Behind the Movie Ala Ela: There are very few occasions, we see small films of this kind coming like dark horses to win the game in final. Starring Rahul Ravindran, Vennela Kishore, Shani in leads, ‘Ala Ela’ did not get enough of media coverage and promotions comparative to the other releases of this week. Finally, I got to watch this film in a single screen due to positioning problem. Let us get into the review.
In the Movie Ala Ela: Story takes off with introduction of Karthik (Rahul Ravindran), IT employee in Hyderabad who hates to travel to native village frequently for seeing the ailing grand pa. Finally, he decides to fulfil the last wish of grand pa by marrying the old man’s close friend’s daughter Divya (Kushi). Dowry minded Karthik agrees for wedding but wants to make it a lovable experience by meeting the girl hiding his actual identity. For this, Karthik and couple of friends Keerthan (Vennela Kishore), Kalyan (Shani) reach Rajole. Here comes major twist with entry of new character Shruti (Heeba Patel), a friend of Divya getting connected with Karthik. Finally, whom did Karthik choose among two? What is the importance of Keerthan and Kalyan in influencing Karthik?
Values of the Movie Ala Ela: Story might look new from the way it has been projected by writer cum director Aneesh Krishna. In fact, it’s an old tale. What makes ‘Ala Ela’ different is the entertaining screenplay filled with full of fun and energy. Aneesh Krishna’s inspiration from road movies is although visible, he is definitely a promising talent. He showed command to keep audience alert with continuous comedy punches. In one line, Aneesh utilised the premise of story to the fullest by adding situational humour. There were some forced injections in second half; whatsoever pre climax makes everything fall in line. From Aneesh’s point of view, he is worth appreciative. Sai Sreeram’s camera work is imposing. He exploited the village beauty mingling with free flow of story. For a small budget flick, this is more than expected. Editing was also very neat without any overdo. Bheems music sounded fine both in songs and re-recording. Production values of Ashok Vardhan and Ashoka Creations are above average.
From performance point of view, Vennela Kishore should be given top credits for offering a thoroughly entertaining show. Whenever story takes toll on us, he makes entire narration lighter with unique timing. As a henpecked husband, he got a meaty character. Of course, Rahul is the hero because orientation of story pivots around him. Seriously, he did decent job in a boy next door kind of characterization. Shani as self proclaimed creative ad film director got his share to split the laughs. Into female leads, Hebah Patel is more of good looking and less of perfectionist in acting. Kushi lost importance as movie proceeded. Bhanu Sri Mehra too is unimportant. Kondavalasa, Krishna Bhagawan did a fine job.
Out of the Movie Ala Ela: Undoubtedly, this is best pick in lot of week’s new releases. You have a reason to laugh, thanks to Aneesh’s sensible flair for humour. There might have been some loose ends yet he fleshed out a clean, neat dish to serve the tastes of youth audience who are easily to connect with. Content wise, there is nothing abundant in first half with entire focus kept on fun generation and a predictable narration. Interval bang is nicely conceived. Second half is well paced. Apparently, there was a lag while pre climax portions lifted movie to new high with needful twists and turns. Every character was in wonderful sync supporting each other to provide a fun ride for viewers.
‘Ala Ela’ has all the qualities to become a surprise winner. The movie is admittedly intended at multiplex patrons, it still has chances to find a market in B, C centres too for Vennela Kishore comedy. Distributors are surely to see a rise in screen counts for second week to match the public demands. All in all, ‘Ala Ela’ is worth a one-time watch with friends.
Cinejosh Verdict of Ala Ela: Laughter Therapy.
Cinejosh Rating: 2.75/5
Reviewed by Srivaas