Movie Prithvi – Review

Bellary mine lords had recently created a new wave in socio-political system of Karnataka by opposing the CM with their money power. Although several forms of media had tried to throw the light on their corruption, it was not up to the mark. Now, director Jacob Verghese has best depicted it onscreen through his movie Prithvi. Hats off to Puneet Rajkumar to join his hands with director in bringing on such a serious issue on screen.

Besides the direction, Jacob Verghese has also penned story and screenplay for the movie Prithvi. It is an action-cum-romantic story. The script is the second hero of the movie. Even though it deals with serious subject, the director has included almost all the commercial elements. The highlights of the movie are Puneet Rajkumar's energetic performance, Manikanth Kadri's music, Manju Mandovi's dialogues, stunts and wonderful narration.

The story revolves around a DC's attempt to stop the corruption in Bellary district and provide infrastructure to the people. The director has managed to bring out a clear picture of corruption of mine lords in Bellary without referring to any real person or event. The movie also brings out the Andhra-Karnataka border issue. With a strong storyline, director deals with satirical picture of social, political and bureaucratic system in this area. The movie starts with a flashback story and the first half is all about Prithvi getting married to Priya and joining the civil service. The second half depicts how he takes action against the mine lords.

Prithvi (Puneet Rajkumar) is an IAS aspirant, who clears the Civil Service exams and becomes a DC. Meanwhile, his father (Shrinivasmurthy) decides to get him married to Priya (Parvathi Menon), whose parents (Ramesh Bhat and Padmaja Rao) are staying in US. Happily married Prithvi joins his duty as the DC of Bellary District. He studies the social problems like drinking water, health care, which are neglected due to the corruption in the area. How he destroys the anti-social elements and solves these issues will be interesting to watch on screen.

Earlier, Puneet Rajkumar has played Porki and Poli (wayward boy) roles, which have made the audience feel that he can not play an officer. Breaking out this trauma, he has played a DC and the role suits him very well. Actions speak louder than words. This statement suits Puneet's actions in the movie. With his mannerisms, he expresses more than what is exprected from his role. Parvathi does not have enough scope in the movie, but she has used the given opportunity to prove her self. Sadhu Kokila's timely comedy is good to watch in between serious sequences. As villain, John Kokin's performace is another treat. Shrinivasmurthy, CR Simha and Avinash have also done justice to their respective role.

Manikath Khadri's music and background score are another highlight of the movie. He has composed six songs of the film and songs like 'Hejjegondu Hejje...', Nenapidu Kanasu...' and 'Ninagende Vishesha Jevana...' are good to listen. Debutant Sathya's camera work is also a plus point. He has done magic with his camera. Especially in song sequences, he has captured some foreign locations beautifully. Manju Mandovi's dialogues are not only powerful, but also evoke laughter here and there.

The title of the movie Prithvi is the name of the hero. But Prithvi means earth and it symbolises the land of Bellary. Although the movie Prithvi is a satire on current political system of Karnataka, it is purely a mass masala movie. And Milana combo Puneet Rajkumar and Parvathi Menon have done another wonderful movie. Don't miss it to watch this weekend.

Producer: Soorappa Babu

Director: jacob Vergeese

Cast: Puneet Rajkumar, Parvathi Menon, Avinash, Sadhu Kokila, Shrinivasmurthy and CR Simha

Music: Manikanth Khadri