Panjaa Review

Pawan Kalyan's films are always touted as blockbuster even before they release, but seldom do they actually go on to be a blockbuster. It's been a long time since I've seen a good, entertaining Pawan film. His latest release 'Panjaa', after disaster 'Komaram Puli', is yet another example that clearly indicates that Pawan lacks the ability to pick smart films.

Panjaa tells the story of the rivalry between two dons who rule the roost of Kolkata; Bhagwan and Kulkarni. Jai is Bhagwan's loyal dog; and it's in him lies his strength that Jai brings to notice many times. Munna is Bhagwan's Australia returned son, a rebel by nature lusts Jahanvi and develops enmity with Jai. In the process of enmity, Munna slays Jahanvi, doubting her of debauchery with Jai. As destiny would have it, Jai kills Munna and in return earns Bhagwan's vendetta. Jai leaves behind the murderous life and shifts base to a faraway place in Andhra Pradesh; happily married to Sandhya. What happens between Jai and Bhagwan? Does Bhagwan avenge his brother's killer or not forms the rest of the story.

Panjaa has its share of good and worse moments, but unfortunately no awe inspiring moments. Just like any Pawan Kalyan film, 'Panjaa' exaggerates in many departments and thus fails miserably without living up to expectations. The first half is outright action packed, but too much of violence doesn't appeal all type of audiences. However, the comedy-ridden second half entertains one and all.

Performance wise, Pawan stands apart and does justice to his role. His dancing skills seem to be growing better with every passing day. Nevertheless, due to a sloppy script and screenplay the film fails to entertain as much as one may have anticipated. Sarah Jane and Anjala Lavania add sexiness into the film. I wonder why do Telugu films off late have two heroines instead of one. From what I see in films, I believe it may be because of the fact that two of them bring twice the sleaziness. More sleaziness means more happy audience, more entertainment. Comedy king, Brahmanadam brings more entertainment than all artistes of the film put together.

Yuvan's music should be praised, as he gives the film the feel and experience every Pawan lover would look for. Vishnu's direction is juvenile. It is unbelievable how can a director who has made some brilliant in the past such as 'Pattiyal' and 'Billa', can deliver such a mediocre film. The film may appeal Pawan's fans but on the whole film lacks big time. In one line, Power star's 'Panjaa' lacks power.