Having watched several Marathi, Bengali and Malayalam films, I decided to explore Telegu cinema. That’s how I came across these two terrific films –
Arjun Reddy (2017) – I’ve found a new heartthrob in Vajay Deverakonda who plays the genius but alcoholic Arjun Reddy in this Romantic drama. Arjun, a hot headed final year medical student meets Preethi Shetty (Shalini Pandey), a fresher in medical college and falls head over heals in love with her. After a four year long romance, when Arjun asks Preethi’s father for her hand in marriage, he refuses, citing caste differences and insults him. Preethi is married off to someone else and Arjun veers down a path of self destruction. He is a brilliant surgeon but becomes a high functioning alcoholic, till even his body can’t take the abuse any more. But don’t worry. It’s a happy ending. Arjun and Preethi’s romance while at college is very cute. The movie is long – 3 hours – but Vijay Deverakonda is a feast for the eyes. It’s available on Prime Video and I recommend you to watch it this weekend.
Mahanati (2018) – This is the story of Telegu and Tamil film actress Savitri, cited as one of the first Indian female superstars. Savitri’s rise to fame and superstardom, her love and subsequent marriage to Gemini Ganesan (played wonderfully by my original South Indian heart throb Dulquer Salman) and her tragic end – are all beautifully showcased in this film. The romance of the black and white era too is captured fabulously – kudos to director Nag Ashwin. Keerthi Suresh as Savitri is phenomenal. From the vivacious and bubbly 14 year old (when Savitri entered the world of cinema) to the middle aged, troubled and alcoholic Savitri who faces ruin – Keerthi has played every part flawlessly.
The film also has Vijay Deverakonda and Shalini Pandey (from Arjun Reddy) in supporting roles. Samantha Akkineni is Vani, a journalist who unearths Savitri’s true story and brings to light her large hearted and giving nature and beautiful soul. This film is another must watch Telegu film, also available on Prime Video.
Books, Movies et al by Nandini 