Review: “Sindhooram” – A Socio-Political Drama with Promise
Featuring: Brigida Saga, Dharma, Siva Balaji, Adduri Ravi Varma, Dayanand Reddy, Keshav Deepak
Directed by: Shyam Tummalapalli
Produced by: Praveen Reddy Janga
Music by: Gowra Hari
Cinematography: Kesav
Editing: Jesvin Prabu
Tamil actress Brigida Saga, known for her role as Pavi Teacher, along with debutant actor Dharma, graces the Telugu screens in the film “Sindhooram” which premiered today. Let’s delve into the storyline and its cinematic treatment.
Plot Summary:
Set in Sriramagiri village, Khammam, “Sindhooram” revolves around Ravi (Dharma), a humble tea seller, and his classmate Sirisha (Brigida Saga), who rises to become the MRO, resolving numerous village issues. Amidst political turmoil led by Singanna (Siva Balaji) against village head Eeshwar Reddy, Sirisha endeavors to quell Naxalism in the region. The film unfolds the intertwining destinies of Ravi, Singanna, and Sirisha, unraveling their allegiances and motivations.
Highlights:
“Sindhooram” distinguishes itself by delving into the contemporary nuances of Naxalism, offering a fresh perspective on the socio-political landscape.
Director Shyam Tummalapalli’s choice of subject for his debut venture is commendable, and his narrative finesse is evident throughout the film. Brigida Saga delivers a nuanced portrayal of Sirisha, showcasing her acting prowess.
Despite being a newcomer, Dharma impresses with his performance, particularly in the emotionally charged climax, displaying a range of sentiments convincingly.
The chemistry between Ravi and Sirisha is well-captured, accentuated by commendable cinematography and background score, enriching their on-screen dynamics.
Criticisms:
While the film ambitiously attempts to dissect the evolution of Naxal movements, the execution falls short due to a sluggish first half and an excessive focus on irrelevant subplots.
Certain characters, like Singanna, lack the depth demanded by their pivotal roles, underscoring the need for stronger casting choices.
Superfluous characters, such as Josh Ravi, serve little purpose in advancing the plot, contributing to the film’s pacing issues.
Technical Analysis:
Director Shyam Tummalapalli demonstrates promise in handling the socio-political narrative, though a more judicious selection of actors could have enhanced the film’s impact.
The contributions of DOP Kesav and music director Gowra Hari are noteworthy, enriching the cinematic experience with their visual and auditory finesse.
Trimming unnecessary scenes in the first half would have mitigated the pacing issues and elevated the overall viewing experience.
Verdict:
“Sindhooram” offers a thought-provoking exploration of Naxalism within a socio-political framework, bolstered by commendable performances from its leads. While hindered by pacing issues and underdeveloped characters, the film warrants attention for its thematic relevance. Fans of serious socio-political dramas may find “Sindhooram” a worthwhile watch, albeit with tempered expectations.