Romantic Comedy Delights with Familiar Themes
Kushi, the latest offering starring Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha, directed by Shiva Nirvana, hit the screens on September 1st, 2023. This rom-com has garnered significant attention in recent times, thanks to its well-promoted songs and the talented cast.
Plot
The story revolves around Viplav (Vijay Deverakonda), who falls head over heels for Aaradhya (Samantha) upon their first meeting. However, Aaradhya pretends to be a Pakistani Muslim to keep Viplav at bay. Eventually, she reveals her true identity as a member of a conservative Brahmin family. Viplav and Aaradhya decide to marry against their parents’ wishes, leading to unexpected challenges in their married life. The film explores how they navigate these obstacles.
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Highlights
Relatable Relationship Issues: Kushi may not introduce any groundbreaking concepts, but it excels in depicting the common and everyday issues faced by couples. The film approaches these issues with a light-hearted touch, particularly in the second half.
Strong Chemistry: Vijay Deverakonda shines as Viplav, shedding his mass image to deliver a convincing performance. Samantha is delightful as Aaradhya, effortlessly showcasing her acting prowess. Their on-screen chemistry is a highlight, especially in emotional scenes.
Family-Friendly Appeal: The scenes between the lead pair in the latter part of the film are likely to resonate well with family audiences. While not entirely innovative, they are presented convincingly.
Drawbacks
Predictability: Kushi becomes somewhat predictable as the story progresses, diminishing its impact. Knowing what will happen next can make the movie feel underwhelming at times.
Pacing Issues: The film’s length could have been trimmed, particularly in the Kashmir segments. The pacing is slower in the first half, with the film finding its footing just before the interval.
Technical Aspects
Music Magic: Hesham Abdul Wahab’s music stands out as the unsung hero of Kushi. The songs are exceptional and beautifully shot by cinematographer G. Murali, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Production Values: Mythri Movie Makers have maintained high production values, ensuring that the film looks visually appealing.
Director’s Touch
Director Shiva Nirvana, known for delivering relatable films, once again takes on a simple concept that resonates with married individuals. While the film does deal with sensitive issues, it may not offer entirely new insights.
Verdict
Kushi is a likable rom-com, with its strengths shining in the second half. The film captures the essence of family relationships and emotions effectively. Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha’s performances, along with solid support from the rest of the cast, make this film worth watching. However, a shorter runtime and improved pacing in the first half could have elevated its impact. Despite these minor shortcomings, Shiva Nirvana offers a film that will appeal to family audiences, making Kushi a good choice for this weekend’s watch.
