Swaraabhishekam Telugu Movie
Director K. Viswanath's comeback film "Swaraabhishekam" fails to recapture the magic of his earlier films on classical music and dance, including the memorable "Sankarabharanam" and "Saagara Sangamam".
A taut screenplay could have made "Swaraabhishekam" more engrossing. But badly etched roles, pedestrian comedy and repetitive scenes mar this tale of two brothers. The lead performances by Srikanth and Viswanath, though brilliant in patches, are unable to redeem the film.
The contrived plot revolves around the fortunes of two struggling musicians who eventually become renowned film music composers. Srikanth plays the younger brother married to a TV programmer (Laaya).
Irritated by the fact that her husband's hard work remains unnoticed while the elder Viswanath bags the awards, Laaya challenges the older couple. This leads to a fall-out between the siblings.
The rest of the film is about Srikanth's attempt to make it on his own and whether the brothers will be reunited.
The idea that film music composers are objects of popular adoration, comparable to masters of classical music, is unreal.
Srikanth is excellent, especially in the climax. But the talented Laaya is wasted in a poor role. For instance, in one scene, she finds it difficult to pronounce Telugu words, but in the next, she sings and discusses classical Telugu music!
Veteran Urvashi overdoes her role as the older wife. Sivaji is a glorified extra and the classical dancer Amuktha Mallyada wanders around without much to do.
Composer Vidyasagar's attempt at creating a 'classical album' is not up to the mark as it lacks repeat value.
Producer Kousalendra Rao's dream of making a "memorable" film with the eminent Viswanath has sadly not materialised. "Swaraabhishekam" is a concert that leaves the expectant audience cold.
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