Amidst the myriad of high-budget spectacles, ‘1134’ emerges as a humble yet gripping addition to the Telugu film industry, boasting fresh faces and an unconventional narrative. Released on January 5th, this heist drama sets out to captivate audiences with its enigmatic storyline and a band of relatively new talents.
The tale kicks off with an unidentified figure abducting three young men—Laxman (Phani Sharma), Eric (Gangadhar Reddy), and Harsh (Phani Bhargav)—tossing them into a police guest house in the outskirts of their village. However, rather than succumb to their situation, the trio chooses to reveal their own tales.
Eric’s expertise lies in hacking CCTV cameras near ATMs, while Lakshman’s forte involves snatching luggage near bus stops. On the other hand, Harsh specializes in extracting money from ATMs. Interestingly, these seemingly unconnected individuals unknowingly work for the same employer, prompting the mysterious kidnapper to aim at eliminating them.
Their escape from captivity unites them in a quest to unveil the identity behind their abduction. As they investigate, the cryptic number ‘1134’ surfaces, becoming pivotal in unraveling the truth and apprehending the perpetrator.
The film’s initial phase meticulously sets the stage, unveiling the motives of the three men and their struggle to break free. While the first half leisurely unfolds, the narrative picks up speed in the latter half, heightening the intrigue.
The protagonists’ pursuit of justice and their connection to the enigmatic number infuse an enthralling dimension into the storyline. ‘1134’ takes an unexpected turn towards the climax, offering an intriguing twist that keeps the audience hooked.
Director Ssarath showcases a unique perspective, steering away from the typical tropes seen in Telugu cinema. The absence of female characters is noticeable, yet the performances by the cast compensate for this void. The newcomers, Krishna Madupu, Gangadhar Reddy, Phani Bhargav, and Phani Sharma, deliver commendable portrayals, effectively blending action, emotion, and humor.
While the music by Murali Karthikeya impresses, there’s room for enhancement. The cinematography by Najeeb Shaik and Jitender Talakanti is commendable, enhancing the film’s visual appeal.
Despite a few non-sync and repetitive sequences, ‘1134’ manages to grip the audience with its amalgamation of crime analysis, mystery, and suspense. The director adeptly balances multiple genres, ensuring a focused narrative without straying from the central plot.
‘1134’ may have room for refinement, especially in carving out heist dramas with multifaceted elements. Nevertheless, it stands as a testament to the director’s prowess in extracting convincing performances from a fresh ensemble cast.
In conclusion, ‘1134’ may not be flawless, but it leaves an impact, relying on its performers to carry its engaging narrative.
