A Heartfelt Family Drama Resonating with Middle-Class Women
“Peka Medalu,” produced by Rakesh Varre under the Crazy Ants Productions banner and directed by Nilagiri Mammilla, is a stirring family drama that touches the lives of many middle-class women. The film stars Vinod Kishan as the protagonist, Laxman, with Anusha Krishna playing his wife, Varalakshmi. The supporting cast includes Retika Srinivas, Jagan Yogi Raj, Anusha Nutala, Ganesh Tipparaju, and Naren Yadav. The film features Haricharan K. as the Director of Photography and music composed by Smaran Sai.
Plot:
The story is set in a Hyderabad slum where a middle-class family struggles to make ends meet. Laxman (Vinod Kishan), despite having a B.Tech degree, seeks quick financial gains through poker and real estate ventures, neglecting his responsibilities. His wife, Varalakshmi (Anusha Krishna), endeavors to improve their situation by starting a small curry business, but Laxman’s lack of support and increasing debt lead to mounting difficulties for the family.
The plot takes a turn when Shweta (Retika Srinivas), an NRI returning from abroad, intersects with Laxman’s life in an unforeseen manner, sparking a series of dramatic events. As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left questioning the nature of Shweta and Laxman’s relationship, whether Varalakshmi will achieve her goals, and if Laxman will ultimately change and support his wife or persist in his self-serving ways.
Performance:
Vinod Kishan delivers a compelling portrayal of Laxman, capturing the essence of a flawed and ambitious man. Anusha Krishna shines as Varalakshmi, offering a poignant performance that resonates with the family audience, especially in the film’s climax. Retika Srinivas effectively embodies her role as an NRI, adding depth to the storyline. The supporting cast also contributes effectively to the film’s overall impact.
Technicalities:
Producer Rakesh Varre’s choice of this script proves successful, showcasing a film with solid technical execution. The production values are commendable, with the promotional efforts by Crazy Ants Productions adding to the film’s appeal. Smaran Sai’s background score and songs enrich the narrative, while Haricharan K.’s cinematography enhances the visual experience. The editing by Srujana Adusumilli and Hamza Ali is crisp and effective. Director Nilagiri Mammilla excels in portraying middle-class struggles and women’s empowerment with authenticity and emotional depth.
Conclusion:
“Peka Medalu” offers an emotional and engaging family experience, driven by a core message of women’s empowerment. It provides a roller coaster of emotions with its relatable middle-class portrayal.
Rating: 3/5
