After a five-year gap since Don’t Tell Anyone and an eight-year gap since Majnu, Rakesh Vare and Virinchi Varma are coming together for a film titled Jithender Reddy. Produced by Virinchi Varma’s younger brother, Ravinder Reddy, the film is based on the life of Jithender Reddy, a youth leader from Jagtial. Originally scheduled for release in May, the film’s release was delayed because the censor clearance was not obtained due to the election code. The film is out now and let’s review it here.
Jithender Reddy Story: Jithender Reddy (Rakesh Vare) is a young man who grew up with ABVP ideology since childhood. He wants to confront the injustices committed by the Naxalites. He develops leadership qualities as a student, not only facing the ruling party but also challenging powerful figures. What difficulties did he face along the way? How did Jithender Reddy’s life come to an end? Who were the root causes behind it? The answers to these questions are explored in the film Jithender Reddy.
Performances: Rakesh played the real-life character of Jithender Reddy, and this film marks a significant step up for him as an actor. His portrayal of a student leader, including his body language and the subtle changes in his leadership style, was handled with great care. The film brings well-deserved recognition to Rakesh as an actor.
Subbaraju was given a substantial role and delivered an impressive performance in a meaningful character. Ravi Prakash also played a role that remains integral to the story throughout the film, which is especially impactful from his character’s perspective. Riya Suman, Vaishali, Bindu Chandramouli, and others performed well.
Technical Aspects: Gopi Sundar’s songs and background music are major highlights of the film, especially in the way they elevate the mass scenes. Gnanasekhar V.S.’s cinematography is very natural; he effectively captures the conditions of the 1980s. The production design is top notch and so are the dialogues. The basic writing is decent but the narration could have been a lot better.
Analysis: Venky Atluri recently demonstrated with Lucky Bhaskar what it would be like if directors stepped out of their usual style to make different types of films. It is commendable that Virinchi Varma has also stepped out of his comfort zone of love stories and created a biopic logically and sensibly. Due to Virinchi Varma’s sensibilities, the story does not feel excessive at any point.
However, if the screenplay had been stronger, it would have been a great asset to the film. In its absence, the film struggles to connect with anyone other than those familiar with the history and the protagonist. The film’s making was honest, but overall, it was unable to engage the audience. Thus, although Virinchi Varma impressed as a director, he fell short as a storyteller. With higher production quality, the film’s overall output could have been improved.
Sometimes, honesty is essential, but it is equally important to develop the story to a level where the audience can appreciate that honesty. If not, the audience may overlook it, as drama must captivate viewers. The drama surrounding the character, as well as the character itself, is what entertains the audience. Jithender Reddy ultimately remained only a commendable attempt, as the filmmakers did not fully address this aspect.
Verdict: Overall, Jitender Reddy is an honest attempt that has a few moments that click. The narration is decent but the wow factor that is needed in such biopics is missing making this film a strictly okay watch.
Bottom Line: Honest Attempt
Jithender Reddy Rating: 2.5/5
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