Bharathanatyam Movie Review

This week, the long-awaited family-centric movie “Bharathanatyam” finally graces the silver screen. Its reception among audiences remains uncertain, especially amidst the release of several smaller and dubbed films. “Bharathanatyam,” from its trailers, promises a cinematic experience reminiscent of the iconic K. Vishwanath’s style, hinting at elements of dance and drama akin to “Kani Kaadu.” Let’s delve deeper into what this film has to offer:

Synopsis: Raju Sundaram (portrayed by Surya Teja Aelay), an aspiring filmmaker working as an assistant director, finds himself entangled in financial woes plaguing his family. With his mother’s illness and pressure from his girlfriend (Meenakshi Goswami) to tie the knot, Raju Sundaram is compelled to explore unconventional means of earning. How did he navigate these challenges, and what fate befell his family? This forms the crux of the narrative.

Acting: Surya Teja Aelay makes his debut as a lead actor in this production. However, his performance falls short of expectations. Despite efforts from seasoned actors like Viva Harsha and Harsha Vardhan to inject humor, the film struggles to captivate. While the return of veteran actor Krishnudu adds some anticipation, his character fails to leave a lasting impression. Nonetheless, Temper Vamsi manages to deliver moments of intensity, while Ajay Ghosh shines with his signature acting style.

Technical Execution: Directed by KVR Mahendra, known for his work in “Dorasaani,” “Bharathanatyam” suffers from technical inconsistencies. Despite Surya Teja Aelay’s involvement in the story and screenplay, there’s a sense of something missing. It’s unclear whether KVR Mahendra’s directorial vision truly manifests in the final product or if his role was merely promotional. The film’s failure to sustain the initial hype remains a puzzling aspect. While producer Payal Saraf’s investment is evident, production values lack a certain finesse. Venkat R. Shakamuri’s cinematography, while satisfactory, fails to provide a standout feature.

Critical Analysis: “Bharathanatyam” endeavors to emulate the crime-comedy narrative of “Swamy Ra Ra,” albeit with limited success. Despite initial anticipation, the film struggles to hold the audience’s attention, making it a challenging theatrical experience.

Rating: 2.75/5