Starring: Gourish Yeleti, Roshni Sahota, Prachi Thaker, Devi Prasad & Others Director: Deepak Kolipaka
Producer: Navya Mahesh M, Ranjith Kumar Kodali
Music Director: Neelesh Mandalapu
Deepak Kolipaka’s directorial debut, “O Kala,” featuring newcomers Gourish Yeleti and Roshni Sahota in the lead roles, is now available for streaming on Disney Plus Hotstar. Being a small-budget film, let’s take a closer look and see how it fares.
Story: The movie revolves around Harika (played by Roshhni Sahota), an MBA marketing graduate who starts an advertising company with the aim of providing employment opportunities to others. However, the company runs into financial troubles, and Harika reaches a point of despair where she decides to end her life. It is at this critical juncture that she meets Harsha (played by Gourish Yeleti), a stranger who unexpectedly alters the course of her life. The rest of the film delves into the identity of Harsha and the turn of events that take place as a result of his intervention.
Plus Points: The success of O Kala heavily relied on the performances of the lead actors, and Roshni Sahota and Gourish Yeleti didn’t disappoint. Despite being their debut movie, both actors delivered a commendable performance that elevated the film’s impact.
Roshni Sahota, a well-known Hindi TV actress, stunned the Telugu audience with her expressive portrayal of Harika. From her very first scene, Roshni exuded confidence and conviction in her dialogue delivery and body language. She has a bright future in the Telugu industry if she continues to choose good scripts.
Gourish Yeleti played his role with subtlety and grace, not going over the top despite the script’s demands. The director smartly conveyed a relevant social message to today’s youth through a sensible and impactful drama in the second half. Supporting actors Prachi Thaker and Devi Prasad also contributed positively to the film.
Minus Points:The movie heavily relies on the dialogues exchanged between the lead characters, which may not appeal to all viewers. Some might find it monotonous and unengaging.
The male lead’s flashback episode is extended and lacks engagement, and some of the comedic scenes feel forced and unnecessary.
Although the director conveyed the intended message, the first hour of the film could have been better executed. More impactful scenes between the lead characters could have elevated the film, and a shorter runtime would have made it more concise.
Verdict: Overall, O Kala is a drama film that moves at a slow pace but conveys an important message to society. Roshni and Gourish make impressive debuts and the director manages to handle some aspects of the film well. However, the film’s presentation style and slow narration may not appeal to everyone, making it an average watch.
Rating:2.5/5