‘Nindha’ review: A decent comeback from Varun Sandesh
"Nindha," directed by Rajesh Jagannadham, marks Varun Sandesh’s bold return to cinema after a sabbatical, showcasing him in a new light within the intense realm of crime drama. This film departs from his usual romantic genre, presenting an intriguing narrative set to thrill audiences. Now, as the film hits theatres, let’s see how it fares at box-office.
Story:
The film revolves around Vivek (Varun Sandesh), a young man working for the NHRC in Delhi, who is on a mission to prove the innocence of a death row inmate. His quest begins when his father, retired judge Satyanand (Tanikella Bharani), hands him a mysterious case. Vivek's investigation takes him through a web of deceit and danger, involving key characters like Bajaraju (Charapathi Sekhar), his daughter Sudha (Annie), Dr. Chandrasekhar (Surya), and several others. The story intensifies with the abduction of six suspects in the Kandrakota Murder case, pushing Vivek to uncover the truth before the execution date. The narrative is a blend of suspense and emotion, culminating in a race against time to ensure justice.
Performances:
Varun Sandesh steps out of his comfort zone, delivering a performance that, while occasionally stiff, showcases his growth as an actor. His portrayal of Vivek is marked by a genuine emotional range. Tanikella Bharani’s brief but impactful role sets a strong tone for the film. Annie excels as Sudha, particularly shining in the climax. Mime Madhu and Siddharth Gollapudi keep viewers engaged with their compelling performances. The supporting cast, including Bhadram and Chatrapathi Sekhar, effectively bolster the narrative with their strong portrayals.
Technicalities:
Rajesh Jagannadham's direction impresses, especially for a debut, handling the complex plot with finesse. Ramiz Navneeth’s cinematography captures the rural settings vividly, while Anil Kumar P’s editing, though needing refinement, maintains the film's pace. Santu Omkar’s music, however, serves more as a distraction than a complement, with situational songs interrupting the narrative flow. Despite this, the film's production values add to its overall appeal.
Analysis:
"Nindha" stands out for its intriguing concept and the earnest performances of its cast. The film starts strong, drawing the audience into its murder mystery. However, the story falls into predictable patterns, and some illogical scenes undermine its potential. The second half’s slower pace, due to a romantic subplot, affects the overall momentum. Nevertheless, the suspense is maintained, and the climax, though familiar, delivers a satisfying conclusion. Director Rajesh Jagannadham’s handling of this experimental subject is commendable, making "Nindha" a notable debut.
On a whole, "Nindha" is a commendable crime drama that highlights Varun Sandesh's versatility and Rajesh Jagannadham's potential as a director. While the film has its flaws, it remains an engaging watch with its compelling storyline and solid performances. It’s a decent addition to the genre, offering a mix of suspense, emotion, and a glimpse into the darker facets of justice.
