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Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, the latest Telugu film starring Venkatesh Daggubati and directed by Anil Ravipudi, has finally hit the screens, marking their third collaboration. The movie, released on January 14th, 2025, garnered significant pre-release buzz, riding on the popularity of both the lead actor and the director known for their successful comedic family entertainers. The film follows the narrative of Yadagiri Damodhar Raju (Venkatesh), a former cop now enjoying a peaceful life with his family, who is unexpectedly drawn back into action when his ex-girlfriend, Meenakshi (Meenakshi Chaudhary), a police officer, needs his help in rescuing a kidnapped tech entrepreneur. The plot, while simple and predictable as noted in several reviews, forms the backbone of a film that prioritizes humor, family dynamics, and feel-good moments. The success of the film largely rests on the shoulders of its lead cast and their interactions. The movie successfully leverages the comedic talents of Venkatesh, showcasing his range, and the chemistry shared with both Meenakshi Chaudhary and Aishwarya Rajesh adds layers of charm and relatability to the narrative.
Venkatesh's performance is widely praised, with critics highlighting his ability to seamlessly transition between comedic timing and emotional depth. His portrayal of a loving husband and father is considered one of the movie's strong points, adding a heartwarming dimension to the otherwise action-oriented plot. Aishwarya Rajesh, in the role of Venky's wife, is also lauded for her relatable portrayal of a married woman, bringing a refreshing perspective to her Tollywood roles. Meenakshi Chaudhary’s performance is described as lively and confident, complementing Venkatesh's charisma on-screen. The supporting cast, including Naresh, VTV Ganesh, Upendra Limaye, and Sai Kumar, provide additional comedic relief, further enhancing the light-hearted tone. The humor is consistently well-received, maintaining a playful and light atmosphere throughout the film. The family moments and relatable conflicts between the central trio contribute to the overall feel-good nature of the movie, appealing to a broad audience.
Despite its positive aspects, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam isn't without its drawbacks. The storyline is criticized for being simple and predictable, lacking the significant twists and turns that might engage viewers accustomed to more complex narratives. While the comedic elements are widely appreciated, some critics suggest the movie could have benefitted from more memorable or standout moments, particularly for Venkatesh's fans who may be expecting a more significant showcase of his comedic talents. The large ensemble cast also seems underutilized, with several characters lacking sufficient screen time or character development, leading to an uneven distribution of focus and attention. The second half of the film, according to certain reviews, is perceived as slightly dragged out, with some scenes requiring viewers to momentarily suspend disbelief to maintain enjoyment of the film. These minor shortcomings, while present, are largely overshadowed by the overall positive reception of the movie's light-hearted tone, charming performances, and strong supporting cast.
Technically, the film appears to be well-executed. Anil Ravipudi's direction is described as clean and effective in delivering a family entertainer. The movie's music, composed by Bheems Ceciroleo, is a significant asset, with the songs already proving popular. Sameer Reddy's cinematography effectively captures the essence of the story, and the editing by Tammiraju is praised for its crispness. The production values are considered high, contributing to a visually appealing cinematic experience. Overall, the technical aspects of the film work seamlessly to support the narrative and enhance the audience's enjoyment. The movie's overall success rests on its ability to deliver a fun, lighthearted, and thoroughly entertaining experience. While not without minor flaws, Sankranthiki Vasthunnam delivers on its promise of being a family-friendly film that's perfect for a Sankranthi celebration. The film excels in its comedic timing, strong performances, and feel-good nature, making it a worthwhile watch for those looking for lighthearted entertainment.
The 3.25/5 rating from 123telugu.com serves as a fair reflection of the movie's overall merit. While not reaching the highest accolades, it successfully establishes itself as a pleasant and engaging family entertainer. This balanced review acknowledges the strengths of the film in terms of acting, humor, and technical aspects, while also recognizing its limitations in terms of a predictable storyline and a slightly uneven pacing. Ultimately, the movie's positive reception highlights its success in fulfilling the expectations set for a lighthearted Sankranthi release. The ability to effectively engage its target audience with a blend of humor, relatable characters, and impressive performances ensures the film achieves its goal of providing enjoyable entertainment for families during the festival period.