Movie : Darshini
Starring : Vikas, Shanti Priya, Satya Prasad etc.
Cinematography : Ravi Milky
Editor : Praveen Jairaj, Chandu Chalamala
Music : Nijani Anjan
Background Score : Shiva Prasad
Producer : Dr. LV Suryam
Director : Dr. Pradeep Allu
"Darshini," a science-fiction thriller produced by Dr. LV Suryam and directed by Dr. Pradeep Allu, features Vikas, Satya Prasad, and Shanti in the lead roles. Released by V4 Cine Creations, the film combines elements of suspense, intrigue, and moral dilemmas. Here's an in-depth look at this recent theatrical release.
Plot:
Best friends Santosh (Vikas), Priya (Shanti), and Livingstone (Satya Prasad) decide to spend time at a farmhouse owned by Dr. Darshini. During their stay, they discover a machine that reveals their future. As they watch the next day's events unfold on the monitor, Dr. Darshini mysteriously vanishes, adding to the suspense. A police officer arrives at the farmhouse, claiming to be on patrol, further confusing the trio. What happened to Dr. Darshini? What is the secret behind the future-predicting machine? Who is the cop, and what is his sister's involvement? Can the trio escape their predicament?
Performances:
The film primarily focuses on the characters of Vikas, Satya Prasad, and Shanti. Vikas effectively portrays a possessive boyfriend, while Shanti, who is affectionately called Tingari for her innocence, brings a sense of naivety to her role. Satya Prasad plays an overweight character who often freezes and uses a stress ball to cope. However, the performances could have been stronger to better suit the sci-fi genre. The supporting cast, including the actor playing Dr. Darshini, has a minimal impact.
Technical Department:
Ravi Milky’s cinematography suffers due to inadequate production values. Editors Praveen Jairaj and Chandu Chalamala maintain a tight pace, ensuring the film doesn't drag. While Nijani Anjan’s music and Siva Prasad’s background score are serviceable, they could have been enhanced with better production quality.
Analysis:
Director Dr. Pradeep Allu crafts a cerebral narrative that transitions from mere entertainment to a thought-provoking experience. The female lead’s character arc is filled with suspense, while a male character's struggle with lustful tendencies adds depth to the storyline. "Darshini" brings a novel perspective to the sci-fi genre, blending techno-horror elements with manipulated voices and enigmatic CCTVs. The presence of an unseen character and Dr. Darshini’s premonition of her death, intertwined with the watchful cop, adds layers of intrigue.
The second half of the film delves into a darker tone, with a jungle scene intensifying the mystery. Hidden motives and character secrets introduce further twists.
Verdict
"Darshini" offers an innovative take on the sci-fi genre with a compelling narrative. However, its impact is diminished by its production values.
Rating: 2.25/5