‘Matka’ review: Gripping period drama
“Matka,” directed by Karuna Kumar, with Varun Tej in a powerful lead role explores the life of a gambler-turned-gangster, delivering an engaging period drama that successfully blends action, emotion, and suspense. The film hits theatres and let’s see how it fares at box-office.
Plot:
The story centers on Vasu (Varun Tej), a Matka gambler who rises through the ranks of the criminal underworld. Over the course of 24 years, he transforms from an ambitious hustler into a formidable gangster. The film’s narrative captures the highs and lows of Vasu’s journey, exploring themes of loyalty, ambition, and betrayal. The presence of Meenakshi Chaudhary and Bollywood sensation Nora Fatehi adds charm and intrigue, enriching the storyline with moments of romance and drama.
Performances:
Varun Tej shines in his role, delivering a nuanced performance that captures Vasu’s complex evolution. Meenakshi Chaudhary impresses with her grace, while Nora Fatehi brings a glamorous touch. The supporting cast, including SaloniAswani and Satyam Rajesh, provide solid performances that complement the lead actors. Each character adds depth to the film, making the story more immersive.
Technicalities:
Director Karuna Kumar’s vision is brought to life with authentic period settings, costumes, and detailed art direction, transporting viewers to the bygone era. GV Prakash’s background score enhances the tension and drama, while Kishore Kumar’s cinematography beautifully captures the vintage essence of Visakhapatnam. The editing keeps the film engaging, with well-paced sequences that maintain interest.
Analysis:
Matka succeeds as a gripping period drama, offering a fresh take on the gangster genre. It takes audiences on a captivating journey into the underworld of Visakhapatnam between 1958 and 1982. The first half of the film is decent and well-crafted. Coming to the second half, it started with an intense action scene and has some emotional moments. The film has twists and turns at the end which hooks audience to their seats.
The film stands out for its strong performances, particularly from Varun Tej, and its rich period detailing. The narrative is engaging, balancing intense moments with emotional depth, making it a compelling watch. On a whole, Matka is a must-watch for fans of period dramas and action thrillers. With its strong lead performance, engaging plot, and impressive technical aspects, the film delivers an entertaining and impactful cinematic experience.
Review By: SUHAS SISTU
