4

Lady oriented films are a rarity these days. Very few movies cater to this segment and after a long gap, we get to see National award winner Priyamani in such a role in the movie Charulatha. She plays a double role in this horror film, which has hit the screens today. Lets see how it is.

Story:

Charu – Latha(Priyamani) are two conjoined twins who are not just physically but emotionally very close to each other as well. They lead a simple and happy life, setting an example for those around them. Because of their passion for music, they head to a school to learn the art of playing the violin. But they are insulted and asked to leave the school. Deciding to fight back against this insult, Charu- Latha put in a lot of efforts and learn to play the violin with proficiency,impressing their teachers. A fellow student Ravi(Skanda) joins their Violin class and falls in love with Charu. Charu also likes Ravi and reciprocates her feelings. But unknown to them, Latha also develops a strong affection for Ravi and mistakenly assumes that he loves her.

When she realises the truth, she becomes enraged and her jealousy takes over. She wants to break the relation at any cost. What plan does Latha make to break up Charu and Ravi ? Is Latha is successful in her revenge? What happens to this triangular love story? That needs to be seen on the big screen.

Plus Points :

Priyamani is a National Award winning actress and she shows why. She steals the show with a superb performance. She has once again proved that given a meaty role, she would do full justice to it. She is exceptional in the role of conjoined twins. She shows varied emotions in two different characters of Charu and Latha. She is excellent in the negative character of Latha, and shows subtle variations as Charu.

Skanda in the role of Ravi does a decent job. The horror factor in the first half is also good, especially the scene where Priyamani is left alone in the house.In some cases, the director has succeeded in scaring the viewers and giving them nice shocks.

Saranya is good as the mother of the conjoined twins.

Minus Points :

Charulatha is a straight remake of a Thai film ‘Alone’, and the director has just altered the script a bit for Indian sensibilities. Screenplay which is a major factor for thrillers, is very confusing. Director brings the flash back episodes in bits and pieces which is sometimes a little unclear.

When the viewers are expecting some twist and suspense in the movie, they are let down completely by predictable scenes. Comedy track is very outdated and boring.

Some characters such as the Swamy ji lacks justification in the film. The crucial twist in the movie is revealed without any excitement and without justification.

Ending is abrupt and leaves some questions unanswered. Movie and concept may not appeal to all sections of people.

Technical Aspects :

Cinematography is a major plus for this film.Cameraman Panner Selvam does a decent job in scaring you with his unique camera angles. Music of the film is just about OK, and only ‘Lali Lali’ song sounds hummable. Background score is decent and is particularly good in scary situations.

Verdict :

One the whole Charulatha is film that could have been much better. Priyamani’s superb performance and some horror scenes are sure plus points. But it is let down by a poor screenplay and confused narration. Dont expect anything great if you do decide to watch the movie.

123telugu Rating : 2.75/5

Reviewed by Ashok Reddy M

(translated by Avad)

Click Here For ‘Charulatha’ Telugu Review