Filmy4wap : “Darja” Movie Review: A Disappointing Revenge Drama Despite Strong Performances
Cast:
Anasuya Bharadwaj, Sunil, Aqsa Khan, Shafi, Ravi Paidipati, Shakalaka Shankar, Shammu, Sireesha Nulu, Aamani, Arun Varma
Director: Saleem Malik
Producer: Siva Sankar Paidipati
Music Director: Rap Rock Shakeel
Cinematography: Nixon
Editor: MR Varma
Overview:
Popular television anchor and character artist Anasuya Bharadwaj steps into the role of an antagonist in “Darja,” a film that also features Sunil in a prominent role. With high expectations surrounding its release, the film has hit the screens today. Let’s explore how it fares.
Storyline:
“Darja” centers around Kanaka Maha Laxmi (Anasuya Bharadwaj), a feared criminal who runs an illegal liquor business in Bandar, eliminating anyone who stands in her way. Parallelly, the story introduces two brothers, Ganesh and Ranga (Arun Varma, Shammu), who are leading a peaceful life with their love interests, Pushpa and Geetha (Sireesha Nulu, Aqsa Khan). However, their lives are turned upside down when Ganesh is killed. The situation escalates with the arrival of ACP Siva Shankar Paidipati (Sunil), who is tasked with restoring order. The plot unfolds as we discover who murdered Ganesh, the involvement of Geetha and Pushpa, the connection between Ganesh’s family and Kanaka Maha Laxmi, and Siva Shankar Paidipati’s role in all of this.
Strengths:
Sunil stands out as the film’s most significant asset. Despite his late entry, he delivers a powerful performance as a fierce police officer, excelling in the action sequences and carrying the second half on his shoulders.
Anasuya Bharadwaj shines in her role as the menacing Kanaka Maha Laxmi. Her commanding screen presence, fitting body language, and intense portrayal make her an apt choice for the antagonist. The film’s interval scene is noteworthy, and the second half offers some engaging twists, adding moments of intrigue.
Weaknesses:
The film’s writing is its most significant drawback. The screenplay is muddled and sluggish, particularly in the first half, where multiple subplots create confusion. The core story doesn’t take center stage until the second half, by which time the damage from the lackluster first half is already done.
The romantic subplot involving the two brothers is dull and fails to engage the audience. The film is littered with songs that feel out of place and disrupt the narrative flow. Emotional scenes lack depth and fail to resonate.
Additionally, the film suffers from unnecessary scenes that stretch the runtime, testing the audience’s patience. A tighter edit, trimming 10-15 minutes, could have improved the pacing. Many scenes feel derivative, lacking originality and adding to the film’s overall predictability.
The comedy in the film feels forced and fails to elicit laughs, with the supporting cast not leaving a significant impact.
Technical Aspects:
Rap Rock Shakeel’s music and background score are passable but could have been more effective. The cinematography by Nixon is a redeeming factor, capturing the coastal locations beautifully.
Director Saleem Malik’s execution is a major letdown. His outdated treatment, coupled with a disjointed narrative, results in a tedious viewing experience. The first half, in particular, suffers from a lack of cohesion, with scenes that seem disconnected and irrelevant.
Verdict:
In conclusion, “Darja” fails to leave a lasting impression, coming across as a tired, outdated revenge drama. Despite strong performances from Sunil and Anasuya Bharadwaj, the film is marred by poor writing and direction. It’s a film you can easily skip in favor of better options this weekend.