What’s it about?
Manu (Shiva Kandukuri), a talented student in Warangal, falls for Jennifer Joseph’s (Megha Akash) beauty the moment he sees her at an exam hall. She challenges him to find her address in the city using only one hint.
After days of searching, he not only finds her address, but also proposes to her. After initial resistance, both of their elders acknowledge their love. However, their love story takes a turn when Manu becomes involved in an incident. Even after a few years, Manu is still living in her memories, becoming a drinker and working for a boisterous boss (Dolly Dhananjaya).
What new twists and turns would his life take in this new life without Jennifer?
Analysis
“Manu Charitra” is set in Warangal city, is primarily shot there, and includes a song composed by Oscar winner Chandrabose (who is from the historical city) about key streets in the city. But does the backdrop of Warangal city make any difference to the story of the film? No, it does not. It’s about as generic as it gets.
To be honest, no one should know the charitra (story) of someone like Manu, who is not only clueless of what he wants in life but also lacks idealistic characteristics, nor is his journey interesting or enjoyable to witness.
Every story needs an appropriate arc and objective. However, Manu’s story, like the protagonist’s, is entirely aimless and directionless. The storylines of the male protagonist Manu (Shiva Kandukuri is okay), Jennifer (Megha Akash plays the role in a decent manner), and the other girl Jaanu (newcomer Pragathi Shrivastava plays amateurishly) are all contrived and ridiculous.
The episode of Manu and Jennifer’s college love story contains some bright spots, but the second half is tedious to watch. The sub plot of political rivalry doesn’t merge with this love story.
The narrative skills and direction of Bharath Peddagani are mediocre. Gopi Sundar’s music is average. Shiva Kandukuri should focus on roles that are boy-next-door.
Bottom line: “Manu Charitra” is a tedious film to watch.
Rating: 2/5
Film: Manu Charitra
Cast: Shiva Kandukuri, Megha Akash, PragathiShrivastav, PriyaVadlamani, Suhash, and others
Music: Gopi Sundar
DOP: Rahul Shrivatsav
Editor: PrawinPudi
Art: Upendar Reddy
Producer: Narala Srinivas Reddy
Written and Directed by: BharathPeddagani
Release Date: June 23, 2023
