Ravi Teja’s “Mr. Bachchan” REVIEW

Story:
Anand, aka Bachchan (Ravi Teja), is an honest income tax officer suspended for his integrity. Returning to his hometown, he falls in love with Jikki (Bhagyashree Borse), who returns his feelings. Just as their life seems to improve, Bachchan is reinstated and assigned to raid the residence of a powerful local figure, Mutyam Jaggaiah (Jagapathi Babu). This mission tests Bachchan’s resolve as he faces unexpected challenges and twists, revealing hidden truths and obstacles. The film unfolds as Bachchan navigates this complex and high-stakes situation, blending romance, action, and drama.

Pros:
When “Mr. Bachchan” was announced, many questioned the decision to remake the successful film “Raid.” However, director Harish Shankar successfully retains the core of the original while adapting the story for Telugu audiences. Ravi Teja excels in the role of the resolute IT officer, bringing his signature energy and charm. His portrayal, marked by a deep admiration for icons like Kishore Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan, resonates well. His chemistry with Bhagyashree Borse, who delivers a standout performance blending glamour and emotion, adds a refreshing layer to the film. Jagapathi Babu impresses, particularly in his intense confrontations with Ravi Teja. The supporting cast performs effectively, with Satya’s comedy providing much-needed humor. Mickey J Meyer’s soundtrack enhances the film, with vibrant mass numbers and nostalgic retro music during romantic scenes, paying tribute to Amitabh Bachchan and Kishore Kumar. Overall, the film offers a successful blend of action, romance, and nostalgia.

Cons:
Harish Shankar effectively combines romance, action, comedy, and punchy dialogues to captivate mass audiences, especially in the first half of “Mr. Bachchan.” However, the film falters in the second half as it deviates from the main plot, introducing superfluous comedy that weakens its overall impact. The intensity and mass appeal that defined the first half diminish noticeably. Bhagyashree Borse, despite her strong performance, is underutilized in the latter part, with limited screen time failing to justify her character’s potential. Jagapathi Babu’s role, which starts off as a formidable antagonist, loses its edge in the second half, reducing his impact. The climax feels outdated and implausible, undermining the film’s appeal within the mass-entertainment genre. A more engaging approach to the final confrontation could have significantly enhanced the film’s overall appeal.

Technical Aspects:
As a director, Harish Shankar skillfully balances mass elements with comedy and romance in the first half of “Mr. Bachchan.” However, the second half suffers from pacing and coherence issues. As a writer, Shankar’s focus on refining the second half falls short, though his strength in crafting punch dialogues is evident. Cinematographer Ayananka Bose excels in capturing the film’s visual appeal, especially during the song sequences. Editor Ujwal Kulkarni could have improved the second half by trimming unnecessary scenes. Mickey J Meyer’s music stands out, with energetic tracks that enhance the film. The production values are solid, and the art department’s efforts to evoke a retro vibe, particularly in the first half, are commendable.

Verdict:
Overall, “Mr. Bachchan” offers some enjoyable moments but primarily targets mass audiences. Ravi Teja and Jagapathi Babu deliver solid performances, with Bhagyashree Borse adding glamour. However, the second half suffers from unnecessary comedy and pacing issues, diluting the film’s impact. If you’re a fan of “Raid,” the original film that inspired “Mr. Bachchan,” it’s best to manage your expectations, as the remake may not fully meet the high bar set by its predecessor.

#Rating: 2.75/5

Director: Harish Shankar
Starring: Jagapathi Babu, Bhagyashri Borse, Ravi Teja
Music Director: Mickey J. Meyer
Cinematographer: Ayananka Bose
Editor: Ujwal Kulkarni
Producers: T.G. Vishwa Prasad