Parakramam (2024) - "Bandi Saroj Kumar One Man Show"



 



Directed by: Bandi Saroj Kumar
Written by: Bandi Saroj Kumar
Starring: Bandi Saroj Kumar, Sruthi Samanvi, Naga Lakshmi
Genres: Drama
Language: Telugu

Plot Overview:

Parakramam tells the story of Lovaraju, a determined man with a singular focus—staging his play, Parakramam, at the prestigious Rabindrabharati in Hyderabad. The film follows his journey as he navigates various challenges, relying on his intelligence and strong will. Lovaraju is portrayed as a man feared by many in his village, though this characterization feels somewhat exaggerated at times.


Performances:

  • Bandi Saroj Kumar: This is undoubtedly a one-man show. Bandi Saroj Kumar dominates the screen from start to finish, giving no room for the rest of the cast to shine. His performance carries a certain charisma and intensity, making him the central focus of the entire film. His dialogue delivery and screen presence elevate the narrative, but his overwhelming presence means that other actors don't have much space to showcase their talent.

  • Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including Sruthi Samanvi and Naga Lakshmi, are just adequate. Their roles feel underdeveloped, perhaps intentionally, as the film revolves almost entirely around the character of Lovaraju.


Technical Aspects:

  • Direction: Bandi Saroj Kumar wears many hats in this production, and while his directorial vision is clear, it’s very much centered on him as a performer. The world-building around Lovaraju is well done, but the film's predictability and pacing issues dampen the impact.

  • Music & BGM: The music is solid, with a good background score that complements the tone of the film. However, the lyrics of the songs fall short, failing to make a lasting impression.

  • Editing & Production: The editing is good, keeping the film moving at a decent pace despite some predictable moments. The production values are also noteworthy, enhancing the film’s visual appeal and helping to create a believable setting.


Strengths:

  • Bandi Saroj Kumar's Performance: His strong screen presence and aura make Parakramam engaging. His multifaceted involvement in the film—as the lead actor, director, and writer—makes it a unique viewing experience.

  • World Building: The film creates a well-constructed world around Lovaraju, particularly in how people react to his presence and the mythos built around his character.


Weaknesses:

  • Predictability: The film's storyline becomes predictable after a certain point, making it less engaging for viewers who expect more twists or depth in the plot.

  • Character Overhype: The fear that the villagers have of Lovaraju feels exaggerated and overhyped, which undermines the believability of the character. His influence on others is not fully justified by the narrative.

  • Pacing: Despite the film’s good production and editing, certain parts of the story feel rushed, while others drag on unnecessarily.


My Personal Take On Cinema:

Parakramam is very much a one-man show, with Bandi Saroj Kumar at the helm of almost every aspect. His performance and presence carry the film, making it an interesting watch for those who appreciate his style. The film is well-suited for a theatrical experience, with solid production values and a captivating lead. However, its predictability, pacing issues, and overhyped portrayal of the central character hold it back from being a truly standout film.

For fans of Bandi Saroj Kumar, this movie is a treat, showcasing his range as an actor, director, and storyteller. While it may not appeal to everyone, it’s still worth a watch for its unique focus and execution.


Rating:

 2.75/5

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