What’s it about?
A bike mechanic named Bangaru Raju (Karthik Ratnam) works in a village close to Narsipatnam that is famous for “Rangu Rallu” (precious stones). There is a fight with Sominayudu one day while Bangaru Raju, his friend Thatha Rao (Satya), and other people are digging for precious stones. The body of Sominayudu is discovered the following day. The locals have told the police that Bangaru Raju threatened to kill Sominayudu the day before after an altercation between the two men.
Bangaru Raju claims he is innocent. The question is how he can solve the murder mystery and apprehend the genuine perpetrator.
Analysis
“Changure Bangaru Raja”, produced by Mass Maharaja Ravi Teja, is an attempt to tell a crime comedy in the vein of the Japanese classic “Rashomon,” but ultimately fails miserably. This type of crime caper only succeeds when interspersed with fantastic comedic scenes. The new director, Satish Varma, doesn’t have any of that skill in his writing.
At the outset, the film makes clear that there are mulitple perspectives on the story being told, but only one is accurate. More than half of the story is told from the perspective of the protagonist, Bangarraju. By the time we learn the truth, we’re tired of the jumbled narration.
Nothing in either of the chapters or points of view is interesting enough to keep us watching. The film’s biggest flaws are its weak writing and lack of humor. Despite Satya’s best efforts, it doesn’t provide any laugh out loud moments.
Karthik Rathnam, who has previously appeared in films such as “C/o Kancharapalem” and “Narappa,” does an adequate job. Despite playing a female constable, Goldie Nissy’s role is unremarkable. Karthik and Goldie’s romantic thread looks stale. Satya’s comedy lacks luster. Ravi Babu does routine job.
Among the technicians, cinematographer’s work passes muster. The director’s poor writing and narrative skills are evident throughout.
Bottom line: Although “Changure Bangaru Raja” is billed as a crime comedy, movie fails on both the thrilling and humor fronts. Has old-style and uninteresting narrative.
Rating: 2.25/5
Movie: Changure Bangaru Raja
Banner: RT Team Works, FrameByFrame Pictures
Cast: Karthik Rathnam, Goldie Nissy, Satya, Gateelu, Ajay, Vasu Inturi and others
Dialogues: Janardhan Pasumarthi
Music: Krishna Saurabh
DoP: Sundar Nc
Editor: Karthik Vunnava
Creative Producers: Swetha Kakarlapudi, Shalini Nambu
Producer: Ravi Teja
Writer & Director: Satish Varma
Release Date: September 15, 2023
