Devaraya

Srikanth's much-awaited movie Devaraya, which was delayed over its controversy over its depiction of Krishnadevaraya as a romantic dancer, has hit the marquee today. Prior to its release, the promos of the film had created a lot of curiosity among the film goers and the movie surely lives up to their expectations. It is good masala entertainer with a historical backdrop.

Devaraya is an epic fantasy film and Srikanth's energetic performance is the main highlight in the movie. Chakri's music, stunning fights, Nani Krishna's script and dialogues, wonderful cinematography, beautiful costumes and artwork are the other attractions of the movie.

This socio-fantasy movie is based on the life and times of Sri Krishnadevaraya. Srikanth has played dual roles like a village guy Dora Babu and Devaraya. Director Nani Krishna has nicely connected a present day incident to the historical backdrop of Krishnadevaraya. The first half of the film has a little story, but it is rich in mass commercial elements like comedy, action and romantic songs. The movie takes a serious mode in the second half and climax is simply superb.

Dora Babu (Srikanth) is a reckless, irresponsible, hedonistic guy in a nondescript village. This colourful village casanova makes his entry with an act of violence. One day, he claims that he is Devaraya. Why does he make this eerie claim? What is Devaraya's connection with Dora Babu? The rest of the movie answers all these questions on screen.

Srikanth has tried to do justice to both roles like Dora Babu and Devaraya - the reincarnation of Krishnadevaraya. He is sure to rock you in comedy, action and dance sequence. His dialogue delivery is also superb. Meenakshi Dixit and Vidisha have filled the glamour slot and will impress you in dance sequences. Jai Prakash Reddy, MS Narayana, Raghu Karumanchi, Ranganath and Sivaji have also done justice to their roles.

Chakri's music and background score are the main highlight in the technical front. His compositions like 'Sri Krishna Devaraya Abhinandanam', 'Guchi Guchi' and 'Baavalu' are good to listen and camerawork and choreography in these songs are commendable. A special mention of costumes and artwork should be made as they look really gorgeous.

Overall, Deveraya is a good masala entertainer with all commercial elements to appeal mass audience. Its reincarnation story is a good attempt by Naveen Krishna. It could be a good timepass film for this weekend.

Producer: Kiran Jakkam Shetty, Nani Krishna

Director: Naveen Krishna

Cast: Srikanth, Meenakshi Dixit, Vidisha, Jai Prakash Reddy, MS Narayana, Raghu Karumanchi, Ranganath and Sivaji

Music: Chakri