Rating: 2/5 | Duration: 2 Hr 9 Mins | Genre: Action | Release Date: 24-11-2023
Cast:
- Panja Vaisshnav Tej
- Sreeleela
- Joju George
- Sada
- Suman
- Radhika Sarathkumar
- Others
Director: N. Srikanth Reddy
Producers: Naga Vamsi S & Sai Soujanya
Banner: Sithara Entertainments, Fortune Four Cinemas
Music: GV Prakash Kumar
Overview:
Vaisshnav Tej, who made a mark with his debut in Uppena, faces the challenge of turning his luck around with Aadikeshava. Paired with debutante director N. Srikanth Reddy and co-star Sreeleela, will this film bring success back to Vaisshnav? Let’s find out!
Story:
Balu (Vaisshnav), a cheerful guy from a middle-class background, falls for his boss Chitra (Sreeleela), who belongs to a wealthy and influential family. As Chitra’s father discovers Balu’s surprising past, the plot thickens. Who is Balu, and how is he linked to the dangers posed by illegal mining baron Chenga Reddy (Joju George)? Will Balu save Brahmasamudram and the Lord Siva temple?
Performances:
Vaisshnav impresses in a role that challenges his usual image. While he shines in lighter scenes, the intense action scenes might feel a bit overdone.
Sreeleela steals the show with her portrayal of Chitra, bringing laughs despite some illogical moments. Her dance performances stand out, though she takes a backseat in the latter part of the film.
Joju George delivers a convincing negative role, portraying a feared villain caught in the clutches of “heroism.” However, some characters, like Suman’s, lack impact due to weak writing. Comedian Nellore Sudarshan’s role feels underutilized.
Technical Aspects:
Debutante Srikanth opts for a well-trodden story presented in an old-fashioned manner. Aadikeshava might test your patience, but its saving grace is its short runtime. The songs, while okay, can disrupt the movie’s flow. Production values, however, are commendable.
Pros:
- Sreeleela’s Impact
- Some Enjoyable Moments
Cons:
- Predictable Story
- Dated Narrative Style
- Excessive Violence
- Forced Plot Twists
Analysis:
Aadikeshava falls short on various fronts, drowning in clichés. Director Srikanth appears to struggle with originality, resorting to familiar scenes seen in many commercial films. Attempts to create chemistry between the lead pair fall flat. The film, unfortunately, lacks emotional depth, with Boyapati-style action failing to compensate.
The second half is a downhill journey, marked by a tedious flashback and a lackluster plot. The overdose of violence becomes disturbing, turning Aadikeshava into just another forgettable commercial film. Despite some relief from Sreeleela and occasional fun moments, the lackluster content leaves the audience questioning, “Hey Keshava, Hey Madhava.” Even divine intervention might not save this film.