Release date: 9th January 2019
Director: Krish
Music director: M. M. Keeravani
Producer: Balakrishna, Korrapati Ranganatha Sai
Cast : Balakrishna, Vidya Balan
Nandamuri Balakrishna is stepping into the shoes of his father NTR through his biopic. The film's first installment titled NTR - Kathanayakudu is directed by Krish and is releasing across the globe. Vidya Balan, Rana Daggubati, Kalyanram Nandamuri and Sumanth played other crucial roles in the film bankrolled by NBK Films, Vaaraahi Chalana Chitram and Vibri Media. Here is the complete review of NTR - Kathanayakudu:
NTR - Kathanayakudu is a perfect tribute to the legendary actor and the first Superstar of Indian cinema. The film's director Krish picked up the most important moments and people from NTR's life and framed an emotional journey that forms the story of NTR - Kathanayakudu. This installment focusses completely on NTR's journey from a commonman to an undisputed king in Telugu cinema. Balakrishna fits in the bill completely and he transformed himself as per the requirement.
Analysis:
NTR - Kathanayakudu is a perfect cut that has some beautiful moments from NTR's film and personal life. The film narrates a beautiful emotional story of NTR and Basavatarakam. NTR - Kathanayakudu starts with the struggle and challenges faced by NTR before he turned out to be a Telugu Superstar. The first half is flawless though it looks lengthy. A heartbreaking emotional episode before the interval elevates the film well. The first half of NTR - Kathanayakudu looks perfect, engaging and will appeal to every section of audience.
The second half of NTR - Kathanayakudu portrays Balakrishna in a new shade who is turning aged and starts thinking for the people. Some of the songs from NTR's past films are canned and well presented. The technical aspects stand out and makes the film a masterpiece. Some of the episodes make the film look slow but the film has no unwanted scene to be chopped. NTR - Kathanayakudu comes to an end once NTR announces his political entry.
Performances:
Nandamuri Balakrishna delivered out his best for the film. He kept his best efforts to fit in the role of his father. The actor surprised with his transformation and looks apt in the film. Vidya Balan is a real treat and perfect find for the role of Basavatarakam. She spoke with her eyes throughout and her expressive performance will be remembered for sure. All the other actors are well presented on screen to reprise several film personalities.
Technical Aspects:
Krish should be appreciated for forming an efficient team and grab their best in all the departments. He picked up the best aspects from NTR's life and presented with perfection on screen. The screenplay and dialogues added soul for the film. MM Keeravani's work gets standing ovation on screen. The cinematography and editing work looked decent. Balakrishna's first production is rich in production values and the film looks top notch right from the first frame. NTR - Kathanayakudu is one film that is technically brilliant in each and every department.
Verdict:
NTR - Kathanayakudu is a perfect tribute for the legend and iconic personality NTR. Balakrishna and Krish makes this journey a classic which should not be missed.
Overall Review: