What’s it about?
Subramanyam (Rao Ramesh), who has always yearned to be a government officer, is still unemployed because of his inability to secure a government job. His son Arjun (Ankith Koyya), who recently finished studies, has not yet found employment, while his wife Kala Rani (Indraja) manages the household through her job. Subramanyam relies on his wife’s income.
Following her mother’s passing, Kala Rani makes a month-long pilgrimage to immerse the ashes. Subramanyam unexpectedly receives a message indicating a deposit of Rs. 10 lakh into his account.
At first, both Subramanyam and his son Arjun anticipate a call from the bank or someone requesting them to return the money they accidentally deposited. However, they do not receive any such call or request. Consequently, Subramanyam and his son spend half of the money on various items.
Then, his spouse calls to inform him that his account will receive the insurance payout for her mother’s death. She tells him that he should hold onto the money so they can use it for their upcoming house construction. Before his wife comes back, how will Subramanyam be able to recover the money he has spent? Who deposited Rs. 10 lakh into his account?
Analysis
The Telugu film industry rarely produces films with a character actor as the main protagonist. “Maruthi Nagar Subramanyam” is one such example. Rao Ramesh is the main protagonist of this story, which is based on a relatable and intriguing concept. What happens when you see your bank account grow in size after receiving a deposit from an unexpected source? This is the film’s fundamental premise.
We have observed numerous instances of people transferring money to the wrong individual. The protagonist of “Maruthi Nagar Subramanyam” faces the same predicament. Director Lakshman Karya has expanded on this one-line story, transforming it into a full-fledged feature film with twists and fun moments. Lakshman Karya has skillfully narrated it, with many hilarious moments.
The film not only revolves around Rao Ramesh, but it also devotes equal time to Ankith Koyya, who plays Rao Ramesh’s son, and combines the young man’s love story with Rao Ramesh’s main problem.
The scenes in which Rao Ramesh and Ankith Koyya attempt to identify the sender of the money, only to lavishly spend it after realizing no one has come forward to claim it, have elicited a good deal of laughter. The first half of the film contains considerable fun sequences.
Naturally, the second half must focus on resolving the issue, but this is where the screenplay and narrative stumble. Many sequences in the second half go overboard for the sake of comedy while also defying logic entirely. Comedian Praveen’s thread, in particular, not only dragged out the story but also diminished its overall impact. The climax is fun, but much of the second half is less effective.
In terms of performances, Rao Ramesh steals the show. His dialogue delivery and antics entice the viewer to follow along. As the protagonist, he carries the film on his shoulders. His comedy primarily works. Ankith Koyya as Ramesh’s son is fine. Indraja performs the role of Rao Ramesh’s wife quite well. Ramya Pasupuleti’s character is a complete misfit for this story.
The film’s production and technical values are acceptable. The music should have been better. Lakshman Karya, as a writer and director, shows promise in the first half.
Bottom line: “Maruthi Nagar Subramanyam” is a simple film with a humorous concept. Rao Ramesh’s performance is highly entertaining, and numerous episodes provide a good dose of laughs. But it also becomes repetitive after a certain point. Despite a few minor issues, it makes for a decent and fun watch.
Rating: 2.75/5
Movie: Maruthi Nagar Subramanyam
Cast: Rao Ramesh, Indraja, Ankith Koyya, Ramya Pasupleti, Annapurna, Harsha Vardhan, Ajay, Praveen, and others
Music: Kalyan Nayak
DOP: MN Balreddy
Editor: Bonthala Nageswara Reddy
Art Director: Suresh Bhimagani
Producers: Bujji Rayudu Pentyala
Presented by: Thabitha Sukumar
Written and Direction: Lakshman Karya
Release Date: Aug 23, 2024
