Color Photo - Movie Review

Sandeep Raj, who's famous as a short film actor and director, made his first feature film "Color Photo". His close friend and his lead actor in short films, Suhas is the hero in the movie. Suhas is already a noted actor with films like Agent Sai Srinivas Athreya, Prati Roju Pandage, Uma Maheshwara Ugraroopasya, Dear Comrade etc., Chandni Chowdhary, another noted actress from short films, is heroine in the movie. 

Story - The story of the movie has been beaten to death since ages and is nothing novel. A guy from poor background falls in love with a girl from a financially higher background. How they met, how their relationship started, what struggles they faced and how did they end up, forms the story. Narration, screenplay and characterisations, dialogues and cast are the strengths of the movie. Director excelled in these areas which makes the movie grow on you. 

Performances :- Suhas is a natural actor. His voice is a big asset. The characterisation of "Jaya Krishna" suits perfectly for his physique, body language. He was flawless in the role. He was so natural that we connect with him and travel with him throughout the movie. You feel happy, excited, thrilled for him and he also makes you cry. Chandni got a very good role to show her acting prowess and she has nailed it. The character "Deepthi" has lot of confidence, maturity. Her expressions were fabulous. Sunil is terrific as Chandni's brother. It's great to see him I'm character roles, not just as a comedian. Viva Harsha provides the comic relief with his natural timing. There were many new artists and short film artists in recognizable roles and they did well. 

Technicians :- Music is the backbone for any love story. Kaala Bhairava has catched the soul of the movie perfectly with songs and background score. It elevates the movie to next level. Costumes were simple, apt and matching to the 90's genre. Cinematography was bright and rich. 

Need to tell a lot about director Sandeep Raj. He narrated a simple story in a touching way that we feel for the characters. He did elevate the heoism but in a subtle way, in line with hero's personality and characterisation. Conflict points and dialogues following them were logical and convincing. Best part is he showed what happens in the end in first episode itself, still glued us with his narration till end, which is a tough job. 

Analysis :- Not sure why majority of critics were killing the movie with negative ratings. Movie has good feel for it with natural characterisation and excellent acting. 

Rating :- 3/5. First OTT release in Covid that's really worth watching.