Latest Cinema Reviews

Tenant Movie Review: A Socially Relevant Mystery That Misses the Mark

tenant movie review
Tenant Movie Poster

Tenant Movie Review

Satyam Rajesh returns to the screen with “Tenant,” an emotional thriller directed by Y Yungandhar. While the film tackles a significant social issue, the execution falters, leaving viewers wanting more.

A Happy Couple’s Dark Turn

The story revolves around Goutham (Satyam Rajesh) and Sandhya (Megha Chowdhury), a seemingly happy couple whose world is shattered by tragedy. Sandhya’s mysterious death casts suspicion on Goutham, while their neighbor Rishi (Bharath Kanth) attempts suicide. The film unravels the secrets behind this emotional turmoil, exploring the cracks in Goutham and Sandhya’s relationship and the connection to Rishi’s actions.

Hits and Misses

Plus Points:

  • Concise Storytelling: At a crisp 1 hour 30 minutes, “Tenant” avoids unnecessary runtime. This is a breath of fresh air compared to bloated films.
  • Twists with Impact: The last 20 minutes deliver shocking twists and a disturbing truth, adding a layer of intrigue.
  • Social Message: The film bravely tackles a relevant social issue, leaving a lasting impact in the penultimate scenes.
  • Solid Performances: Satyam Rajesh portrays a man grappling with inner turmoil effectively. Megha Chowdhury delivers a believable performance as the innocent wife. Supporting actors Bharath Kanth, Chandana Payyavula, and Esther shine in their roles.

Minus Points:

  • Lack of Tension: The film struggles to create a sense of suspense throughout. Despite aiming to be an emotional thriller, it lacks the necessary thrills to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
  • Slow Burn Pacing: The deliberate slow pace might not appeal to everyone. The attempt to showcase the couple’s tension solely through visuals without dialogue falls flat due to a lackluster background score, leading to boredom.
  • Uneven Narrative: While the second half picks up steam towards the climax, the overall experience feels underwhelming despite the important social theme.

Technical Aspects:

Sahitya Sagar’s music is decent, but the background score fails to elevate the film’s atmosphere. Jemin Jom Ayyaneth’s cinematography complements the film’s subdued tone. Editing could have been tighter, while production values are satisfactory.

Yungandhar’s screenplay, although unconventional, lacks the punch needed to make a lasting impression. The focus on the lead couple’s emotional state dominates the first half, resulting in slow and tedious sequences.

The Verdict:

“Tenant” tackles a significant social issue, but the presentation fails to deliver the full potential of the story. While the performances and shocking twists offer some redeeming qualities, the lack of tension and slow pacing make for a less-than-satisfying viewing experience. With more attention paid to the screenplay and pacing, the film could have left a stronger impact.

Manjummel Boys Telugu Review: Friendship and Survival

The remake of the Malayalam film Manjummel Boys Telugu Review is here, bringing a real-life story of friendship and survival to life. Directed by Chidambaram, the movie takes viewers on a thrilling journey with a group of friends from Manjummel.

The Story:

It’s 2006, and a group of buddies from Manjummel decide to take a trip to Kodaikanal. Inspired by their rival gang’s adventures, they set out to explore the famous Guna Cave. But their fun takes a terrifying turn when one of them falls into a deep pit known as the “Devil’s Kitchen,” a place with a grim reputation. Now, the remaining friends must find a way to save their buddy from this near-impossible situation.

Director Chidambaram weaves a suspenseful story that highlights the power of friendship. The film doesn’t shy away from the emotional weight of the situation, making the stakes feel real. While the actual fall isn’t shown in detail, the tension builds steadily as the rescue mission unfolds.

