Latest Cinema Reviews

Behind the Scenes of “Ramabanam”: Gopichand Opens Up

Last year, popular actor Gopichand starred in the family action movie “Ramabanam,” directed by Sriwass. It was anticipated to be a success following their previous hits together, but unfortunately, it didn’t meet expectations and resulted in losses.

Gopichand shared during the promotion of his next film, “Bhimaa,” that the emotional connection in “Ramabanam” didn’t resonate well with the audience. He emphasized the importance of presenting a fresh storyline to capture viewers’ interest. As the production progressed, it became apparent that the movie was not on the right track, leading to budget overruns and eventual disappointment.

Gopichand also revealed disagreements over unnecessary scenes during filming, which were eventually cut from the final version and released separately on YouTube.

Operation Valentine Struggle at the Box Office

“Operation Valentine,” the latest cinematic offering starring Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar and directed by Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, made its much-anticipated debut in theaters last Friday, drawing a mix of reviews from audiences.

Despite garnering praise from viewers, the film has faced challenges in translating that acclaim into significant box office earnings, placing today’s performance under the spotlight. This aerial action spectacle boasts an ensemble cast, featuring Navdeep, Ali Reza, Sampath, Ruhani Sharma, Paresh Pahuja, Shataf Figar, and more, in pivotal roles.

Produced by Sony Pictures International and Sandeep Mudda, with musical compositions by Mickey J Meyer, “Operation Valentine” promises an adrenaline-filled experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for further updates on the latest releases as the film navigates its journey through theaters.

Operation Valentine Review | An Action-Packed Entertainment 

Operation Valentine Review

operation valentine review
Operation Valentine Release Poster
  • Operation Valentine Rating: 3/5
  • Starring: Varun Tej, Manushi Chhillar, Navdeep, Ruhani Sharma, Paresh Pahuja, Shataf Figar, Sampath, Ali Reza
  • Director: Shakti Pratap Singh Hada
  • Release Date: March 01, 2024

Mega Prince Varun Tej takes flight in Tollywood’s first aerial action spectacle, “Operation Valentine.” Released today, the film promises high-octane thrills and patriotic fervor. Let’s see if it delivers!

Story:

Varun Tej plays Arjun Dev (codename Rudra), a courageous Indian Air Force Wing Commander. He faces personal tragedy and professional challenges when his friend dies during a test flight and a terror attack rocks the nation.

The Good:

  • Varun Tej shines: He delivers a convincing performance as the dedicated and conflicted airman, carrying the film on his shoulders.
  • Manushi Chhillar impresses: Making her Telugu debut, she plays Arjun’s love interest and fellow IAF officer with commendable screen presence.
  • Action takes off: The film’s highlight is the second half’s aerial combat sequences. They’re genuinely engaging and capture the intensity of an air strike operation.

The Not-So-Good:

  • Uneven pacing: The first half struggles to find its footing with unnecessary scenes that slow down the narrative. The romantic track feels forced in the midst of the film’s serious tone.
  • Missed emotional connection: While it attempts to portray the impact of the terror attack, the film falls short of delivering a truly impactful and emotionally resonant experience.
  • Underutilized characters: Actors like Ruhani Sharma and Paresh Pahuja could have played a more significant role in the story, adding depth and complexity.

Technical aspects:

  • Direction: While director Shakti Pratap Singh Hada does an okay job, a tighter script and more engaging storytelling could have elevated the film.
  • Dialogue: Sai Madhav Burra’s dialogues miss the mark, particularly in capturing the spirit of patriotism.
  • Music and visuals: Mickey J Meyer’s music is decent, but there are moments where a more powerful score could have heightened the experience. Hari K Vedantam’s cinematography is commendable.
  • Editing and VFX: Some scenes, especially in the first half, feel unnecessary and could benefit from tighter editing. The film’s visual effects are satisfactory, but could have been further refined for enhanced realism.

Verdict:

“Operation Valentine” is a decent watch with its aerial action sequences and solid performances from Varun Tej and Manushi Chhillar. However, the uneven first half, unnecessary elements, and lack of emotional depth hold it back from reaching its full potential. If you’re looking for some action-packed entertainment this weekend, it might be worth a shot. But for those expecting a truly gripping and emotionally resonant war drama, this film might not quite hit the mark.

