Devara: Part 1 marks another high-octane cinematic experience led by the power-packed Jr. NTR, known for his larger-than-life portrayals. Directed by Koratala Siva, this film has all the elements that attract fans of mass entertainers—intense action sequences, grand visuals, and star-studded performances.
Devara: Part 1 is set in a coastal village surrounded by perilous waters, the movie attempts to blend traditional heroism with emotional family dynamics. However, it falls short in certain critical areas, making it a mixed bag of emotions, action, and drama.
Rating: 3 Stars
Language: Hindi, Telugu.
Genre: Action/Thriller
Director: Koratala Siva
Starring: NTR, Jhanvi Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan
Available: In Cinemas
The Good:
- NTR’s Dual-Shaded Performance: Jr. NTR delivers a commanding dual performance as both the father and son. While his portrayal of the fearless, invincible father is packed with charisma, his role as the timid son brings in a contrast that demonstrates his versatile acting chops. The range of emotions he shows between these two characters adds depth to the otherwise simplistic narrative.
- Cinematography and Visual Grandeur: R. Rathnavelu’s cinematographer elevates Devara with stunning landscapes and dynamic action sequences. The wide shots of the coastal village and the turbulent sea create a visually arresting atmosphere, making the film aesthetically impressive. The scale of the production, aided by Sabu Cyril’s set design, is grand, enhancing the epic feel of the movie.
- Anirudh Ravichander’s Background Score: Anirudh’s background score is arguably the soul of the film. It punctuates the intense action and drama with perfectly timed crescendos, making the film’s high-octane moments even more impactful. His music complements the sweeping visuals and aids in keeping the audience engaged through the film’s runtime.
The Bad:
- Weak Storyline and Predictable Plot: Despite the grand scale, Devara: Part 1 suffers from a lackluster and overdone good-vs-evil narrative. The film offers nothing new in terms of storytelling, with a predictable plot that fails to surprise or engage the audience on a deeper level. The lack of originality weakens the emotional impact and diminishes the film’s overall appeal.
- Poor Characterization of the Villain: Saif Ali Khan, who plays the antagonist, is underutilized in the film. His character is not given the necessary depth or screen time to develop into a formidable adversary. Despite his strong presence, the screenplay limits his performance, making the villain feel one-dimensional and ineffective in leaving a lasting impression.
- Disappointing VFX and Underwhelming Action Sequences: While the film aims for grand spectacle, the visual effects, especially in the underwater scenes, fall short. The sequences involving the ocean and action stunts feel underdeveloped, at times even tacky, breaking the immersive experience. Compared to other recent blockbusters like RRR and KGF, the CGI and action choreography in Devara don’t quite hit the mark.
Final Thoughts:
Devara: Part 1 is a film designed for fans of large-scale action and melodrama, with Jr. NTR’s commanding presence and stellar performance being the main attractions. However, the movie suffers from an uninspired plot, poorly fleshed-out characters, and disappointing visual effects. While there are moments of brilliance in the cinematography and background score, the lack of narrative depth could affect the film’s long-term appeal.
If you are a fan of Jr. NTR or love action-packed spectacles, Devara: Part 1 is worth a watch. However, those looking for a gripping story or innovative cinema might leave the theatre wanting more.
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