Devara review and rating: Jr. NTR’s dual performance shines, but does the film deliver?
Introduction:
After six years, Jr. NTR returns to the big screen as a solo lead in Devara, a film directed by Koratala Siva. With their past success in Janatha Garage, there were great hopes for this film. The trailer and teaser generated much excitement, promising intense drama, action, and stunning visuals. With Jr. NTR leading the charge, supported by a talented cast including Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor, fans couldn’t wait to see if the movie met their expectations.
Story:
The plot revolves around the Yerrasamudram and four surrounding towns, with the sea being the lifeline for the local community. Devara (Jr. NTR) is a brave and beloved figure in the village who is willing to sacrifice anything for his people. However, tensions arise with Bhaira (Saif Ali Khan), a local who resents Devara’s power. Bhaira waits for the right moment to challenge Devara’s control.
A critical moment comes when Devara realizes the harm caused by the activities of the people exploiting the sea. Despite his warnings, some villagers, tempted by money, continue to collaborate with Bhaira. Devara distances himself from the village after some tragic events, and the focus shifts to his son, Vara (also Jr. NTR), who is surprisingly timid for being the son of such a brave man. The film unravels why Vara is so hesitant and how the village copes without Devara, leading to a dramatic showdown.
Performances and Technical Aspects:
Jr. NTR shines in a dual role, playing both the fearless Devara and the more reserved Vara. His performance captivates the audience, especially with his intense expressions and strong body language. The film thrives on his ability to switch effortlessly between these two contrasting characters. His dance moves and action sequences are as thrilling as ever.
Saif Ali Khan brings a menacing presence as Bhaira, playing the antagonist with chilling ease. His portrayal of cruelty adds depth to the character. Janhvi Kapoor impresses in her role, adding innocence and glamour. Other supporting actors like Srikanth, Ajay, and Prakash Raj deliver solid performances, adding weight to the narrative.
On the technical front, Anirudh Ravichander’s music enhances the movie’s emotional and dramatic scenes. The songs released before the film gained positive reception, and his background score complements the film’s tone. Cinematographer Ratnavelu’s work stands out, especially during night scenes, capturing the rawness of the village and sea life. However, some tighter editing could have improved the pacing.
Analysis:
At its heart, Devara is a story of power, sacrifice, and redemption. While the storyline has similarities to larger-than-life films like Baahubali, it adds a social element by reflecting the lives of fishermen and the challenges they face. However, the movie stumbles with its length and logic gaps in certain scenes.
The 1980s and 1990s backdrop adds an authentic touch to the narrative, and while the premise is promising, the film doesn’t entirely escape the predictable tropes of action dramas. The slow pacing in some parts and lack of logic in a few key moments could leave some viewers wanting more. Nonetheless, the performances, music, and visuals carry the film to a respectable level.
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Plus Points:
– Jr. NTR’s performance in dual roles
– Powerful background score by Anirudh Ravichander
– Stunning cinematography by Ratnavelu
– High production values
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Minus Points:
– Overlong runtime
– Several illogical scenes that disrupt immersion
– Pacing issues, particularly in the second half
Verdict:
Devara is a treat for Jr. NTR fans, with the actor showcasing his versatility in two distinct roles. The film succeeds in providing gripping moments, thanks to NTR’s stellar performance and the excellent technical team. However, the movie’s length and occasional lapses in logic could have been addressed better. Overall, Devara offers enough drama and action to satisfy viewers, but it might fall short of sky-high expectations for some.
Rating: 2.8/5
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