Masthu Shades Unnai Ra Review | A Mixed Bag with Abhinav Debut Drama

Masthu Shades Unnai Ra Review

masthu shades unnai ra review
Masthu Shades Unnai Ra Movie Poster

Abhinav Gomatam steps out of the comedy zone and into the lead role of Masthu Shades Unnai Ra. This film follows Manohar, an artist who faces heartbreak after his bride runs away. He sets out to prove himself by starting a printing business, encountering love and challenges along the way.

Cast: Abhinav Gomatam, Vaishali Raj, Ali Reza, Moin, Aananda Chakrapani, Lavanya Reddy, and others

Thumbs Up:

  • Abhinav Gomatam shines: Stepping away from comedy, Abhinav delivers a convincing performance showcasing his range as an actor.
  • Vaishali Raj impresses: The female lead delivers a strong performance, creating a cute romance with the protagonist.
  • Engaging moments: Both halves have some entertaining scenes, particularly the friend’s situational humor and Manohar’s business struggles.
  • Sensible writing: The dialogues and overall script avoid being overly dramatic, offering a relatable story.

Thumbs Down:

  • Lack of emotional depth: The film’s focus on character development falls short, leaving emotional scenes lacking impact.
  • Misleading title: The title doesn’t accurately reflect the film’s storyline, creating false expectations for viewers.
  • Dragged climax: The ending feels predictable and stretches on unnecessarily, losing momentum.
  • Technical shortcomings: Except for the catchy music, aspects like cinematography and editing could have been improved.

The Verdict:

Masthu Shades Unnai Ra offers a decent watch with its sincere attempt at portraying a personal journey. While Abhinav and Vaishali’s performances are commendable, the film falters in its emotional connection and predictable narrative. If you’re looking for a lighthearted story with some humor and can overlook the drawbacks, give it a try.

Mammootty Bramayugam Review | A Slow-Burning Mystery Thriller

mammootty latest movie bramayugam review
Bramayugam Movie Poster

Bramayugam Review

Step into the shadows of the 17th century with Mammootty latest film, “Bramayugam,” that dares to be different. This black-and-white mystery thriller is not for the faint of heart, offering a slow-burning exploration of power, fear, and the supernatural.

The Story:

Arjun Ashokan, a runaway slave, seeks refuge in the opulent mansion of the enigmatic Kudumon Potti (Mammootty). But the mansion holds secrets as dark as its decaying walls. As Thevan navigates the twisted games of his host, a chilling truth emerges – a truth that threatens not only his life but also his sanity.

Positives:

  • Mammootty’s Masterful Performance: The legendary actor delivers a tour-de-force as the enigmatic Potti, his nuanced portrayal and chilling presence captivating throughout.
  • Hauntingly Beautiful Atmosphere: The film’s black-and-white cinematography and haunting score create a truly unsettling atmosphere, drawing you deeper into the mansion’s secrets.
  • Subtle Social Commentary: Director Rahul Sadasivan masterfully weaves social themes into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.
  • Technical Excellence: From the meticulous production design to the evocative sound design, every element contributes to the film’s immersive experience.

Negatives:

  • Slow-Burn Pace: Be prepared for a deliberate and patient narrative, as the film unfolds at its own pace. This may not appeal to viewers seeking fast-paced thrills.
  • Limited Scope: The story primarily takes place within the mansion, which might feel restrictive for some viewers.
  • Uneven Pacing: While the first half builds suspense effectively, the latter half may feel less impactful for some.

The Verdict:

“Bramayugam” is a unique and ambitious film that pushes boundaries. Mammootty’s performance and the film’s technical brilliance are undeniable. However, its slow pace and limited scope might not resonate with all audiences. If you’re seeking a different kind of horror experience, “Bramayugam” is worth a watch. But if you prefer a more conventional and fast-paced thrill ride, you might want to look elsewhere.

