaching Guntur. Naga Babu plays Ramayya; he represents the caste-based politics. This is the story in brief

Naga babu as Ramayya; He represents the caste-based politics

A major plus of Paruvu are the strongly written characters. All of them come with shades of grey. For example, there is a scene where a major character laments about coming up the hard way but at the same time, he is responsible for another man’s death. In her fight for survival a woman resorts to kidnapping. On certain occasions both Sudheer and Pallavi come across as opportunists who would do anything to save their skin.

What also makes Paruvu engrossing is the funeral background. Key characters are introduced, there is an underlying tension keeping the viewers hooked. The scenes at the funeral also work as a social satire. For example, relatives insult each other in the process of settling old scores. The viewers have the impression of nobody caring for the departed soul.

Among the supporting characters Naga Babu and Praneetha Patnaik deserve a special mention. Naga Babu’s Ramayya wants to become a major politician and uses others as pawns. Praneetha Patnaik’s Swathi on the other hand is the fiancé of a dead man. Swathi is desperate to find where her fiancé has disappeared. She does her own investigation irking Ramayya with her stubbornness. These two subplots give the show some of its best moments.

The role of caste-based politics and how they impact the intertiors of Andhra has also been showcased in a gripping manner. The political set up and the various mechanisams involved have an earthy feel.

Shravan Bardhwaj’s background music is impactful enhancing the drama. Chinta Vidya Sagar’s cinematography is also of a good standard particularly in the scenes which have tension.

Paruvu also benefits from its super talented cast headed by Nivetha Thomas and Naresh Agastya. Nivetha Pethuraj as the pregnant woman is simply splendid. She does a wonderful job in portraying the various moods of Dolly. Naresh Agastya delivers a performance which is subtle yet very impactful. Naga Babu as MLA Ramayya surprises big time with his wonderful performance. He portrays the negative shades with finesse never resorting to over-the-top theatrics. Praneetha Patnaik nails the desperation of Swathi delivering an intense act.

Paruvu is a binge worthy web show for fans of multi layered storytelling. The first-rate performances are an icing on the cake.

Posted on

Bahishkarana: A gripping rural drama which successfully transports the viewers back to the period of feudalistic landlords

Director Mukesh Prajapathi takes a leaf out of Sukumar’s Rangasthalam and also other village based social dramas however he does show his individual stamp

  • Starcast: Anjali, Ravindra Vijay, Sritej, Ananya Nagalla etc
  • Direction and screenplay: Mukesh Prajapathi
  • Dialogues: Shaymu Chennu
  • Music: Siddharth Sadasivuni
  • Cinematography: Prasanna Kumar
  • Production Company: Pixel Pictures Pvt LTD
  • No of episodes: 6
  • OTT platform: Zee 5

Mukesh Prajapathi takes the viewers back to the times of caste discrimination and landlords exploiting young girls of lower social strata. The strange thing is that these upper-class men do not want them in their houses but have no qualms about enjoying them in bed. The story of Bahishkarana isn’t particularly new. The village president Shivaya (Ravindra Vijay) is revered by the villagers of Peddapalli and also the surrounding ones. Darshi (Sritej) is Shivaya’s right-hand man; he reveres Shivaya like the rest. However not surprisingly Shivaya is not what he appears to be, there is an unknown dark side.

To this the director has added the angle of a mysterious woman who pops up in Peddapalli. Pushpa (Anjali) is the personal mistress of Shivaya and is kept far away from the village. Darshi is given the responsibility of looking after Pushpa instead he ends up falling in love with her and she too reciprocates his feelings. But Shivaya obviously isn’t pleased with this development and gets Darshi married to someone else in a cunning manner. As the plot thickens the story takes many turns and deals with different threads. For example, how the villagers come to know about the reality of Shivaya among others.

Darshi and Pushpa falling in love

An aspect which captures the viewer’s attention while watching the show is the period set up. The production design and the cinematography deserve a particular mention. Prasanna Kumar needs to be praised for how he has captured the rustic terrain of Peddapalli through his lens. His cinematography adds immensely in creating the right atmosphere.

Siddarth Sadasivuni’s songs perfectly gel with the nature of the story. My favorite song of the album is Kalaa Nijam, a melodious tune that establishes Darshi and Pushpa falling for each other. He has also delivered an impactful background score particularly in the scenes of tension.

The love story between Darshi and Pushpa has also been well developed. The process of them falling in love is filled with some adorable moments. As viewers you wish they had a happy ending.

Darshi as Shivaya’s right-hand man

Dialogues by Shayam are another asset. His dialogues are power packed with some impactful social commentary on the exploitation of the poor. There are also some powerful scenes showcasing how the society looks at the likes of Pushpa.

What hampers the series somewhat though is the hangover of some village based social dramas particularly those that have featured the legendary actor Rao Gopal Rao. Apart from this the show could have also done with more attention-grabbing twists. The plot mostly runs on a single thread, and this does get monotonous at places.

The performances of the three principal actors elevate the drawbacks in a significant way. Anjali shines bright with her bold performance. Her portrayal of Shivaya’s concubine and also Darshi’s lover deserves distinction marks. Ravindra Vijay also does a splendid job in portraying a quiet menace. Shivaya is someone who portrays himself as a do- gooder from outside but he is actually a womanizer. The actor brings out the subtle variations in a wonderful manner. Sritej also gets into the skin of Darshi. The rugged look coupled with his performance in the emotional scenes deserves distinction marks. Ananya Nagalla is pretty good in her limited screen time.

Anjali shines with her bold performance

Bahishkarana is a must watch for those who like gritty dramas with village background.