Devara Film Review: Grand Scale, Lackluster Emotion

 

Rating: (2.5/5)

Devara: Emotionless Action Drama

NTR's Devara is an ambitious film with a grand scale, but it ultimately falls short in delivering the emotional depth that viewers crave. As a result, audiences may find themselves feeling disconnected from the on-screen events.

The film’s first half maintains a decent momentum, featuring intense scenes that draw the viewer in. However, the second half takes a nosedive, with predictable twists that diminish the overall impact. Here’s a closer look at the film:

Story Summary:

The narrative begins with Singappa (Prakash Raj) recounting the tale of Devara (NTR) and his band of companions, including Bhairava (Saif Ali Khan) and Rayappa (Srikanth), who turn to smuggling weapons by sea as a means of survival. As Devara grapples with the morality of their actions, he decides to change course. Despite his intentions, Bhairava and the others resist, leading to heightened tensions within the community. Following a failed assassination attempt, Devara vanishes, vowing to return and eliminate anyone who continues their illicit activities. Meanwhile, his son Vara grows up engulfed in fear and uncertainty. The film poses critical questions: Will Devara return? Can Vara rise to defend his family and honor his father's legacy? Will he win the affection of Thanga (Janhvi Kapoor)? The answers unfold throughout the film.

Highlights:

• NTR delivers a dynamic performance as Devara.
• NTR's dual role adds depth to the character.
• Action sequences are well-executed.
• Anirudh’s background score is impressive.
• The first half features intense moments.
• The song "Chuttamalle" is visually captivating.

Drawbacks:

• Simplistic conflict undermines the narrative.
• Flat narrative style lacks engagement.
• Weak villains fail to create tension.
• Dull drama that lacks excitement.
• Unconvincing romantic subplot.
• Some scenes feel overstretched.
• Predictable twists diminish surprise.
• Underwhelming climax lacks impact.

Analysis:

After the disappointment of Acharya, director Koratala Siva attempts a straightforward conflict in Devara. However, the film suffers from a simplistic main issue and a monotonous overall narrative. The weak antagonists, such as Bhairava (Saif Ali Khan) and his group, further reduce the film's impact.

The romantic subplot involving Vara (NTR) and Thanga (Janhvi Kapoor) lacks emotional resonance and fails to engage the audience. Despite a few intense sequences in the first half and some well-choreographed action scenes, Devara struggles to leave a lasting impression. Although the "Chuttamalle" song provides a visually appealing experience, it does not compensate for the film’s overall shortcomings. Janhvi Kapoor does her best with limited material, but her character lacks development. The film opens with Prakash Raj narrating Devara's backstory as officers hunt down gangster Yathi in Ratnagiri. The first half focuses on Devara’s journey, while the second half shifts to Vara and Thanga.

In conclusion, Devara is an average film hindered by pacing issues and drawn-out scenes, with forced emotions and humor that often miss the mark. Nevertheless, NTR's compelling performance and a few well-executed action scenes keep the film somewhat engaging, with "Chuttamalle" emerging as a memorable moment on the big screen.

Bottomline: Devara is an Emotionless Action Drama!