Sundaram Master Review: A Comedy-Drama with Mixed Results

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sundaram master review
Sundaram Master Poster

Sundaram Master Review

Harsha Chemudu, aka Viva Harsha, takes the lead in Sundaram Master, a comedy-drama with a mysterious twist. Sundaram Master Released today, the film offers some laughs and a charming cast, but a slow second half and a thin plot hold it back.

Story:

Sundar Rao (Harsha) arrives in a remote village as an English teacher, but his mission goes beyond grammar lessons! Watch the movie to find out what secrets he holds and how the villagers react to him.

What’s good:

  • Harsha shines in his debut, delivering funny lines and expressing himself well, just like in his previous work.
  • The film’s first half is full of humor, especially with the funny interactions between Harsha and the villagers. The actors, especially Balakrishna Neelakantapu, do a great job too.

What’s not so good:

  • The story is simple, but the movie could have been more exciting, especially in the second half. It gets a bit slow and loses some of its humor.
  • The emotional scenes in the second half aren’t as strong as they could be.
  • Some characters, like Divya Sripada and Harsha Vardhan, don’t have a big impact on the story.
  • Even cool moments like Harsha convincing Harsha Vardhan feel a bit awkward.
  • Tech stuff:
  • The director tried to make the film fun, but a stronger story and script would have made it better.
  • The music and cinematography are okay, but the editing flows smoothly. The sets are well-made, and the production looks good.

The verdict:

Sundaram Master is an okay comedy-drama. Harsha’s performance and the funny scenes are good, but the thin story, slow pace, and lack of strong emotions in the second half bring it down. You might want to consider other options this weekend.

Bramayugam OTT Rights: Rumors Surround Mammootty Latest Hit

Mammootty’s latest film, “Bramayugam,” directed by Rahul Sadasivam, has gained widespread attention worldwide. There’s high anticipation, especially in Telugu-speaking areas, for its release. Although there are rumors about Sony LIV acquiring the OTT rights, there’s no official confirmation yet.

Produced by Chakravarthy Ramachandra and Sashikanth, “Bramayugam” features a talented cast including Arjun Ashokan, Sidharth Bharathan, and Amalda Liz, with Christo Xavier as the music director. Stay tuned for updates on the “Bramayugam OTT” release.

OTT Bhamakalapam 2 Review: From Crime Comedy to Heist Thriller

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Bhamakalapam 2 Review

ott bhamakalapam 2 review: from crime comedy to heist thriller
Bhamakalapam 2 Poster

Bhamakalapam 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2022 web film, has arrived on Aha, promising a genre shift from crime comedy to heart-pounding heist thriller. So, does it live up to the hype? Let’s crack the case.

Plot Twists & Turning Tables:

This sequel picks up where the original left off, but with a surprising twist: instead of lighthearted antics, Anupama (played by the ever-impressive Priyamani) finds herself embroiled in a dangerous game. Teaming up with her loyal maid Shilpa (Sharanya Pradeep), she enters a cooking competition hosted by the enigmatic Antony Lobo, whose motives are far from culinary. Blackmailed by a corrupt officer, Anupama must steal the competition’s trophy to secure her freedom. The question is, why? And what secrets does the trophy hold?

Hits:

  • Priyamani’s Masterclass: The film shines thanks to Priyamani’s masterful transformation. She sheds the innocent facade of the first film and embodies a confident, determined woman, showcasing her acting prowess at its finest.
  • Sharanya Pradeep’s Comedy Touch: Sharanya Pradeep remains a source of lighthearted humor, adding much-needed comedic relief to the tense heist plot.
  • Raghu Mukharjee’s Villainous Demeanor: Raghu Mukharjee delivers a chilling portrayal of the antagonist, adding a layer of menace to the narrative.

Misses:

  • Predictable Plot: While the genre shift is commendable, the script stumbles with predictability. Key plot points unfold too easily, robbing the story of its suspenseful edge.
  • Underused Potential: Sharanya Pradeep’s comedic talent could have been further explored, and Seerat Kapoor’s inclusion feels more glamorous than impactful.
  • Pacing Issues: The film takes time to build momentum, and the climax feels rushed, leaving viewers desiring a more satisfying resolution.

