The comedy show Jabardasth has been a breeding ground for many talented actors who have made their mark in the film industry. While several actors from the show have ventured into cinema, with Venu Yeldandi making his directorial debut with Balagam, Dhanraj is the latest to join the ranks of actors-turned-directors with his film Ramam Raghavam. The film, starring Samuthirakani and Dhanraj in the lead roles, was released with little fanfare and here’s a closer look at what it offers.
Story
Dasaradha Ramam (Samuthirakani) is a sincere and honest worker at a registrar office in a small town. He is well-respected for his integrity and frankness. Despite his good qualities, his son, Raghava (Dhanraj), is involved in questionable activities and dreams of quick wealth. Raghava refuses to hold down a steady job and instead befriends a lorry driver (Harish Uttaman), leading him further down a path of shortcuts to success. In an attempt to help his son, Ramam gets him a job at a petrol bunk.
However, Raghava’s impulsive decisions soon land him in trouble, resulting in a Rs. 10 lakh debt. To cover this, he forges his father’s signature and implicates Ramam in the process. Upon learning the truth, Ramam files a police complaint against his own son, leading to Raghava’s arrest. Angered and seeking revenge, Raghava hatches a plan with the lorry driver to kill his father and claim the insurance money. The story unfolds with twists and turns, revealing how Raghava’s plan plays out and whether Ramam can make his son successful despite the conflicts.
Analysis
At its core, Ramam Raghavam follows a familiar narrative — the classic story of a good father and a wayward son, a trope we’ve seen in Telugu cinema multiple times. However, Director Dhanraj brings a refreshing touch to the storyline, particularly in the second half. While the first half plays out like a standard tale of a father’s love and the son’s bad habits, it is in the latter half that the story truly picks up. Raghava’s decision to turn against his father and his subsequent plan to kill him for financial gain adds suspense and emotional depth to the narrative. The unexpected twists in the second half turn what could have been a predictable drama into a gripping and emotional experience, leaving the audience invested in the fate of the characters.
Though Dhanraj is primarily known for his acting, his directorial skills are evident, especially in how he handles the latter part of the film. The transitions from father-son drama to an emotional thriller are well-executed, making it clear that Dhanraj has found a new avenue for his talent.
Performances
Samuthirakani, a seasoned actor known for his strong performances, brings depth to the character of the father. Although his Telugu is not flawless, he effectively conveys the emotion and sincerity of the role. Dhanraj, in the role of the son, offers a decent performance, though it is hard for the audience to buy into the father-son dynamic between him and Samuthirakani due to their age gap. Casting a younger actor might have made this relationship feel more believable and potentially helped the film’s commercial appeal.
Pramodini shines in her role as the mother, particularly in the film’s emotional climax, where her performance is impactful. Harish Uttaman plays an essential supporting role as the lorry driver and does so convincingly. Other supporting actors, including Satya, Sunil, Srinivas Reddy and Prudhvi, add value to the narrative with their performances.
Technical Aspects
Despite being a low-budget film, Ramam Raghavam manages to maintain a solid technical quality. The music, composed by Arun Chilliveru, complements the emotional tone of the film. The cinematography by Durga Prasad captures the essence of the characters’ struggles and the dramatic shifts in the story. Though the budget may be limited, the film does not compromise on its technical execution.
Verdict
Ramam Raghavam marks a promising directorial debut for Dhanraj. While the first half might feel like a familiar tale of familial conflict, the second half adds intrigue, making the narrative more engaging and emotionally charged. The father-son relationship and the emotional twists offer a different take on a well-worn storyline. However, the film may not achieve commercial success, primarily due to the lack of buzz around its release and the casting choices. Nonetheless, it is a commendable effort from Dhanraj as a director and his growth in this new role is evident. If you’re looking for a heartfelt family drama with a few surprises, Ramam Raghavam is worth a watch.
Cast: Samuthirakani, Dhanraj, Pramodini, Harish Uttaman, Satya, Moksha, Prudhvi, Srinivas Reddy, and others
Music: Arun Chilliveru
Cinematography: Durga Prasad
Producer: Prudhvi Polavarapu
Director: Dhanraj
Release Date:
February 21, 2025
Rating: 3/5
