Tharun Bhascker, known for his popularity among the youth, has unveiled his latest venture, the crime comedy, Keedaa Cola. Boasting a cast of renowned actors, the film hit theaters today with high expectations. Let’s delve into the narrative and assess its reception.
Plot Summary:
Vaasthu (Chaitanya Rao) grapples with Tourette syndrome and ekes out a living by selling patient simulators, residing with his grandfather Varadharaju (Brahmanandam). When a legal dispute arises due to a damaged simulator, Vaasthu, prompted by his lawyer friend Lancham (Rag Mayur), decides to file a consumer forum case after discovering a cockroach in a soft drink meant for his grandfather. Their paths intersect with Jeevan (Jeevan Kumar), an aspiring Corporator, setting the stage for the unfolding story.
Highlights:
Similar to Tharun Bhascker’s previous works, Keedaa Cola showcases distinctive and situational humor. The second half proves pivotal with engaging sequences and a thrilling, eccentric climax. Bhascker’s trademark comedy permeates the film, featuring visually-driven comedic moments, as promised during promotions.
Noteworthy instances include Tharun Bhascker urging Jeevan Kumar to speak in English, an old song accompanying Bhascker’s use of certain expressions, Vishnu Oi’s comical antics, and Raghu Ram’s interactions with professional killers. Tharun Bhascker impressively dons the role of Naidu.
Supporting cast members, including Jeevan Kumar, Rag Mayur, Chaitanya Rao, and Vishnu Oi, steal the spotlight. Technically, Keedaa Cola excels with impactful soundtracks and commendable visuals. The 2-hour runtime is apt for this crime comedy.
Drawbacks:
The primary drawback of Keedaa Cola lies in its thin storyline. While the second half boasts a neat narrative with entertaining elements, the plot lacks the substance to elevate the film further. The initial half falls short, with limited exciting scenes and a focus on character establishment. Some jokes miss the mark, and the pacing occasionally slows down. Brahmanandam, although commendable, has limited screen time, potentially disappointing fans of the legendary comedian.
Technical Aspects:
Vivek Sagar’s vibrant background score and AJ Aaron’s exquisite cinematography stand out as pillars of Keedaa Cola. Both contribute significantly to the overall viewing experience. The production values are commendable, and the editing is satisfactory.
Director Tharun Bhascker, while succeeding in delivering a whimsical experience, faces criticism for the film’s lack of a robust storyline. Keedaa Cola thrives on humor, with Bhascker showcasing his acting prowess and eliciting commendable performances from the cast.
Verdict:
In conclusion, Keedaa Cola emerges as a watchable crime comedy-drama, with a particularly engaging second half and a lively conclusion. Tharun Bhascker’s directorial touch is evident in select sequences, and the humor in the latter part resonates well. Despite a somewhat weak storyline and room for improvement in the first half, the film’s quirky moments, situational humor, and technical finesse make it a passable choice for the weekend.