A season of performers

With 'Oh Baby' drawing huge critical acclaim and good openings, it seems that Samantha is the new crowd-puller in T-town. Her riveting performance breathes life into the unique story of an old woman transforming into a 24-year-old after a visit to photo studio.

"It is Samantha's movie all the way and her bubbly performance has been the hallmark of the film and attracting crowds in big numbers," says distributor Bharat Bushan, who feels that Samantha has showcased her comic timing in this family drama.

"She shed glam girl image long back and now will become the sought-after diva for performance-oriented roles, already could be discussing one or two movies.

After playing a dejected wife in 'Majili', Samantha showcases her hidden talent-flair for comedy- to expand her brand equity," he adds.

Just a few weeks ago, another glam girl Tapsee essayed the role of a wheel-chaired bound gaming specialist in 'Game Over' and her performance was well-noticed.

"She has been doing great work in Bollywood with films like 'Naam Shabana' and 'Pink' and gave herself a new image with this female-centric movie in Telugu. She may not have delivered a money-spinner, but 'Game Over' has forced filmmakers to take Tapsee more seriously and offer her meaty roles," adds distributor Ramakrishna.

Now, Tamil actress Amala Paul has done one of the boldest roles of her career in 'Aame' to give a fillip to performance-centric movies.

"Amala Paul has triggered lot of hype with her latest bold avatar in 'Aadai' which looks to be a suspense thriller to watch out for since Amala Paul proved herself as a competent actress in K-town and trying to find space in Telugu movies as well," points out distributor Vishnumurthy.

However, the efforts of talented actress Kajal went in vain with a disaster like 'Sita,' and she is shying away from lady-oriented movies.

"It is better Kajal sticks to her glam image, rather than doing roles with grey shades. Kajal did a good job in 'Mr Perfect' and 'Darling' but she is unable to come out of the shadow of superstars to carve a niche for herself," reasons distributor Trinath.

On the other hand, glam girl Tamannaah walked out of 'Raju Gari Gadhi 3' since she knew that she can't pull a film on her own. "Her recent releases like 'Next Enti' and 'Abhinetri 2' crashed at the box office, so she didn't want to risk another women-centric movie. Better she sticks to star-centric movies.

May be, if her next release 'That is 'Mahalakhmi' makes some noise, she will get better chances, otherwise, she will remain a glam girl for good," concludes distributor Srinivas.