Neninthe is a Telugu-language action drama film released on December 19, 2008. Directed by Puri Jagannadh, the movie provides a realistic depiction of the struggles faced by aspiring filmmakers and actors in the Telugu film industry. Starring Ravi Teja in the lead role, along with Siya Gautam, the film explores the challenges, corruption, and exploitation that exist behind the glamorous world of cinema.
The movie carries Puri Jagannadh’s signature style, blending hard-hitting dialogues with an engaging narrative. It was appreciated for its bold storytelling, though it received mixed reactions from audiences and critics. This review will analyze the movie’s plot, its strengths and weaknesses, and its box office performance while providing an overall recommendation for viewers.
Plot Summary
Neninthe follows Ravi (Ravi Teja), an aspiring film director who works as an assistant director in the Telugu film industry. Despite his talent and passion for filmmaking, he struggles to find opportunities and faces constant obstacles from producers, actors, and other industry professionals. Alongside him is Sandhya (Siya Gautam), a struggling actress who aspires to make it big but is exploited at every step.
The film showcases the cutthroat nature of the industry, where success comes at a price. Ravi’s determination to direct his own movie while battling industry politics forms the crux of the story. As he fights to prove himself, he encounters various hurdles, from financial struggles to powerful industry figures trying to suppress him. The film offers a raw and unfiltered take on the dark side of the film world.
What’s Good?
1. Ravi Teja’s Performance
Ravi Teja delivers an energetic and powerful performance as the struggling director. His portrayal of an ambitious yet frustrated filmmaker is both intense and relatable. His dialogue delivery, especially in emotional scenes, adds to the authenticity of the character.
2. Puri Jagannadh’s Direction
Puri Jagannadh deserves credit for attempting a bold subject that exposes the realities of the Telugu film industry. His screenplay is sharp, and the dialogues are impactful, often reflecting the industry’s bitter truths.
3. Hard-Hitting Dialogues
The movie is filled with dialogues that criticize the corruption and politics in the film industry. Many of these lines resonated with aspiring filmmakers and were appreciated for their honesty.
4. Realistic Approach
Unlike commercial entertainers, Neninthe takes a raw and realistic approach. The struggles of assistant directors, exploitation of newcomers, and financial difficulties in making a film are depicted in a way that feels authentic.
5. Background Score
Music composer Chakri provides a solid background score that elevates the film’s emotional moments. The songs, though not chartbusters, blend well with the narrative.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Engaging Storyline: The movie keeps the audience hooked with its gritty portrayal of the film industry.
- Strong Lead Performance: Ravi Teja’s performance adds depth to the movie.
- Bold Themes: The film does not shy away from addressing uncomfortable truths about the industry.
Weaknesses:
- Limited Commercial Appeal: The movie lacks mass entertainment elements, making it less appealing to mainstream audiences.
- Pacing Issues: Some portions of the film feel stretched, especially in the second half.
- Weak Supporting Cast: While Ravi Teja shines, the supporting performances are not as strong, which affects the overall impact of certain scenes.
Target Audience
Neninthe primarily appeals to:
- Aspiring filmmakers and actors who want to understand the harsh realities of the industry.
- Fans of realistic cinema that focuses on strong storytelling rather than commercial elements.
- Ravi Teja fans who enjoy his intense performances.
- Viewers interested in behind-the-scenes stories of the film industry.
Box Office Details
| Details | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹8 crore |
| Total Box Office Collection | ₹12 crore |
| Profit/Loss | Moderate Success |
Day-wise Earnings (India & Overseas)
| Day | India Collection | Overseas Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | ₹2.5 crore | ₹0.8 crore |
| Day 2 | ₹2.0 crore | ₹0.6 crore |
| Day 3 | ₹1.8 crore | ₹0.5 crore |
| Day 4 | ₹1.5 crore | ₹0.4 crore |
| Day 5 | ₹1.2 crore | ₹0.3 crore |
Neninthe had a strong opening due to Ravi Teja’s fan base, but the collections dropped after mixed reviews. Despite this, the movie managed to recover its budget and made a moderate profit.
Recommendation
Neninthe is a bold attempt to expose the dark realities of the film industry. While it may not cater to all audiences, those interested in the behind-the-scenes struggles of filmmaking will find it engaging. Ravi Teja’s performance and Puri Jagannadh’s direction make it a worthwhile watch. If you enjoy realistic dramas, Neninthe is definitely recommended.
