‘Music Shop Murthy’ (2024) Review

Directed by: Siva Paladugu

Starring: Ajay Ghosh, Chandini Chowdary, Aamani, Amit Sharma
Genres: Comedy, Drama
Country: India
Language: Telugu

Plot:
Murthy, a passionate music lover, runs a music shop despite its lack of profitability, facing pressure from his family to close it down. His wife is particularly unhappy due to their financial struggles and the responsibility of raising two daughters. Determined to keep his passion alive and increase his income, Murthy decides to learn DJing with the support of Anjana, a younger and knowledgeable DJ. The movie explores Murthy's journey into the world of DJing and the challenges he faces along the way.

Performances:

• Ajay Ghosh: Delivers an outstanding performance, bringing the character of Murthy to life. His portrayal of a man passionately chasing his dream despite the odds is heartfelt and relatable.
• Chandini Chowdary: Supports the narrative well, playing the role of Anjana, who guides Murthy into DJing.
• Aamani: Plays Murthy's wife, adding depth to the domestic conflict with her performance.
• Amit Sharma: Adequate in his role, supporting the main cast effectively.

Technicians:

• Direction: Siva Paladugu does a commendable job in capturing the essence of passion and perseverance. The direction is solid, especially in portraying the emotional journey of the protagonist.
• Background Music: Enhances the narrative, particularly the scenes involving music and DJing.
• Screenplay: Engaging in the first half, setting a strong premise, but loses momentum in the second half due to predictability and melodrama.

Strengths:

• Engaging First Half: The initial setup and character introduction are compelling, capturing the viewer's interest.
• Unique Concept: The idea of an older man learning DJing is refreshing and executed well.
• Performances: Strong performances by the lead actors, particularly Ajay Ghosh.

Weaknesses:

• Second Half: The film loses its pace and becomes predictable, with a blend of drama and melodrama that doesn't mix well.
• Screenplay: The narrative slows down, and the emotional scenes sometimes feel forced.

My Personal Take on the Film:
"Music Shop Murthy" is a heartwarming film that explores the value of passion and the willingness to adapt and learn new skills at any age. The nostalgia associated with old CD shops is beautifully portrayed, evoking memories of a simpler time when buying and enjoying music was a cherished experience. The protagonist's journey of learning DJing at the age of 50 is inspiring and a testament to the idea that it is never too late to pursue one's dreams. Despite its flaws, the film's message and performances make it a worthwhile watch.

Rating: 2.75/5