Republic Review & Rating {3/5}
Sai Dharam Tej's political drama Republic is one of those films which had been waiting for the reopening of the theatres for a long time. Finally, the movie has hit the screens today. Directed by Deva Katta, this film features Aishwarya Rajesh, Ramya Krishna and Jagapathi Babu in the other prominent roles. Here is the review of it:
Story:
Abhiram(Sai Dharam Tej) is a person who is fed up with the loopholes and corruption in society. Even his father (Jagapathi Babu) is a corrupt government servant. After witnessing all the wrongdoings, Abhiram decides to become an IAS officer. Soon, he becomes a collector and gets appointed in his hometown. There, he locks horns with a cruel politician named Vishaka Vani(Ramya Krishna). The political duel between Abhiram and Vani forms the major crux of the story.
Performances:
It is refreshing to see Sai Dharam Tej in this kind of role. He should be appreciated for choosing this character, even after knowing that it doesn't have a commercial appeal. He looked perfect in the role of an IAS officer and delivered some of the dialogues very well.
Ramya Krishna is another pillar of support for the Republic. Though she comes late on-screen, she sets the fire up with her performance. Her screen presence is unmatchable and she is a treat to watch. Jagapathi Babu delivered his best in a crucial role. Heroine Aishwarya Rajesh got a limited character but she has done her best to make an impact. Rest others have done well.
Technical Aspects:
Deva Katta raised some of the important questions regarding our system and society. These questions need to be raised and the director should be commended for pointing them out. His story is very good but the screenplay failed the proceedings. A lot of scenes feel lengthy and preachy. Deva Katta's approach could have been better.
Mani Sharma's music and background are very average and don't create a huge impact. But the cinematography looks amazing. The visuals are captured very well. The production values are great. The editing could have been better as one feels the film is very lengthy, after watching it.
Review:
Deva Katta took a lot of time to establish the lead character. The real story starts when Sai Dharam Tej becomes an IAS officer. Thus, the first half feels very slow. Things get interesting in the second half. A few scenes between Tej and Ramya Krishna worked really well. But again, the climax is a bit disappointing.
Republic is a story that needs to be told for sure. But the director could have chosen an engaging path in conveying his intentions. On the whole, it is a good attempt but may not appeal to all sections of the audience. However, it is a film that can be watched at least once.
