What Is the Story About?
Srinivas Rao (Naresh) is a physically disabled older man with a daughter and son. Sameer (Ali) is a Dubai return guy who finds the right girl to marry after a long time. Their paths cross when Sameer, a social media freak, takes a pic of Srinivas while asleep in a Metro.
Srinivas Rao is branded a drunk and turns into a viral meme due to a click by Sameer without knowing the actual reason behind his state. What happens when Srinivas Rao decides to counter-file a case on Sameer? How it all ends is the movie’s story.
Performances?
After a long time, comedian Ali is seen playing the main lead in a movie. But, more than that, it is a role that offers him some scope to perform rather than just play a comedic part. It makes all the difference compared to what he has been doing recently.
The role starts off on a routine note, something that Ali can sleepwalk. Still, he puts in a little effort, and it’s visible in the small moments. The real deal starts in the second hour and mainly towards the climax. We see a highly emotional Ali after a long gap. He is fine and gets the necessary emotion correctly for the sequence.
Naresh has been on a roll in the last few years doing impressive versatile character artist work adds another challenging part to his repertoire. He plays a physically challenged guy who can’t speak. The actor brings the right body language necessary for the role and tugs our hearts at the right moments. One is sure to connect with the character’s plight without any doubt.
Analysis
Kiran Sripuram directs Andaru Bagundali Andulo Nenundali. It is a remake of the Malayalam movie Vikkruthi which also had a Tamil remake some time back. The film is based on the theme of viral content and how it affects the people behind it.
The original story is a compelling tale with an identifiable theme. Not only that, it came a few years ago, giving a fresh appeal to the subject. Andaru Bagundali Andulo Nenundali lacks that ‘freshness’ as a few movies in different genres have come with similar themes.
Coming to the movie, the Telugu remake has been modified slightly according to Telugu sensibilities. The changes are an issue in the first half. The comedy has a lot of double entendres, especially concerning Ali’s track. It might be okay within the chosen setup, but it looks a little problematic when considering the larger theme.
There are many filler scenes in the first hour before the story takes off. It tests patience because of the making and the quality, in general, which is lacking, and at a short film level.
The real story kicks in only at around the hour mark. It is no double compelling, and one is instantly drawn towards the plight of Naresh’s Srinivas Rao.
The changes keeping the nativity in mind, which didn’t work in the first half, are slightly better in the second hour. The sequence where Bhadram meets the lawyer is the most prominent example. Instead of coming across as exposition dialogues in the original, the core message is delivered entertainingly in Telugu. The entire sequence is neatly written and executed.
But, there are very few sequences in a similar style, and the director follows the original faithfully to get to the compelling and emotional drama at the end. The ‘emotions’ don’t necessarily work as impactfully as intended, but it is alright nonetheless. It leads to a feel-good emotional end.
Overall, Andaru Bagundali Andulo Nenundali has a relatable theme that has been modified, keeping the Telugu audience in mind. The core theme works, but the comedy and drama fail to engage. If you want to see something different yet identifiable content, try it. But remember, there is a better original.
Other Artists?
Apart from the main leads, the supporting actors don’t have well-developed roles. Still, they have some importance in taking the narrative forward and doing the needed adequately. Bhadram has a significant role compared to others and is reliable as usual. Tanikella Bharani is alright, whereas singer Mano surprises with his presence. Prithvi, in a brief cameo, shines. Pavitra Lokesh is alright playing the wife of Naresh. They show temporary signs of chemistry here. The rest of the actors are alright, with Ali’s mother artist doing the best during the climax.
Music and Other Departments?
Bhaskar Patla and Rakesh provide the music. The songs are basic, considering the overall theme and situation. The background score is better. The cinematography gives a short film appeal. The editing is okay. The writing is fine, delivering the message clearly without any distractions.
Highlights?
Theme
Message
Climax
Drawbacks?
Length
Double Entendre Comedy
Filler Sequences
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, In Parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, But With Reservations
Andaru Bagundali Andulo Nenundali Movie Review by Binged Bureau