In the realm of contemporary Telugu cinema, Viswam, directed by Sreenu Vaitla, stands as a stark reminder that the evolution of storytelling is not always synonymous with improvement. Featuring Gopichand and Kavya Thapar, this film attempts to weave together action, comedy, and emotional drama, but ultimately finds itself ensnared in a narrative that feels disjointed and outdated.

From the onset, Viswam introduces a gripping premise involving a terrorist infiltrating political and academic circles in the Telugu states, culminating in a dramatic bomb blast at a restaurant. However, the film swiftly shifts gears, seemingly forgetting its urgent narrative in favor of a myriad of comedic subplots that dilute the tension. The inclusion of familiar tropes, such as the hero’s predictable role as a savior, diminishes the overall impact of the story.

The film introduces a host of characters, including wannabe politician Bachiraju and his morally ambiguous assistant, Deekshitulu. While the comedic elements aim for a light-hearted tone, they often fall flat, lacking the sharp wit and charm that characterized some of Vaitla’s previous works like Dookudu and Venky. The dialogue is peppered with wordplay and rhymes that may elicit a chuckle but quickly fade from memory.

Kavya Thapar’s portrayal of Samaira, a movie stylist entangled in a web of deceit, offers a romance subplot that feels both contrived and superficial. While the film attempts to address the escalating costs of filmmaking, it inadvertently highlights a broader issue: the need for scripts that respect the audience’s intelligence rather than take them for granted.

Despite a few standout performances, notably by Vennela Kishore, who tries to inject humor into the narrative, the film’s pacing and structure leave much to be desired. The elaborate train sequence, reminiscent of Vaitla’s earlier successes, fails to capture the same magic, testing the audience’s patience more than their laughter.

In conclusion, Viswam serves as a testament to the notion that not all cinematic endeavors translate to engaging storytelling. While it boasts a promising premise and a capable cast, the execution falters, leading to an experience that feels more tiresome than entertaining. For those seeking a film that challenges the norms of mainstream Telugu cinema, this may not be the best choice.

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5 Stars)