Mumbai: Telugu cinema superstar Mahesh Babu made a comeback on the silver screen after a year-long hiatus with his latest release, ‘Guntur Karam.’ However, the initial buzz and excitement that surrounded the film prior to its release seem to have dwindled, with fans expressing disappointment after watching the movie on its opening day.
Last year saw no releases from Mahesh Babu, making ‘Guntur Karam’ highly anticipated among his fan base. However, the film, directed and written by Trivikram Srinivas, failed to live up to expectations, especially when compared to the actor’s previous collaboration with Srinivas in ‘Khaleja’ (2010). The chemistry that once worked wonders between the duo seemed conspicuously absent in ‘Guntur Karam.’
The movie kicks off with a flashback, narrating the tale of Veera Venkata Raman, whose father Satyam serves time for a murder, and mother Vasundhara enters the political arena after leaving him. The plot unfolds with a complex family dynamic, involving legal battles and political legacies, but fails to deliver emotionally resonant scenes between the characters.
Critics point to the weak narrative and screenplay as the main culprits behind the film’s lackluster reception. Trivikram Srinivas’s focus on Mahesh Babu’s character, at the expense of a more engaging story, is cited as a significant flaw. As the plot progresses, it loses its impact, with a missed opportunity to balance the film’s action scenes with a more robust script.
Mahesh Babu, in the role of Veera Venkata Raman, shines in action sequences, thanks to a well-executed use of a body double. However, his acting prowess falls short in emotional scenes, and the chemistry with Srileela fails to make a lasting impression. Srileela, too, is left with little to do in her role. Ramya Krishnan’s portrayal of Vasundhara receives praise, but some feel she struggles to break free from her iconic ‘Sivagami Devi’ image in ‘Baahubali.’
Despite these criticisms, some fans have come forward with positive feedback, lauding Mahesh Babu’s energetic performance and labeling ‘Guntur Karam’ as a one-man show. While some appreciate the film as a blockbuster, others express satisfaction, claiming their ticket money was well spent, particularly in the first half.
Superb movie , mahesh babu in full flow , kurchi song & nekkelisu golisu song ki theater shake aindi #GunturKaaram https://t.co/UdWZezO6IP
— JANASENA 2024🥛 (@FanOfKalyan14) January 12, 2024
#GunturKaaram first Half Done!
— it's cinema's (@itscinemas) January 11, 2024
One word – BLOCKBUSTER 🔥 #GunturKaram
Super star ⭐ #MaheshBabu𓃵 's Intro ,🔥
Awesome Movie Title card ,🔥
Dum Masala song ,🔥
This is Babu's #Sankranti ,🔥
Full on engagement in the first half! Mahesh Babu on steroids his performance is… pic.twitter.com/8IEw6heL1B
The supporting cast, including Jayaram, Prakash Raj, Jagapathi Babu, Murali Sharma, and Sunil, is acknowledged for their impressive performances, although missed opportunities in direction are noted.
The film’s technical aspects, such as Manoj Paramahamsa’s cinematography and Thaman S’s music, receive mixed reviews. Fans’ reactions vary, showcasing a divided response to Mahesh Babu’s latest venture. As the weekend unfolds, it remains to be seen whether ‘Guntur Karam’ will manage to turn the tide and gain momentum at the box office.