Virupaksha was released in theatres today. Here is our review:
Story
In 1991, a hamlet named Rudravanam falls prey to mysterious happenings after the village temple is claimed to come under a malefic influence. The revered priest orders Ashta Digbandhanam, which roughly means that all movement into and out of the village is restricted until certain rituals are completed.
In this scenario, Surya (Sai Dharam Tej) figures out that the unexplained deaths of innocents are going to be never-ending. Surya's quest for the truth behind the deaths leads to some shocking discoveries. Meanwhile, Surya's love interest Nandini (Samyuktha Menon) is facing existential danger.
Performances
Sai Dharam Tej's performances in films like 'Prati Roju Pandage' and 'Solo Bratuke So Better' were regular. In 'Republic', he was evidently calm and composed. In 'Virupaksha', he goes beyond with more intent. He takes the backseat to make the film acquire the features of a genre outing in the first half.
Samyukta Menon does a role that doesn't require her to keep falling for the hero. If the hero is a 'sir', she is a 'madam'. Sunil (as a powerful man), Brahmaji (as a commoner) and Ajay (as an occult practitioner) take some time to make an impact, but Sai Chand delivers right from his first scene onwards.
Crew
B Ajaneesh Loknath's background score is impeccable in several stretches. The stylized montage song in the second half ensures that the transition from one mood to another is smooth. Shamdat Sainuddin's cinematography reflects the rich production values of SVCC and Sukumar Writings.
The backdrop of the village is utilized well without making it look like a copied version of the Padaghattam village from 'Acharya', for example. In this regard, production designer Sri Nagendra Tangala must be appreciated.
The sound design comes to the fore in the scenes where deaths are involved.
Plus
Sound effects, background score
Build up of tension
Involving the heroine in crucial scenes
Spooky moments
Shocking deaths
The temple backdrop
Minus
Casting of Anchor Shyamala, Rajeev Kanakala.
Pacing issues in the first half (which gets resolved fast).
No innovative hero elevation moments.
Deeper Look
Accidents, dangers, disease, death. Virupaksha has these elements planted all over. The second half is where the bonafide drama takes place. The thrills don't go haywire and they don't confuse the audience.
Director Karthik Dandu, who previously made 'Bham Bholenath', is clearly influenced by Manoj Night Shyamalan's movies. Sukumar's screenplay, even though it is not flawless, enhances his directorial vision.
There are some portions where the film doesn't feel like it is telling a high-stakes story. There is no sense of urgency in the first half. Once the character Bhairava becomes a prominent guy in the whodunit plot, the film puts behind its pacing issues. Some elements like a pandemic (read 'Mahammari') and a rulebook (read 'Sasanala Grantham') could have been elevated in a better way.
Vox Verdict
This mystical thriller comes with appealing twists and turns.
Rating : 3.25
