Today, the silver screen welcomes the release of “Ashtadigbandhanam,” a small-scale movie written and directed by Baba PR. In this review, we delve into the storyline, performances, and technical aspects to help you decide whether it’s worth a watch.
Synopsis:
“Ashtadigbandhanam” revolves around Shankar Goud (Mahesh Ravul), a devoted assistant to MLA Sri Ramulu (Viswender Reddy). Eager to enter politics, Shankar faces a daunting challenge from the MLA, demanding 50 crores for a ticket. To meet this demand, Shankar and his group plan a bank heist, enlisting the help of Gautham (Surya Bharath Chandra), who urgently requires funds for his wife Priya’s (Vishika Kota) medical treatment. The film unfolds the journey of their ambitious plan and addresses pivotal questions about the characters.
Highlights:
The film’s storyline is captivating, filled with twists and turns skillfully incorporated by writer-director Baba PR. Mahesh Ravul impressively portrays Shankar’s villainous character, supported by commendable performances from Ranjith Narayan Kurup as Chakri, a police sub-inspector, and Surya Bharath Chandra as the lead. The narrative keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
Drawbacks:
While the storyline is intriguing, it bears resemblance to some older films. The director’s efforts to captivate the audience are evident, but a tighter screenplay could have elevated the overall experience. Certain casting choices and weak performances of some characters hinder engagement, highlighting the need for improved acting skills. The forgettable songs and routine dialogues also contribute to a less-than-optimal viewing experience.
Technical Review:
Baba PR’s storytelling skills are commendable but could benefit from a more engaging narration. A well-crafted screenplay would have intensified the impact of plot twists, creating a more gripping experience. Contributions from Jackson Vijayan (music) and Babu Kollabathula (cinematography) could have been more captivating to enhance the film’s appeal. Editing by Satya Giduturi leaves room for improvement, as trimming unnecessary portions could have enhanced overall quality.
Verdict:
“Ashtadigbandhanam” presents an intriguing crime drama with room for improvement. While performances by Surya Bharath Chandra, Mahesh Ravul, and Ranjith Narayan Kurup are admirable, casting issues and occasional pacing problems detract from its overall impact. Despite these flaws, the film is worth considering for a weekend watch, as long as expectations are kept in check.