What’s it about?
In year 1551, the matriarchal rule of queen Rukhmini Devi (Ritu Varma) begins to end, as her husband Bhavabhooti (Sree Vishnu) feels suffocated by his wife’s domination and plans to end the matriarchy and install patriarchy. His plans succeed, but they also result in a curse on his clan.
In the present day, Bhavabhooti and their successor clans’ inheritance wealth is available for claim. Only a true heir with a genuine lineage from Swaganika Vamsam is eligible to claim this wealth. Four persons receive letters informing them of their Swaganika lineage.
First, Bhavabhooti (Sree Vishnu), a police officer, arrives to assert his claim as the true successor. Then, Anubhooti (Ritu Varma) appears, saying she’s the daughter of a woman from Swaganika Vamsam. Finally, Yayathi (Sree Vishnu) and Vibuthi (Sree Vishnu) arrive. Who is the heir apparent to take the wealth?
Analysis
‘Swag’, directed by Hasith Goli of “Raja Raja Chora” fame, is a satire on gender identity and lineage. Though the lead actor playing four or five different roles is not novel, the story’s basic idea is definitely new for Telugu cinema.
The message about gender discrimination and identity is also solid. The director also took a different approach to drive this message.
To add a fun quotient for the film, he begins the story many centuries ago and reveals how the matriarchy ended. The story then shifts to the present day and concentrates on a few enjoyable episodes. In the later part, the story shifts to deliver a message about gender dynamics. The film’s tone goes from lighthearted to almost solemn after this.
While the message is effective and the idea is interesting, the narration is not at all smooth. Not to mention, the movie moves at a snail’s pace. The film’s length is another problem.
Legendary Kamal Haasan had 10 roles in “Dasavataram,” and here in this film, Sree Vishnu has tried 6 to 7 distinct looks in addition to four roles. The film showcases Sree Vishnu’s versatility. Of all the roles he played in this film, Vibhuti proved to be the most challenging. The role is central to this story, which explores gender identity. In his previous film, Sree Vishnu portrayed a gay character. He takes a step further to play Vibhuti’s role, which is quite daring. He really shines. The other roles he did are passable.
Ritu Varma plays two parts, and she shines in the role of queen Rukhmini Devi. Meera Jasmine takes on a more mature persona. Everybody, from Sunil to Saranya Pradeep to Ravi Babu to Gopa Raju Ramana, has been spot-on in their role.
Director Hasith Goli once again has chosen a different concept, and this time he has also delivered a solid message. But he erred in telling it in a gripping and more engaging manner. The production values are superb.
Bottom line: “Swag” is a different attempt. The story is unique, and the message it drives is good. Moreover, Sree Vishnu portrays four distinct roles, one of which is more daring than the others, adding to its allure. Despite all these merits, it suffers from ‘heavy’ narration and excessive length. The screenplay is also fraught with confusion.
Rating: 2.5/5
Movie: Swag
Cast: Sree Vishnu, Ritu Varma,Meera Jasmine, Daksha Nagarkar, Saranya Pradeep, Sunil, Ravi Babu, Getup Srinu, Gopa Raju Ramana and others
DOP: Vedaraman Sankaran
Music: Vivek Sagar
Editor: Viplav Nyshadam
Art Director: GM Shekar
Stunts: Nandu Master
Co-Producer: Vivek Kuchibotla
Produced by: T.G. Vishwa Prasad
Written and Directed by: Hasith Goli
Release Date: October 4, 2024