Technical Aspects:

Director Abhimanyu Tadimeti handles the action sequences with competence, but the film could benefit from tighter editing, especially in the first half. The background score lacks the punch needed to elevate the tension, while the cinematography captures the visuals effectively.

Verdict:

Bhamakalapam 2 offers a mixed bag of entertainment. Priyamani’s performance is a highlight, and the heist premise holds some intrigue. However, predictability and pacing issues hold the film back. If you’re a fan of Priyamani and enjoy heist thrillers, give it a shot, but manage your expectations. This sequel might not quite crack the case of a truly gripping narrative.

Ooru Peru Bhairavakona Review: Is This Fantasy Film Worth Your Time?

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Ooru Peru Bhairavakona Movie Review

ooru peru bhairavakona movie review
Ooru Peru Bhairavakona Movie Poster

Sundeep Kishan latest movie, “Ooru Peru Bhairavakona,” promises a genre-bending mix of fantasy, romance, and humor. But does it deliver the magic it conjures in its trailer? Let’s delve into the world of Bhairavakona and see if it holds its own.

Story:

Basava (Sundeep Kishan), a stunt double desperate for cash, makes a bad decision. His escape with stolen loot lands him in the enigmatic Bhairavakona, along with his friend John (Viva Harsha) and Agraharam Geetha (Kavya Thapar). What unfolds is a journey through fantastical landscapes and encounters with the mysterious Bhoomi (Varsha Bollamma). Will Basava find redemption, and what secrets lie within Bhairavakona?

Hits:

  • Sundeep Kishan shines: The actor commits fully to Basava, showcasing his versatility with convincing body language and dialogue delivery. His camaraderie with Viva Harsha adds a spark to the film.
  • Kavya Thapar steals the show: With ample screen time, she delivers both comedic timing and emotional depth.
  • Humor hits the mark: Viva Harsha and Vennela Kishore provide much-needed laughs with their witty one-liners.

Misses:

  • Lost in translation: The love story, crucial to the plot, lacks chemistry between the leads, making emotional moments fall flat.
  • Genre confusion: The film attempts a blend of fantasy, comedy, and horror, but execution falters, leaving viewers disoriented.
  • Mystery fizzles: The promised suspense surrounding Bhairavakona never truly materializes, leaving the audience unengaged.
  • Second-half stumbles: The pacing becomes rushed, and the climax feels abrupt, leaving viewers unsatisfied.

Technical Aspects:

  • Music: Shekar Chandra’s songs are catchy but feel misplaced within the narrative.
  • Visuals: The art direction is impressive, and Raj Thota’s cinematography captures the distinct village setting.
  • Editing: The second half’s rushed pace detracts from the viewing experience.
  • VFX: Could have been more polished to enhance the fantastical elements.

Verdict:

“Ooru Peru Bhairavakona Movie” is an ambitious attempt that falters in its execution. While the first half offers some fun moments and engaging performances, the second half disappoints with its weak narrative and lack of emotional depth. If you’re seeking a tightly woven story with clear genre boundaries, this film might leave you wanting. However, if you’re open to a quirky adventure with sparks of humor and Sundeep Kishan’s charisma, you might find some entertainment in Bhairavakona. Just manage your expectations and prepare for a bumpy ride.

Ooru Peru Bhairavakona Premieres Witness Unprecedented Success

Telugu thriller Sundeep Kishan latest movie “Ooru Peru Bhairavakona,” is set to dazzle audiences with its fantastical narrative, marking the actor’s second collaboration with director VI Anand. The film is slated for a grand release this Friday.

Building anticipation, the producers have arranged paid premieres across Telugu states and major cities, scheduled for tomorrow. Remarkably, tickets for these exclusive screenings have rapidly sold out in many regions, reflecting the robust promotional efforts and generating positive buzz around the film’s impending success.

“Ooru Peru Bhairavakona” stars Varsha Bollamma and Kavya Thapar as the female leads, with Harsha Chemudu, Rajasekhar Aningi, Vennela Kishore, Kushee Ravi, and others portraying pivotal characters. Produced by Razesh Danda under the Hasya Movies banner and presented by AK Entertainment, the movie features music by Shekar Chandra.