Some noise, some sense!
'Mem Famous' comes from the Chai Bisket Films stable. The banner co-produced this year's hit 'Writer Padmabhushan' with Lahari Films as its maiden venture. The film's surging popularity is explained by its premieres' successful run in the Telugu States. In this review, we delve into the essence of 'Mem Famous' and explore whether it manages to capture the contemporary humor that resonates with today's cinephiles, particularly the younger generation. Does the film boast a compelling storyline, or does it primarily rely on commercial elements? Let's delve deeper to discover the answers.
Plot:
The story is set in a Telangana village. Mai and his two friends are good for nothing. They have never failed at anything because they have never tried anything. Realization dawns upon them when they are insulted into doing something worthwhile.
This is when they pool resources and start a small business venture. But fate has other plans. By the time it is interval, the trio has faced their biggest crisis in life. The rest of the film is about how they rebuild their dreams and make a fresh attempt - this time to become famous for real. What is their idea to strike gold? Will Mai and his other friend with a girlfriend have a happy ending to their love story?
Performances:
While the story involves three friends, it is Sumanth Prabhas who becomes the sole protagonist; he vibes with the film with ease. Mani Aegurla and Mourya Chowdary, on the other hand, portray supportive characters to the lead, content with eliciting low-key emotion rather than having substantial roles with more depth.
Saarya breaks away from the conventional mold of a typical heroine. She embraces her character's light-heartedness and doesn't strive for glamour. Siri Raasi, known for her previous work in short films, is good in an extended cameo. Anji Mama Milkuri is praiseworthy. Kiran Macha as Jinka Venu and Shiva Nandhan as Lipstick Spoiler are good, with the latter drawing laughs. Muralidhar Goud is routine.
Technical Departments:
Composer Kalyan Nayak finds delight in the unpretentious realm of the film and the uncomplicated mannerisms of its characters. Even when choosing the familiar singer Rahul Sipligunj, the intention is to maintain an authentically uplifting tone. Loudness has no place here, as the focus remains on organic storytelling.
Shyam Dupati's cinematography and Srujana Adusumilli's editing are proficient but do not particularly stand out. The talented technicians comprehend their roles and deliver accordingly, meeting the expectations set for them.
Hits:
The authentic rural nativity.
The arc of the second half.
The silly fun moments that don't look unnatural or forced.
The film's ability to maintain a fun quotient despite a serious plot turn after the interval.
The uncomplicated drama.
Misses:
Not-so-novel characterizations.
The lack of a real conflict in the love story.
The simplistic climax.
The over-reliance on some cliched tropes in the first half.
Vox Verdict:
'Mem Famous' is about three silly men finding purpose in life. Although the ideas on the plate are not outstanding, the humour quotient helps the film sail through. Don't expect a story.
Rating: 2.75