Standout Moments:

  • Production Design: The team deserves a shoutout for creating a convincing set for the “Devil’s Kitchen” scene.
  • Music & Visuals: The thrilling background score by Shusin Shyam and Shyju Khalid’s stunning visuals enhance the rescue operation sequence, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
  • Character Exploration: The movie goes beyond the rescue, showcasing the emotional impact on the rescued friend. This adds depth to the story.
  • Performances: Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, and the entire cast deliver strong performances, portraying the bond between the friends effectively.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Slow Start: The initial sequences in the first half feel a little slow. The movie takes time to build momentum and introduce the characters effectively.
  • Predictability: The simple story might leave some viewers guessing the ending.
  • Pacing: The first half could have benefited from tighter editing to keep the audience engaged from the beginning.

Technical Aspects:

The film boasts impressive technical work, with top-notch production design, sound design, and cinematography. Shusin Shyam’s music deserves special mention for adding a layer of suspense to the narrative. While Chidambaram’s direction excels in the emotional aspects and the rescue sequence, the pacing in the first half could have been sharper.

The Verdict:

Manjummel Boys is a well-made survival thriller that packs an emotional punch. The second half delivers a captivating rescue operation, thanks to the strong performances and technical finesse. However, the slow start and predictability might hold the film back for some viewers.

The Family Star Review: A Silent Family Drama

The Family Star Review

the family star review
The Family Star Poster

Movie Name: The Family Star
Release Date: April 5, 2024
Rating: 2.75/5
Starring: Vijay Deverakonda, Mrunal Thakur, Jagapathi Babu, Vasuki, Abhinaya, Vennela Kishore and others
Director: Parasuram Petla
Producers: Dil Raju

Story:

“The Family Star” revolves around Govardhan, an architect from a humble background, who prioritizes his family’s well-being. His life takes a turn when Indu, a student, becomes his tenant, unraveling unexpected truths. As their stories intertwine, the movie explores the complexities of relationships and identity.

Highlights:

  • Vijay Deverakonda shines in portraying the middle-class protagonist, while Mrunal Thakur impresses with her character’s evolution.
  • The film’s songs are visually appealing, and intermittent comedy adds to the entertainment.

Drawbacks:

  • Despite its promise as a substantial love story, “The Family Star” falls short in delivering compelling emotional moments.
  • The screenplay lacks cohesion, and the second half pales in comparison to the first, with underutilized supporting characters.

Verdict:

While “The Family Star” offers moments of entertainment, its shortcomings, including a lack of emotional depth and a weak storyline, may deter some viewers. Nonetheless, Vijay Deverakonda and Mrunal Thakur’s performances make it worth considering for a weekend watch.

Tillu Square Review: Laugh Out Loud with Tillu’s Witty Return

tillu square review
Tillu Square Movie Poster

Remember DJ Tillu, the hilarious event organizer who charmed audiences with his jokes and quirky style? Well, he’s back in Tillu Square, and this time, he’s bringing the laughs along with him!

Siddhu Jonnalagadda once again owns the screen as Tillu. His witty one-liners, hilarious body language, and spot-on comedic timing are sure to have you rolling in the aisles. If you enjoyed DJ Tillu, you’ll love Tillu Square! This sequel is a laugh riot, especially in the second half, where Tillu’s non-stop humor takes center stage.

Anupama Parameswaran plays Lilly, Tillu’s love interest, and their chemistry sizzles on screen. The supporting cast, including Muralidhar Goud and Prince Cecil, also add to the film’s fun vibe.

Overall all Tillu Square Review:

Positives:

  • Siddhu Jonnalagadda Steals the Show: Siddhu Jonnalagadda once again shines as Tillu. His witty one-liners, hilarious body language, and spot-on comedic timing are sure to have you rolling in the aisles.
  • Non-Stop Entertainment in the Second Half: The film picks up steam in the second half, delivering non-stop humor and keeping the audience entertained.
  • Great Chemistry: The lead pair, Siddhu Jonnalagadda and Anupama Parameswaran, share sizzling chemistry on screen.
  • Solid Supporting Cast: Actors like Muralidhar Goud and Prince Cecil add to the film’s fun vibe with their performances.

