Movie Name: Sankranthiki Vasthunam
Director: Anil Ravipudi

Cast: Venkatesh Daggubati, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Aishwarya Rajesh, Upendra Limaye, Sai Kumar, Naresh, VTV Ganesh, Srinivas Avasarala and others

Producers: Dil Raju, Shirish
Music Director: Bheems Ceciroleo
Cinematographer: Sameer Reddy
Editor: Tammiraju

Release Date: January 14, 2025

iQlik Movies Rating: 3/5

Anil Ravipudi brings another delightful family entertainer to the big screen with Sankranthiki Vasthunnam. Featuring Venkatesh in a role that blends comedy, emotion, and action, the film strikes a chord with its lighthearted and feel-good narrative. The film was released today. Check the review here.

Story:

Satya Akella (Avasarala Srinivas), a prominent tech entrepreneur, is kidnapped soon after his return to Telangana from the United States. The Chief Minister (Naresh) tasks Officer Meenakshi (Meenakshi Chaudhary) with handling the case. She seeks help from her ex-boyfriend and former cop, Yadagiri Damodhar Raju (Venkatesh), who is married to Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh). The story revolves around Raju's return to action, unraveling the mystery behind the kidnapping. Why did Raju agree to help Meenakshi? Will they solve the case? What happens in the end? Forms the story of the movie.

Performances:

Venkatesh's effortless charm shines in this role, perfectly blending comedy, emotion, and heroism. His interactions with the cast, particularly Aishwarya Rajesh and Meenakshi Chaudhary, highlight his impeccable comic timing and natural screen presence. Aishwarya delivers a heartfelt performance. Her portrayal of a relatable, innocent, and strong-willed wife adds depth to the family dynamics. Meenakshi impresses as a confident and witty cop. Her camaraderie with Venkatesh and Aishwarya Rajesh is enjoyable, particularly in lighter moments. Naresh, Sai Kumar, VTV Ganesh, Upendra Limaye, and child artists did justice for their roles.

Technical Aspects:

Bheems Ceciroleo's songs are catchy and seamlessly integrated into the narrative. The background score complements the film's tone and enhances key moments. Sameer Reddy captures the vibrant and festive essence of the story while the visuals aptly support the comedic and emotional beats. Tammiraju ensures a crisp pace, though some sequences in the second half feel slightly stretched. The film boasts high-quality production, reflecting the festive spirit and family-friendly appeal.

Review:

Sankranthiki Vasthunnam is a quintessential Venkatesh family entertainer, packed with humor, emotions, and festive vibes. While the story lacks novelty and some characters are underexplored, the film's charm lies in its feel-good nature, strong performances, and comedic moments. Perfect for a festive family outing, it's a lighthearted watch that leaves you smiling. Anil Ravipudi crafts a clean, family-oriented entertainer, balancing humor with emotional depth. While the storyline is predictable, the humor and family moments keep the audience engaged. However, a tighter screenplay and some surprises in the plot could have enhanced the overall impact.

Plus Points:

Performances
Venky's chemistry with leading ladies
Well-executed humor
Music and BGM

Minus Points:

Predictable storyline with no major twists.
Some logical inconsistencies

Final Verdict: Pakka Pandaga Cinema!