Movie: Pekamedalu
Rating: 2.5/5
Banner: Crazy Ants Productions
Cast: Vinoth Kishan, Anoosha Krishna, Retika Srinivas, Jagan Yogi Raj, Anusha Nuthala, and others.
Music: Smaran Sai
Director of Photography: Haricharan K.
Editor: Srujana Adusumilli, Hamza Ali
Producer: Rakesh Varre
Written and Directed by: Neelagiri Mamilla
Release Date: July 19, 2024
Filmmakers are increasingly relying on social media for publicity. One such successful promotion occurred recently for "Pekamedalu." The film opened in theaters today.
Let's find out if it lives up to the hype.
Story:
Laxman (Vinoth Kishan), a real estate agent, is married to Varalaxmi (Anoosha Krishna) and has a child. He is a day dreamer. He gambles heavily in the hopes of becoming rich. While his wife dreams of opening her own business and works hard to make ends meet. She is the breadwinner of the family.
One day, Lakshman meets a NRI (Rethika Srinivas) and, in an attempt to impress her, introduces himself as an entrepreneur. This encounter turns his life upside down.
Artistes’ Performances:
Vinoth Kishan, known for his portrayal of antagonistic characters in films such as "Gangs of Godavari," takes on the role of the protagonist in this film. His portrayal is authentic.
However, the standout performer is Anoosha Krishna. She convincingly portrays a lower middle-class wife who aspires to build her life responsibly and through hard work. As the story progresses, her character gains more prominence, and she excels in the role.
Rethika Srinivas is a perfect choice as the NRI woman.
Technical Excellence:
The songs are routine, but the background score is adequate. The production values are basic due to the limited budget, and other technical aspects are similarly modest.
Highlights:
Performances of the lead pair
Last half hour
Drawback:
Bland first half
Ordinary technical values
Not entirely gripping narrative
Analysis
"Pekamedalu" refers to the act of building castles using a deck of cards, which are not durable and quickly collapse. The narrative conveys a moral lesson about those who engage in gambling and exhibit irresponsible behavior, illustrating that attempts to improve one's life through gambling will ultimately lead to downfall.
Director Neelagiri Mamilla presents the film's story in a straightforward and uncomplicated manner. The initial portion of the film is entirely dedicated to establishing the story's backdrop, introducing the primary characters, and exploring their behavior, aspirations, and challenges.
As a result, the first half appears to be tedious and repetitive. The sequences involving the primary protagonists have a recurring pattern, and the plot lacks freshness. The screenplay adheres to a predictable style. The film only becomes moderately captivating in the final 30 minutes.
The concluding moments, in which the heroine asserts her dominance and growth, are presented effectively. The message of female empowerment is conveyed well in this portion.
However, this story might be better suited for a short film. For a feature-length film, it is too predictable. While the makers have good intentions and the performances are strong, it lacks the entertainment or engagement value needed for a satisfying watch.
Overall, "Pekamedalu" is a neat attempt with a realistic approach and message, but it lacks the substance and presentation skills to create a truly satisfying viewing experience.
Bottom line: Slumdog Dreamer!
