Sankranthiki Vasthunnam Movie Review: Venkatesh and Anil Ravipudi Strike Again!
Sarkar Rating: 2.75/5 Release Date : January 14, 2025
Cast
Venkatesh, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Aishwarya Rajesh, Srinivasa Reddy, Naresh, Sai Kumar, Upendra Limaye, VTV Ganesh, Srinivas Avasarala, and others
Crew
Director Anil Ravipudi,Producer Dil Raju,Banner Sri Venkateswara Creations,Music Bheems Ceciroleo
Victory Venkatesh and Anil Ravipudi reunite for the third time with Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, aiming for a hat-trick of hits. With the chart-topping song “Godari Gattu Meeda” and an extensive promotional campaign, the film has generated considerable buzz. Does this team succeed in delivering another blockbuster? Let’s dive into the details.
Plot Summary
Y D Raju (Venkatesh), a retired cop and encounter specialist, enjoys a peaceful life with his wife (Aishwarya Rajesh), four children, and a large family in a village near Rajahmundry. His ex-girlfriend (Meenakshi Chaudhary), also a cop, approaches him for help in a covert rescue mission. Who is to be rescued, and why does Raju’s wife insist on joining the mission? The answers form the crux of the story.
Performances
Venkatesh excels in a role that plays to his strengths, combining humor and action. His comedic timing and heartfelt performance as a loving husband are standout moments, especially during a pivotal fight sequence in the second half.
Aishwarya Rajesh delivers a commendable performance as a devoted and possessive wife, earning special mention for her role in the first half. Meenakshi Chaudhary shines as the confident ex-girlfriend, holding her own alongside seasoned actors.
The child actor playing Bulliraju steals the show, with his scenes in the first half providing significant highlights. Upendra Limaye, despite a substantial role, occasionally overacts, testing audience patience. Srinivasa Reddy and Sai Kumar bring some light-hearted moments in the second half, while Naresh, VTV Ganesh, and Srinivas Avasarala deliver adequate performances.
Technical Aspects
Bheems Ceciroleo’s music, especially “Godari Gattu Meeda,” is a major asset, reviving classic melodies in Telugu cinema. The background score complements the narrative well.
Sameer Reddy’s cinematography is functional but lacks visual flair, reflecting a modest budget. Tammiraju’s editing could have been sharper, particularly in the pre-interval segment.
Sri Venkateswara Creations provides adequate production values, though the film’s budget constraints are evident in several scenes.
Positives:
- Engaging sequences involving Bulliraju
- Venkatesh’s comedic timing
- Aishwarya Rajesh’s heartfelt performance
- Pre-climax sequence featuring Venkatesh
- Melodious songs by Bheems Ceciroleo
Negatives:
- Over-the-top sequences in the second half
- Upendra Limaye’s forced comedy
- Lack of a cohesive story
- Illogical writing in parts
Analysis
Anil Ravipudi’s winning formula of blending simple stories with humor continues with Sankranthiki Vasthunnam. The first half sets a decent pace, with well-executed comedy sequences and songs keeping the audience engaged.
However, the second half falters due to rushed writing and over-the-top comedy, which feels forced and undercooked. Upendra Limaye’s character, in particular, doesn’t land as intended. The climax introduces a social message that seems disconnected from the rest of the film, diminishing its impact.
Despite these shortcomings, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam offers enough entertainment for families, especially during the festive season. It’s a passable entertainer that, while not perfect, has moments of charm and humor that resonate with its target audience.
Verdict: Sankranthiki Vasthunnam – A Decent Family Entertainer
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