Starring: Jagapathi Babu, Mamta Mohandas, Vimala Raman, Ashish Gandhi, Ganavi Laxman
Director: Ajay Samrat
Producer: Rasamayi Balakishan
Rudrangi, a period action drama directed by Ajay Samrat, featuring Jagapathi Babu, Mamta Mohandas, Vimala Raman, and Ashish Gandhi in key roles, has hit the screens today. Set in the 1940s, the story revolves around the ruthless monarch and womanizer Bheem Rao Deshmukh (Jagapathi Babu) and the fate of the local people in Rudrangi.
The movie starts with Bheem Rao ruling Rudrangi, treating the locals as slaves. Meera Bhai (Vimala Raman) is his wife, but due to his insatiable lust, he marries Jwala Bhai (Mamta Mohandas). However, Bheem Rao is dissatisfied with Jwala Bhai’s tomboyish nature and distances himself from her. One day, he encounters a woman named Rudrangi (Ganavi Laxman) and becomes infatuated with her beauty. However, he learns a shocking fact about Rudrangi that changes the fate of the local people.
Plus Points:
Jagapathi Babu delivers an outstanding performance as Bheem Rao, portraying his ruthless and menacing character with perfection. His mannerisms and acting in negative role are praiseworthy, leaving a lasting impact. Ashish Gandhi also impresses with his sincere performance, showcasing anger and rebellion against Jagapathi Babu. Ganavi Laxman shines in her role, driving the second half of the movie. Vimala Raman performs well in her limited role, while Mamta Mohandas delivers a phenomenal performance as Jwala Bhai, particularly in the interval block.
The first half of the film is engaging and moves at a rapid pace, with several high moments and Jagapathi Babu’s captivating performance.
Minus Points:
Unfortunately, the second half fails to maintain the momentum of the first half. The lack of adrenaline-pumping moments and a dip in pacing disappoint the audience. The movie feels lengthy, and the emotional scenes could have been better presented for a more complete experience. Mamta Mohandas’ role is sidelined in the second half, and the action sequences and climax do not meet expectations.
Verdict:
Rudrangi, a period drama highlighting the issue of oppression, has a decent first half but falls short in the second half, affecting its overall impact. Jagapathi Babu and Ashish Gandhi shine in their respective roles, but the emotional aspects could have been better executed. Mamta Mohandas’ role is underutilized in the second half. Despite its flaws, Rudrangi can be considered an okay watch for this weekend.