Rating: 2.75/5
Cast: Priyadarshi, Kavya Kalyanram, Venu, Muralidhar Goud, Jayaram, Roopa, Racha Ravi
Director: Venu
Produced By: Harshith Reddy, Hanshitha Reddy
Release Date: 3rd March 2023
Comedian Venu has turned director with Balagam, a slice-of-life drama set in rural Telangana. The film takes a realistic portrayal of society and how its feuds, dramas, and customs impact the conditions and lead’s life. Let’s see if the film managed to wow the audience.
Story: Balagam is the story of Sayilu (Priyadarshi) a youngster who tries his hand at several business ventures but fails to succeed. He plans to get married for dowry and use that money for the business. But all hell breaks loose when his grandfather Komurayya dies; leading to the engagement cancellation. What Sayilu does next to bring two feuding families and what are his schemes is what the movie follows.
Performances: Priyadarshi shoulders the film entirely and does a great job in this dark comedy film as Sayilu, an irresponsible youth. Kavya Kalayanram is good as the female lead and does her job to perfection. Among the supporting cast, Muralidhar Goud, Roopa, and Jayaram stand out and deliver excellent performances. Venu and Racha Ravi also star prominently in this movie and are good in comedy scenes.
Analysis: Balagam is not a typical movie you would associate with someone like Dil Raju. This film offers various shades of comedy, drama, and social commentary. It provides a deep perspective into human behavior and credit must go to Venu for choosing such a subject as a director. Nativity is the biggest strength of the movie but the movie takes its own sweet time to get off the mark. If the first half was made crispier with a better screenplay, the movie could have created a greater impact
Plus Points:
- Priyadarshi
- Comedy
- Unique concept
- Supporting cast
Minus Points:
- First half narration
- Editing
- Repetitive scenes
Verdict:
Balagam is the most unique attempt from a debutant director in recent times. Apart from Venu, Dil Raju also deserves appreciation for backing this project and providing it with the canvas it needed. The movie has got enough content to appeal to several of us and the slice-of-life drama will definitely stay with you once you exit the theatre.
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