Thandel is out in theatres. Here is our review of the meticulously made romantic action drama.
Plot:
Raju (Naga Chaitanya) is a fisherman from Srikakulam. His love affair with Satya (Sai Pallavi) is pure and deep. He and his fellow fishermen find themselves accidentally drifting into Pakistani waters during a routine fishing trip off the coast of Gujarat. How they extricate out of the mess and what role Satya has in the release of Raju and Co. forms the crux of the story. Recent political events such as the abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian Parliament come into play.
Analysis:
The story has been written based on the travails of apprehended Indian fisherman who end up facing unspeakable trauma in Pakistani jails. Those who violate territorial waters by crossing over to the Pakistan side of the disputed international maritime boundary line (IMBL) at the Arabian sea off Gujarat coast have been awarded jail terms many times in recent history. Hundreds of Indian fishermen have been locked up in foreign jails. Thandel, directed by Chandoo Mondeti, weaves a love story around the lived realities of these condemned fishermen.
Naga Chaitanya is more emotional than in movies like Majili and Premam. His chemistry with Sai Pallavi is arresting. The actress’ performance never lets in a single artificial moment. No plastic emotions and expressions ever. Chay and Sai Pallavi are the heart and soul of Thandel, followed by Devi Sri Prasad’s music.
Prakash Belawadi, as the Pakistani jailer, is good. Karunakaran, as Satya’s groom-to-be, is seen in many scenes. Babloo Prithiveeraj plays Satya’s father; casting him for the role was a refreshing choice. Mahesh Achanta and Parvateesam, among others, are seen as Raju’s cohorts. Aadukalam Naren, as the eldest one among the fishermen, is apt.
Bujji Thali (a Javed Ali rendition) is soulful. The tune becomes a motif. Namo Namah Shivaya and Hilesso Hilessa are well-staged. Devi Sri Prasad’s BGM elevates the emotional depth of Thandel; the auditory experience is highly satisfying for the most part. Shamdat Sainudeen’s cinematography complements the music.
Key Highlights:
The emotions of a long-distance relationship are tapped superbly.
The use of DSP’s music to elevate the love story is exceptional.
The final 25 minutes of the film are moving.
Geetha Arts complements the writing with solid production values.
Verdict:
Thandel is a deeper emotional love story than its Trailer would have us believe. While the Pakistani jail episodes could have been written better, the film is engaging, overall.
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