'Jathi Ratnalu' is running in theatres amid a blockbuster talk. On Day 1, the film reportedly recovered 50% of what its distributors had invested. In this section, we are going to review the latest box-office release.
Story
Naveen Polishetty, Priyadarshi and Rahul Ramakrishna are thick friends who have their share of petty differences. They migrate out of Jogipet with the aim of settling down in Hyderabad. Once in the city, they are implicated in the heinous crime of attempting to kill Chanakya (Murali Sharma), who is all set to become the State's Sports Minister. The high-profile case leads to some twists, including Operation Noodles.
Performances
Naveen Polishetty goes beyond his 'Agent Sai Srinivas Athreya' act and delivers non-stop comedy. The second half of 'ASSA' was a serious affair. On the other hand, 'JR' is an unabashed comedy till the end. It's Naveen's turn and he doesn't disappoint a bit.
Priyadarshi and Rahul Ramakrishna may not get as much screen space as Naveen, but they bring the roof down with their timing. Faria Abdullah, who looks non-comic in the first half, brings out a new shade in the second half.
VK Naresh, who plays the heroine's tense dad, is fun to watch. Murali Sharma, who recently gave solid performances in films like 'A1 Express', shows his comic timing with ease. Brahmanandam could have been better. One feels there should have been more of Vennela Kishore. Mahesh Achanta and Mirchi Kiran are impressive.
Technical aspects
'Chitti', 'Mana Jathiratnalu' and 'Chanchalguda Jail Lo' by composer Radhan are as apt as the film's BGM. The cinematography by Siddam Manohar is a big plus.
At about 147 minutes, the film has got the right editing. The production design doesn't leave room for inauthenticity.
Analysis
It's held that a satirical comedy like 'Jathi Ratnalu' must be watched with the brains kept in a suspension mode. Frankly, it is more intelligent than most of the so-called genuine thrillers that we get to watch these days. The film, directed by Anudeep KV, uses the genre (satire) to the best use.
The film is replete with funny repartees and hilarious one-liners. Every now and then, Naveen Polishetty breaks into madcap humour with gay abandon. The film makes us laugh without resorting to cheap tactics like racist 'humour', body-shaming 'jokes' and all.
A good thing about 'Jathi Ratnalu' is that it feels like an elaborate 'Jabardasth' skit without playing to the gallery. It's a healthy comedy that is massively engaging throughout the first half.
There are issues with the second half, when the film loses some sheen. The comedy is found somewhat off-color here. But, in the last 25 minutes, the film gets its act together all over again.
The political element in the story is also milked for its potential for satire. The unexpected coming together of two rivals, played by Murali Sharma and Brahmaji, is interesting.
The courtroom scenes could have been better. But the way they stage the comedy, especially with respect to Faria Abdullah, makes us forgive the flaws.
Closing Remarks
'Jathi Ratnalu' is a must-watch laugh riot.
