Set in Duggada, Narsipatnam, Bangarraju (Karthik Ratnam), a local bike mechanic, lives amidst an obsession over vibrant stones. His clash with Somu Naidu (Raj Tirandasu) spirals into chaos following Somu’s mysterious death. Although arrested, Bangarraju escapes and starts his quest to find the real perpetrator. Intriguing characters like Tatarao (Satya) and Gateelu (Ravi Babu) further weave into the tale. The climax reveals the real murderer’s identity, adding twists to the story.
Strengths:
Satish Varma picks an intriguing storyline. Karthik Ratnam’s commendable act and impeccable dialogues are highlights of the film.
Satya, essaying the role of Ratnam’s ally, garners appreciation for his comic timing, and Ravi Babu’s entrance post-interval infuses a fun element. The ensemble cast delivers notable performances, strengthening the film’s core.
Weaknesses:
While the premise is compelling, its unfolding lacks the required punch. The director struggles to find the right blend in the crime-comedy niche.
Despite showcasing a flair for writing, Varma misses the mark in rendering an engaging screenplay – vital for this genre’s success. The innovative multi-perspective storytelling loses steam due to the narrative’s sluggish tempo.
Character arcs for Goldie Nissy, Nitya Sri, and Ajay could be better. Their roles, though present, don’t contribute much to the main plot, leaving them underutilized. Additionally, the comedy, especially Satya’s potential, remains under-tapped, and the film’s solitary song does little to elevate its charm.
Technical Highlights:
Satish Varma, although showcasing potential as a writer, could have upped the ante in his direction. A tighter screenplay might have boosted the movie’s appeal.
Musically, Krishna Saurabh hits the mark, while cinematography by Sundar NC adds value. Editing by Karthik Vunnava could be sharper, ensuring a more compelling pace. Production aspects, however, are top-notch.
Final Thoughts:
Changure Bangaru Raja showcases Karthik Ratnam’s prowess but falls prey to a dragging narrative and needless sequences. The comedic elements by Satya and Ravi Babu are a plus. For those willing to overlook its shortcomings, it’s a decent one-time watch, but temper your hopes.
Rating: 2.5/5