Negatives:

  • Slow First Half: The movie struggles to find its rhythm in the first half, feeling sluggish compared to the fast-paced second half.
  • Repetitive Gags: The love story relies heavily on gags, and some of them miss the mark, failing to land the laughs they aim for.
  • Deja Vu Feels: The plot borrows heavily from its predecessor, DJ Tillu. There’s a sense of familiarity in some scenes, and the overall story feels unoriginal.
  • Forced Elements: A few scenes go overboard on silliness, and the final twist feels forced, taking away from the overall flow of the movie.

Verdict:

Despite these shortcomings, Tillu Square is a worthy sequel to DJ Tillu. Siddhu Jonnalagadda’s performance is the heart of the film, and his comedic timing is spot-on. The energetic second half makes up for the slightly sluggish first half.

So, should you watch Tillu Square? If you enjoyed DJ Tillu and are looking for a fun, light-hearted comedy, then this movie is definitely for you. Just be prepared for a familiar story and some goofy moments.

Stay tuned for Tillu Square OTT Release Date details and Updates.

Om Bheem Bush Movie Review: A Magical Adventure

Om Bheem Bush Movie Review

om bheem bush movie review
Om Bheem Bush Movie Poster

Om Bheem Bush Release Information:

  • Movie Name: Om Bheem Bush
  • Release Date: March 22, 2024
  • Rating: 3.25/5

Om Bheem Bush Cast and Crew:

  • Starring: Sree Vishnu, Priyadarshi, Rahul Ramakrishna, Preethi Mukundhan, Ayesha Khan, Srikanth
  • Director: Sree Harsha Konuganti
  • Producers: V Celluloid, Sunil Balusu
  • Music Director: Sunny M.R.
  • Cinematographer: Raj Thota

Story:

Om Bheem Bush follows the journey of three friends – Krish, Vinay, and Madhav – who embark on an adventure in the haunted village of Bhairavakona to uncover hidden treasure guarded by the ghost Sampangi. The movie delves into their encounters, challenges, and ultimate quest for the treasure.

Plus Points:

  1. Captivating Narrative Blend: “Om Bheem Bush” presents a captivating blend of horror, comedy, and emotion, creating an immersive cinematic experience for viewers.
  2. Standout Performances: The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, with actors like Sree Vishnu, Priyadarshi, and Rahul Ramakrishna bringing depth and charm to their respective roles.
  3. Skillful Direction: Director Sree Harsha Konuganti demonstrates skillful direction and execution, ensuring that the film maintains a compelling pace and keeps audiences engaged throughout.
  4. Ingenious Marketing: The director’s ingenious marketing strategies set the stage for an immersive experience, enticing viewers to surrender to the fantastical elements of the story.

Minus Points:

  1. Lapses in Logic: Despite its engaging narrative, “Om Bheem Bush” occasionally leaves viewers with unanswered questions and lapses in logic, which may detract from the overall viewing experience.
  2. Underdeveloped Characters: Secondary characters, including the heroine Preethi Mukundan, lack development, diminishing their impact on the storyline and leaving room for improvement in character depth.
  3. Pacing Issues: The film experiences pacing issues in the first half, with certain scenes feeling unnecessarily prolonged, which could have been addressed to maintain a more consistent flow in the narrative.

Technical Points:

  1. Creative Sound Design: Sunny MR’s creative sound design enhances the cinematic experience, creating unique atmospheres and adding depth to key moments in the film.
  2. Flawless Cinematography: Cinematographer Raj Thota’s flawless cinematography captures the essence of each scene flawlessly, contributing to the overall visual appeal of “Om Bheem Bush.”
  3. Meticulous Production Design: The meticulous attention to detail in production design shines through, with the art department’s efforts contributing significantly to the immersive world-building of the film.

Verdict:

Om Bheem Bush offers an entertaining cinematic experience enriched by decent performances and engaging storytelling. Despite minor flaws, it’s a recommended choice for weekend entertainment, especially for those who enjoy humor and fantasy elements in movies.

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.