‘Viraji’ review: A thrilling ride

"Viraji," directed by Adyant Harsha and produced by Mahendra Nath Kundla under the banners of Maha Movies and M3 Media, stars Varun Sandesh in the lead role. The film, which generated considerable buzz with its teaser and trailer, was released on August 2nd amidst high expectations. Let's delve into how "Viraji" fares.

Story

The film revolves around CI Prabhakar (Balagam Jayaram), Dr Sudha (Pramodhini), stand-up comedian Ved (Kushalini), film producer Kodandarama (Kakinada Nani), celebrity astrologist Ramakrishna (Raghu Karumanchi), and photographer Concept Raju (Ravi TejaNannimala), along with four others, who find themselves trapped in an old, dilapidated bungalow on a hill. They soon realize they were lured there under false pretenses and are now locked in what appears to be an abandoned mental asylum. As they attempt to escape, producer Kodandarama and photographer Raju are brutally murdered, prompting the survivors to stay put out of fear. At this point, Andi (Varun Sandesh) arrives. The narrative then explores who planned this elaborate trap, the connection between these characters and the deceased Sagar, and ultimately, who manages to escape the haunted asylum.

Performances

Varun Sandesh shines as Andi, delivering a standout performance that showcases his versatility. His screen presence is fresh and engaging. Balagam Jayaram excels as CI Prabhakar, while Raghu Karumanchi, though appearing briefly as Ramakrishna, adds a touch of humor. The supporting cast, including Pramodhini, Vaiva Raghava, Ravi TejaNannimala, Kakinada Nani, Phani Acharya, Aparna Devi, KushaliniPulupa, and Prasad Behera, all contribute effectively to their roles.

Technicalities

Ebenezer Paul's background score significantly enhances the film, adding depth to key scenes. The cinematography is commendable, capturing the eerie ambiance of the setting. Production values are robust, with the producer ensuring no compromises in the film's execution.

Analysis

"Viraji" cleverly intertwines contemporary societal issues with elements of thriller and suspense. The director maintains intrigue throughout, keeping viewers engaged until the climax. The film's suspense and thriller elements are well-crafted, especially in the second half where unexpected twists keep the audience on edge. The climax, featuring Varun Sandesh, stands out as a highlight. The reason behind the ten characters' presence at the asylum is revealed in an unexpected manner, leaving viewers with a heavy heart. The film's concise runtime works in its favor, ensuring a tightly paced narrative.

On a whole, "Viraji" successfully delivers a gripping thriller experience, with Varun Sandesh leading a talented cast. With its strong technical aspects and engaging plot, the film is a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.