Review : Mr. Bachchan – Works to an extent

The dynamic duo, Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja and Harish Shankar, have reunited for Mr. Bachchan, which hit theaters today amidst high expectations. Without further ado, dive into our review to see how it fares.

Story:

Anand, aka Bachchan (Ravi Teja), is a straight-laced income tax officer suspended due to his unwavering honesty. Upon returning to his hometown, he falls in love with Jikki (Bhagyashree Borse), who soon reciprocates his feelings. Just as things start looking up, Bachchan is reinstated and tasked with raiding the home of a powerful local figure, Mutyam Jaggaiah (Jagapathi Babu). What follows is a daring mission that tests Bachchan’s resolve, revealing unexpected challenges and twists.

Positive Points:

When Mr. Bachchan was announced, many doubted the idea of remaking the hit film Raid. However, Harish Shankar manages to surprise by keeping the essence of the original while tailoring the story to suit Telugu audiences.

Ravi Teja shines in a role that seems custom-made for him. As the determined IT officer and the romantic lead with a deep admiration for legends like Kishore Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan, he delivers a performance full of energy and charm. His on-screen chemistry with Bhagyashree Borse is delightful and adds a refreshing touch to the narrative.

Bhagyashree Borse is a standout in her role, bringing both glamour and emotion to the screen. Her performance is bound to catch the attention of many in Tollywood. Jagapathi Babu, too, leaves an impression, particularly in his intense exchanges with Ravi Teja. The rest of the cast did their part well.

The film’s comedy, led by Satya, hits the mark, and Mickey J Meyer’s soundtrack adds vibrancy, particularly in the lively and massy songs. The use of retro music during romantic scenes offers a nostalgic feel that fans of Amitabh Bachchan and Kishore Kumar will appreciate.

Minus Points:

Harish Shankar successfully blends elements like romance, action, comedy, and punchy dialogues to entertain mass audiences, particularly in the first half. However, the second half loses its way, straying from the main plot and introducing unnecessary comedy that dilutes the film’s impact. The absence of the same level of intensity and mass appeal that was present in the first half is noticeable.

While Bhagyashree Borse excels in her role, she is underutilised in the second half, with limited screen time that doesn’t do justice to her character. Jagapathi Babu’s character, initially portrayed as a formidable antagonist, fades in the second half, losing the impact built up earlier in the film.

The climax, unfortunately, feels outdated and implausible, even within the mass-entertainment genre. A more meaningful approach to the climax fight could have enhanced the film’s appeal.

Technical Aspects:

As a director, Harish Shankar does well in balancing mass elements with comedy and romance in the first half, but the second half’s pacing and coherence could have been stronger. As a writer, he could have focused more on refining the second half, but when it comes to crafting punch dialogues, he excels.

Cinematographer Ayananka Bose captures the film beautifully, especially during the song sequences. Editor Ujwal Kulkarni could have tightened the second half by cutting unnecessary scenes. Mickey J Meyer’s music stands out, offering a mix of energetic tracks that elevate the film. The production values are solid, and the art department’s efforts to create a retro vibe, particularly in the first half, are commendable.

Verdict:

On the whole, Mr. Bachchan has its moments but caters primarily to mass audiences. Ravi Teja and Jagapathi Babu deliver decent performances, and Bhagyashri Bose adds a touch of glamour, but the second half falls short due to unnecessary comedy and pacing issues. If you’re a fan of Raid, the original movie that inspired Mr. Bachchan, it’s best to temper your expectations.

123telugu.com Rating: 2.75/5

Reviewed by 123telugu Team

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