Reviewed by: GitacharYa
This summer, the cinema landscape has been dotted with smaller films, yet few have left a lasting impression. The delay of several blockbuster releases has cleared the stage for smaller and mid-sized productions. As the esteemed critic Sikander points out, these smaller films carry the advantage of low expectations, providing them with the freedom to innovate. However, the majority seem to be mimicking the formula of their larger counterparts.
Konchem Hatke Review – Story
Enter a recent film that has broken the mold with its unique promotional approach, albeit somewhat understated. Crafted on a modest budget and featuring a cast of relative unknowns—likely acquaintances connected through social media—the film “Konchem Hatke” lives up to its name, offering a quirky and enjoyable experience. It cleverly pokes fun at pretentious youth who are vocal about their cinematic aspirations while also exploring the dynamics of human relationships—the ease with which we drift apart and the simplicity of rekindling bonds with those we cherish.
At first glance, the film might strike one as boisterous, yet it possesses a sincerity at its core. The story revolves around an arrogant filmmaker determined to create cinema on his own terms, with ‘lust’ as his central theme—although he refrains from revealing this until the unveiling of his movie poster. He casually drops the names of renowned directors from Hollywood and international cinema, all the while disparaging Telugu films. He believes he’s crafting a masterpiece, but in reality, he’s directing a dark lesbian crime thriller, aiming to capitalize on exploitation.
Contrasting this is Priyanka, a fiercely independent woman. Her brother, an ambitious politician, has been duped by a senior, causing him to forfeit his position as Sarpanch. Deceived into registering as a candidate for the ZP election, Priyanka abandons her home upon discovering the ruse.
Meanwhile, Method Actor Madhav yearns for his big break, anticipating the flood of opportunities it would bring. A habitual charmer, his romantic escapades with Amrutha weave a subplot that sheds light on the behavior of film enthusiasts in various situations.
The film’s haughty director quickly alienates his crew, starting with his belittling of assistant director Shruthi, his disdain for Indian cinema, and his exploitative directorial approach. Madhav exits the production after a mere day’s work, having been unjustly reprimanded for supposedly looking at the camera during a take—a claim that goes unchallenged.
As the production falls behind schedule, the producer demands its completion within a day. In the director’s absence, Shruthi is tasked with directing several scenes. This leads to the director’s egotistical remarks and actions, culminating in Shruthi and others abandoning the project. The ensuing events lay the groundwork for the narrative’s unfolding.
Konchem Hatke Review: Highlights
While the narrative of “Konchem Hatke” may seem gravely serious on paper, it’s interspersed with a series of delightful vignettes. The film earnestly addresses themes of familial and romantic bonds, despite these elements receiving less focus compared to the central plot about a conceited young director’s quest to craft a gritty rural crime thriller.
Initially, the story unfolds through seemingly disjointed episodes, but as the movie progresses into its latter half, these pieces coalesce into a cohesive whole. The humor in the dialogue is subtle, eliciting smiles rather than outright laughter. A particularly memorable line delivered by Madhav (a standout performance by Gurucharan Kodur) resonates with the audience due to its natural integration at a critical juncture. Gurucharan Kodur, despite limited screen time, remains in fine form throughout, delivering his lines with a natural ease that captivates the audience.
The clash between Shruthi and the director emerges as a highlight, showcasing the film’s ability to balance drama with levity. While the first act may lag slightly, the second half sees all elements harmoniously align. The script is competently penned, supporting the unfolding drama.
Konchem Hatke: Performances
In terms of acting, Rudra Thippeswamy, as the cinematographer, quietly steals the show, echoing his acclaimed role in the short film “Sannajeevam.” Krishna Manjusha portrays Priyanka with a fitting voice that complements her character’s physicality, whether it’s her own or dubbed.
Ishwarya, in the role of Shruthi, proves to be a force to be reckoned with, delivering a powerful performance even in scenes where she remains in the periphery. When given the spotlight, she commands the screen with undeniable presence. Vicky Sherief as Rami Reddy is fine. Gurucharan’s portrayal, especially during comedic moments, garners significant appreciation and aligns seamlessly with the film’s tone.
The actress playing Amrutha delivers a refreshingly authentic performance, embodying the ‘girl next door’ archetype without any cinematic pretense. The actor portraying Kranthi leaves a lasting impression with his relaxed demeanor and distinctive delivery, particularly in the second half where he dons a Mala (Shiva). The director guy’s obnoxious laughter and demeanor contribute to the film’s full circle, evoking a visceral reaction from the audience—a testament to his immersion in the role.
Konchem Hatke Review: Writing and Direction
Director Avinash Kumar translates his vision onto the screen with precision, though the narrative and screenplay in the initial segments could have been tighter. His cameo in the film’s closing scenes hints at a promising future for his directorial career. Krishna Ravuri’s dialogue writing shines, balancing humor and sincerity effectively. Anil Mallela’s cinematography is noteworthy, adding a visual flair to the film.
Konchem Hatke: Crew
K. M. Radhakrishnan’s musical score, particularly the distinctive director’s theme, adds a quirky touch to the film’s atmosphere. The background music and songs enhance the cinematic experience, with the final track standing out. The editing by Manju is proficient, ensuring a smooth narrative flow.
Konchem Hatke: Conclusion
“Konchem Hatke” perpetuates the trend of smaller films resonating well with audiences due to their high entertainment value. The film is worth watching for its enjoyable content, and while a theatrical viewing isn’t imperative, supporting such creative endeavors can pave the way for more independent filmmakers to distinguish themselves rather than emulating mainstream cinema. It’s a film that promises fun and delivers on that promise.
NaThing Rating: 2.5 out of 4.
Note: As the film delivered mostly on its promise, we overlooked the few negatives.
