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With the much-anticipated release of Devara: Part 1, the excitement among fans has reached a fever pitch. Directed by Koratala Siva, this Telugu action drama stars Jr. NTR in a dual role, supported by Bollywood heavyweights Saif Ali Khan and Janhvi Kapoor, both making their Telugu cinema debuts. As the release date approaches on September 27, 2024, early reviews are already painting the film as a must-watch for action lovers and Jr. NTR fans alike.
Devara: A Brief History
The project was first announced in April 2021 under the working title NTR30, marking Jr. NTR’s 30th leading role. The official title, Devara, was revealed in May 2023, and soon after, the film was split into two parts. The principal photography for the first part began in April 2023 and wrapped in August 2024. The shooting took place in a variety of locations, including Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Goa, and even Thailand, adding a visually rich backdrop to the film.
While the latest trailer has further heightened excitement, a pre-release event in Hyderabad had to be canceled due to overwhelming fan turnout that exceeded venue capacity. In a heartfelt message on X (formerly Twitter), Jr. NTR expressed his sadness over not being able to attend, but the love and support from fans continue to fuel the hype surrounding the film.
Early Reviews and First Impressions
Despite the setback at the pre-release event, early reviews of Devara are now surfacing, with critics praising the film’s performances and engaging narrative. Film critic Umair Sandhu has shared his first review on X, stating that Jr. NTR delivers a powerhouse performance, keeping audiences hooked from start to finish. Saif Ali Khan also shines in his antagonist role, adding depth to the film.
According to Sandhu, Devara is a complete “Paisa Vasool” entertainer, ideally suited for the big screen. He rated the film 3.5 out of 5, commending its strong performances, engaging story, and high entertainment value.
The Plot: A Story of Courage and Family Conflict
Devara: Part 1 is set in the 1980s and 1990s and follows the life of Devara, a courageous man from a coastal village who battles the dangers of the sea to protect his people. However, the plot takes a twist when his own brother, Bhaira, betrays him, setting off a chain of events filled with tension and drama. As Devara confronts this betrayal, the story also explores his relationship with his timid son, Varada, who is preparing to carry on his father’s legacy. The film promises an emotional rollercoaster that blends action, family dynamics, and heart-pounding drama.
Star-Studded Cast and Impressive Crew
The cast of Devara is stacked with talent. Jr. NTR takes on two distinct roles, while Saif Ali Khan portrays the villain, Bhaira. Janhvi Kapoor, making her Telugu cinema debut, plays the role of Thangam. Supporting actors such as Prakash Raj, Srikanth, and Shine Tom Chacko further elevate the film’s credibility with their strong performances.
Behind the scenes, the film boasts a talented crew. R. Rathnavelu takes charge of cinematography, while the editing is handled by A. Sreekar Prasad. The film’s music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander, known for his excellent work in previous Telugu films such as Jersey and Nani’s Gang Leader. Notably, this marks director Koratala Siva’s second collaboration with a composer other than his usual partner, Devi Sri Prasad.
The Soundtrack
The music of Devara has already struck a chord with the audience. The first single, “Fear Song,” was released in May 2024, followed by “Chuttamalle” in August 2024, and “Daavudi” in September 2024. The fourth single, “Red Sea,” was released along with the film’s theatrical trailer. However, the fifth single, “Ayudha Pooja,” which was scheduled to drop in September 2024, has been postponed for undisclosed reasons, adding to the anticipation.
A Blockbuster in the Making?
Produced by Sudhakar Mikkilineni, Kosaraju Harikrishna, and Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, Devara is expected to be a visual treat with a powerful story at its core. Streaming giant Netflix has already acquired the film’s digital rights for a whopping ₹155 crore (approximately US$19 million), signaling their confidence in its potential success.
Conclusion: Devara—A Cinematic Experience Worth Waiting For
As the release of Devara: Part 1 approaches, early buzz and reviews suggest that it is poised to be a game-changer in Telugu cinema. With a strong narrative, breathtaking visuals, and stand-out performances, especially from Jr. NTR, the film promises to captivate both fans and casual moviegoers alike. Mark September 27, 2024, on your calendar because Devara looks like an action-packed entertainer you won’t want to miss.
