Guntur Kaaram Movie Review: Mahesh Babu’s Mass Drama Falls Short – 2.5 Stars
The much-anticipated collaboration of Trivikram Srinivas and Mahesh Babu, “Guntur Kaaram,” hits the screens with high expectations. However, despite the star power, the film falls short of delivering the expected mass masala entertainment. Let’s dive into the review to explore the highs and lows.
Introduction:
“Guntur Kaaram” promised an ultra-mass treat from Mahesh Babu under the direction of Trivikram Srinivas. The film revolves around Ramana (Mahesh Babu) and the mysterious circumstances of his mother’s departure. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of political influences, family ties, and the protagonist’s quest for answers.
Cast:
Mahesh Babu, in the role of Veera Venkata Ramana alias “Rowdy” Ramana, shines with his mass appeal and all-round performance. Sreeleela, portraying the character of Amukta “Ammu” Malyada, Pani’s daughter, and Ramana’s love interest, impresses with her dance moves, adding a touch of entertainment. However, the supporting cast, including Jagapathi Babu as Marx, Lenin’s brother, and others, seems underutilized, with characters like Raji (Meenakshi Chaudhary), Vasundhara (Ramya Krishnan), “Royal” Satyam (Jayaram), and Venkata Swamy (Prakash Raj) lacking depth and impact in the overall narrative.
Music:
Thaman’s music fails to make a significant mark, with a lackluster background score and passable songs. The soundtrack, including “Dum Masala” and “Kurchi Madathapetti,” struggles to elevate the movie’s overall impact.
Cinematography:
The visual presentation lacks the grandeur expected from such a collaboration. The cinematography fails to capture the vibrancy and energy needed for a mass masala entertainer, contributing to the film’s overall shortcomings.
Producer:
S Radha Krishna’s production fails to translate the grand expectations into a visually compelling experience. Despite the star-studded cast and renowned director, the production values do not meet the anticipated standards.
Writer and Director:
Trivikram Srinivas, known for his unique storytelling and wit, disappoints with a stale plot and uninspiring dialogues. The narrative, revolving around a separated wife and son trope, feels repetitive and lacks the freshness expected from the director.
Story:
The narrative of “Guntur Kaaram” revolves around Venkata Ramana (Mahesh Babu), who faces estrangement from his parents early in life. His father, portrayed by Jayaram, is imprisoned in a murder case, leading his mother, played by Ramya krishna, to remarry and leave him behind. Raised in Guntur by his great-aunt and maternal uncle, Ramana manages the chili business passed down through the family.
The plot takes a turn when Ramana receives a call from his mother, prompting discussions about property shares and a pivotal moment in their strained relationship. The story unfolds as the mother-son bond faces challenges and reaches unexpected junctures.
The film’s plot, centered on family dynamics, political influences, and the protagonist’s journey, falls flat due to a lack of innovation and poor execution. The narrative fails to engage the audience effectively, with logic gaps and forced comedy hindering the storytelling.
Analysis:
“Guntur Kaaram” struggles to break free from the routine formula of Trivikram’s recent films, and the weak first half puts immense pressure on the latter part. The movie lacks Trivikram’s trademark comedy and one-liners, contributing to a lackluster cinematic experience. The climax, expected to be a saving grace, falls short of the director’s known standards.
Performances:
While Mahesh Babu puts in commendable efforts with a strong screen presence, the weak plot and uninspiring narrative limit the impact of his performance. Sreeleela’s dance moves provide moments of entertainment, but the overall chemistry between the cast members fails to create memorable scenes.
Technicians:
Both the director and music director fail to deliver their best work in “Guntur Kaaram.” The substandard background music and uninspired cinematography contribute to the film’s technical shortcomings.
Verdict:
“Guntur Kaaram” struggles to live up to the expectations set by the collaboration of Trivikram and Mahesh Babu. Despite Mahesh Babu’s whistle-worthy performance, the film falters with a stale plot, lackluster dialogues, and uninspiring technical aspects.