What is the story?
Abhi (Atharva) is an aspiring filmmaker who wants to make a grand entry to films. He takes a wild route of learning the life a real don by observing him closely. He reaches out to Gaddalakonda Ganesh (Varun Tej) and makes the movie out of observations. Will he be able to get it done and how his life will be affected by this?
Harish Shankar’s Telugu directorial Gaddalakonda Ganesh (Valmiki) has finally released today. Starring Varun Tej, Atharvaa, Pooja Hegde and Mrinalini Ravi the film has a grand cast. The movie had created immense buzz ahead of its release. Each character poster of Valmiki has created huge amount of buzz. It is the Telugu remake of the Tamil movie Jigarthanda. Pooja Hegde has replaced the role of Lakshmi Menon from the original version while Varun Tej essays the gangster role. The movie has opened on a good note and is getting positive reports all over.
Varun Tej’s Performance?
Varun Tej is mastering the art of picking variety roles. He chose to be the gangster this time while he impressed us in the role of astronaut last time. The makeover of Varun Tej caught the eyes of the audience and went viral. With raging eyes and punch dialogues, he takes the feel of the audience to the next level. Varun Tej has done his part well but the depth in the character is too short. The character doesn’t makes a memorable experience just like a normal gangster film. The dialogues and looks make up to some extent but, nothing special is offered through the role.
Other star Performances?
Atharva, the Tamil star debuts in Telugu with Valmiki. He does a good job with acting and perfect fit for the role. However his voice seemed a bit odd hence dubbing could have been improved. Mrinalini Ravi and Pooja Hegde are the female leads in the movie. Pooja hedge wins over the heart with cute expressions and lovely attire. She does her part as a good supporting heroine and is the biggest plus of the film. Brahmaji starts well but slowly seemed to be bit odd. Sathya does a good job in the role of henchman. Tanikella Bharani has a short stay but impressive performance. Mrinalini Ravi also impresses with her lovely role.
Direction by Harish Shankar?
Harish Shankar has the track record of picking simple stories and making it entertaining. The problem which always had dragged him behind is the smoothness of the second half. The gangster role of Varun Tej is written a bit differently apart from usual Telugu movies. Small twists and the power of script makes first half good. The pre-interval and interval block especially create great expectations about the second half. Though an official remake, the director uses his ideas and improvises well.
The plot becomes well predictable and that also adds to the dampness in the second half. The power of the first half and the performances is enough to attract the audience. This will be a strictly one time watch without too much expectations.
Technical Departments?
Mickey J Mayer does a great job with the music and songs. The mass BGM’s seemed very much impressive.The cinematography is excellent and it adds to the essence of the movie. In total it was able to give a micro ‘Gabbar Singh’ feel. Editing department draws the movie behind and slows the second half. Dialogues are heavy and is perfectly created to feel the intensity.
Major Highlights?
- Varun Tej’s Stylish avatar
- Harish Shankar’s Energetic Writing
- First half
Drawbacks?
- Length
- Second Half