Film: Gentleman
Cast: Nani, Nivetha Thomas, Surabhi
Direction: Mohanakrishna Indraganti
Looks like Mohana Krishna Indraganti and Nani have come together yet again after seven years just to give us yet another visual spectacle. A thriller laced with some subtle comedy and blended with romance, Nani couldn’t ask for a better change of role in his career. Indraganti is a people’s director, for he knows the audience has moved on from routine masala entertainers. Casting Nani for the role which is a thin line between a protagonist and antagonist, is so far his best decision. It is a win-win for the Nani and Indarganti combo as they prove their mettle in fine style.
For a change, both the actresses are introduced in one frame. Nivetha (Catherine) and Surabhi (Aishwarya) are co-passengers in a flight coming to India from London. They meet and greet, gel and start sharing stories about their respective boyfriend and fiance. There begins the flashback. To keep the screenplay clean and crisp, Catherine’s love story with Gowtham (Nani) is narrated first and later Aishwarya shares her journey to betrothal with Jai Mullapudi (Nani) is elucidated. As soon the narration of Surabhi aka Aishwarya begins, audience will have their eye brows raised for good. They start wearing their thinking caps to know if Jai and Gowtham are the same or different. Though Jai is shown as a trust worthy businessman, the director subtly hints a dubious side of him.
The suspense quotient reaches another level as soon the screenplay reaches the intermission. In a rare occasion, journalists are soon in good light. The second half is extremely thrilling. No one can afford to blink their eye as every scene is interlinked. Who killed Gowtham and why? Why is Jai killing? All these make the second half.
The pre-climax and post-climax is just spot on. Nani did not shed his spontaneity for this grey role but kept it intact, which enhanced the story line. Indraganti showed the Ashta Chamma’s Nani and Srinivas combination in a completely different style. Nani nailed both the roles. He has shouted out loud to the world that he can play any role flawlessly and effortlessly. If not for Nani and his innate spontaneity, the plot would have lost its richness. Srinivas Avasarla’s new avatar as antagonist is jaw dropping. He masked his humour angle beautifully. Venela Kishore and Satyam Rajesh had a few scenes but managed to provide a few laughs.
Nivetha owns the show. Unlike other Tollywood films, Indraganti has not shown heroines as mere glam dolls. She is strong, emotional, independent and intelligent. Her eyes were enough to emote. She owned every frame.
Surabhi’s role as a jubilant and fun loving girl fits well in the story but her expression lacked the intensity required. Cinematographer should be given his due credit. PG Vinda enhanced the suspense with his camera angles. Though music doesn’t play a major role in this thriller, a few songs are catchy.
Gentleman is sharp which can penetrate minds with intelligent moves in every scene. So it’s going to be a perfect weekend for all the Tollywood lovers. This movie is another game changer in Nani’s career and Nivetha is sure to be flooded with offers in no time.