‘Game Changer’ review: A gripping political drama fuelled by stellar performances

Ram Charan’s much-anticipated collaboration with director Shankar Shanmugam as “Game Changer” has finally hit the theaters, marking Shankar’s debut in Telugu cinema. The film also celebrates producer Dil Raju’s 50th project, adding a layer of significance to its release. With the film riding high on expectations, let’s dive into the review to see if it lives up to the hype.

Story:

Game Changer follows the journey of Ram Nandan IAS (Ram Charan), a newly appointed district collector in Visakhapatnam. Known for his unwavering integrity, Ram is at odds with the corrupt politician Bobbili Mopidevi (SJ Suryah), the son of Chief Minister Sathyamurthy (Srikanth). When Mopidevi’s nefarious activities clash with Ram’s efforts to maintain law and order, he is falsely implicated and suspended. However, in a shocking twist, CM Sathyamurthy proposes Ram as his successor for the Chief Minister’s position, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle between the two. This gripping political thriller is filled with twists, power struggles, and intense confrontations, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Performances:

Ram Charan delivers a powerhouse performance, shining in dual roles. As the righteous and unyielding IAS officer, Ram commands the screen with intensity, especially in his confrontations with SJ Suryah. His portrayal of Appanna, a man with a stutter who dreams of a money-less political system, is heartfelt and sincere, demonstrating his versatility. SJ Suryah, as the ruthless and power-hungry antagonist, complements Ram Charan’s performance with equal prowess. His menacing presence and nuanced expressions elevate the tension in the film, particularly in his dramatic exchanges with Ram Charan. Anjali leaves a strong impact despite her limited screen time, while Kiara Advani, playing Ram Charan’s love interest, does a fine job. Sunil and Jayaram add flavor with their brief yet notable performances, providing comic relief without undermining the film’s serious tone.

Technicalities:

Director Shankar presents a solid political drama, showcasing his storytelling strength, though some scenes could have been more tightly executed. The cinematography by Tirru is top-notch, capturing the grand scale of the political world while maintaining the emotional weight of the story. Thaman’s background score enhances the film’s dramatic moments, infusing energy into the proceedings. The editing, handled by Shameer and Ruben, keeps the film moving at a brisk pace, ensuring the audience remains engaged.

Analysis:

While Game Changer boasts an intriguing plot and powerful performances, the film does falter in certain areas. The emotional depth, particularly in the second half, feels underexplored, and some romantic sequences disrupt the serious tone. Additionally, a few cinematic liberties may not resonate with all viewers. The film's music, especially the much-anticipated "Jaragandi" song, fails to meet the grandeur typically associated with Shankar’s films.

However, despite these shortcomings, Game Changer stands out as a solid political drama with exceptional performances, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.