We remember Sagar Chandra as a director who dished out a critically acclaimed film Ayyare . Appatlo Okadundevadu is the story of a cricketer, Railway Raju (Sri Vishnu), who has immense potential but is led into crime and also becomes a victim of circumstances. He is denied a place in the team because his sister and brother-in-law have naxal links. And his past of having killed an extortionist haunts him.
To make matters worse, an encounter specialist Imtiaz (Nara Rohith) is baying for his blood. Imtiaz has an axe to grind; his parents were killed by the naxals. Two factors lead us to watching the film — one, Nara Rohith’s recent choice of subjects and second, Sri Vishnu being known as a reasonably good actor. Sadly, the film fails to deliver on the promise.
The story is about Raju’s life, his passion for a sport, his girlfriend, his family which is eliminated and how he suddenly becomes rich and powerful. On the other hand, we see Imtiaz go downhill from being in control. Charges are filed against him and he is suspended.
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The plot has a periodic rise and fall of characters, but that hardly moves the audience. The first half shows Rohith as the hero and in the second half, it is Sri Vishnu; but by the time the film ends, we couldn’t care less. It is such a farce to show Imtiaz letting Raju go scotfree just because he gets to know the former had once saved his sister. The entry of Rajeev Kanakala doesn’t impact the story.
The story seldom deviates but what is conspicuous is the lack of strong casting. Sri Vishnu who has done noteworthy roles in his earlier films isn’t effective here; he is passive throughout the film. The climax scene where he meets his daughter is a terrible let down. Rohith tests the patience of the viewer through his expressions. Brahmaji is the only who impresses. The female actors are hardly noticeable.
The narration moves at a snail’s pace and songs are totally unnecessary in a subject like this. Though the story appears honest at times, it falls steeply as it progresses.
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Appatlo Okadundevadu
Cast : Nara Rohith, Sri Vishnu
Music : Sai Karthik
Director : Sagar Chandra
Rating : 1.5/5