What is Kushi (2023) All About?
Kushi, directed by Shiva Nirvana and starring Vijay Devarakonda and Samantha, is a romantic film that delves into the complexities of love and marriage. The story revolves around Viplav and Ara, who tie the knot against their parents’ wishes, and explores how they navigate the difficulties in their relationship. Alongside the romantic angle, the film also touches upon generational differences in belief systems, with themes of atheism and astrology woven into the narrative.
How Do Vijay Devarakonda and Samantha Perform in Kushi?
Vijay Devarakonda brings a subtle charm to the role of Viplav, toning down his typically aggressive on-screen persona. While he is convincing as a lover boy, his performance occasionally slips into monotony, particularly in his dialogue delivery. Samantha, on the other hand, portrays a range of emotions convincingly. However, her appearance has led to some awkward moments on-screen, given the age difference between her and Devarakonda. Despite this, their on-screen chemistry is one of the highlights of the film.
What Makes the First Half of Kushi Engaging?
The first half of Kushi sets up the story well, with picturesque locations in Kashmir and noteworthy performances by the lead actors. Vennela Kishore adds some comic relief, keeping the pace steady. The initial romance between Viplav and Ara holds the viewer’s attention, despite certain predictable elements in the plot. The film loses some of its luster midway but manages to end the first half on a promising note.
Where Does Kushi Fall Short?
The film stumbles in its second half with a series of dragged-out scenes and convoluted storylines. The interplay between atheism and spirituality, represented by Murali Sharma and Sachin Khedekar, becomes tedious to follow. Moreover, unnecessary elongation of conflict scenes between the lead pair and subpar comic timing in certain segments adds to the viewer’s impatience.
How Does the Technical Team Fare?
While Kushi boasts of excellent cinematography by Murali G, capturing the breathtaking vistas of Kashmir, it falls short on editing. Prawin Pudi could have trimmed down repetitive and unnecessary scenes to make the narrative more gripping. Music by Hesham Abdul Wahab is a mixed bag, with some tunes standing out while others act as speed breakers.
Is Kushi Worth Watching?
Kushi is a feel-good romantic drama that starts off strong but falters in the execution. While the film showcases strong performances and stunning visuals, it fails to maintain the narrative flow, particularly in the second half. Nevertheless, if you are a fan of romantic dramas or the lead actors, Kushi could be a one-time watch.
