In a gripping tale set against the backdrop of a village on the banks of the mighty Godavari, “Gangs of Godavari,” the latest Telugu gangster film, emerges as an ambitious project helmed by writer and director Krishna Chaitanya. With a runtime that keeps you engaged through its massy tone and well-crafted narrative, the protagonist Ratna (Vishwak Sen) quickly becomes a focal point with his dynamic character arc. A few moments into the film, Ratna makes a striking statement about not knowing whether he is a good or bad person and not wanting to create a false impression of being a good man. This intriguing philosophical pondering sets the stage for a complex character study that balances his morally ambiguous journey.
As the story unfolds, Ratna’s dark and convoluted nature is thoroughly explored, revealing a character on the wrong side of the moral compass. Not merely a celebration of his antics, the film places him in front of a mirror, reflecting both his strengths and vulnerabilities. This gangster drama pays homage to iconic films such as “Nayakan,” “Vada Chennai,” and “Gangs of Wasseypur,” yet possesses its distinct flavor and regional authenticity.
The narrative is swift in establishing the setting and its intricate web of characters. Living in a village where the ancient practice of ‘kaththi kattadam’—placing a trident to avenge someone—holds a deathly significance, Ratna is initially the exception to the fatal tradition. However, as tensions rise, the odds turn against him, setting the stage for his dramatic rise and eventual confrontation with fate.
The film transports us back to a period devoid of smartphones and digital paraphernalia, focusing on the journey of Ratna from a small-time trader to a significant player in sand mining and local politics. The cinematography by Anith Madadi enhances the film’s aura with sun-kissed warm tones that complement the brooding undertones of the story. Through humor-laden encounters with rivals Doraswami Raju (Goparaju Ramana) and Nanaji (Nasser), the narrative blends lighter moments with intense drama.
Key to Ratna’s tale are the women in his life—sex worker Ratnamala (Anjali) and Bujji (Neha Shetty). Each woman’s intrinsic journey and evolution play crucial roles, enhancing the depth and engagement of the storyline. Anjali’s portrayal of Ratnamala is both nuanced and powerful, while Neha Shetty’s Bujji transforms from what initially seems to be a decorative role into a character of substantial strength and influence.
The first act of the movie progresses briskly, keeping the audience constantly engaged with its multi-faceted exploration of the gangster genre and the naivety of common folk.
. Ratna’s exploits, at times, border on satirical, especially as he manipulates people and situations to his advantage. One particular sequence involving a kidnapping and ransom is both tension-filled and laced with humor, demonstrating the film’s ability to blend different narrative tones.
A defining moment for Ratna comes when he self-proclaims the title “Tiger,” implying that repeated assertions can translate even the most unusual claims into accepted truths. These incisive observations of societal dynamics are where “Gangs of Godavari” excels, prompting audiences to ponder deeper themes amid the unfolding drama.
However, as the film delves deeper into Ratna’s character, detailing his backstory, the narrative begins to wobble. It reveals a ‘monster’ with layers of complexity, yet, mercifully, does not absolve him or justify his actions. The accountability left intact lends credibility to the story. Vishwak Sen’s portrayal stands out as he sheds his urbanity to immerse himself in Ratna’s raw, rural persona. His execution of Ratna’s swagger, fury, and eventual vulnerability is laudable, particularly when the character’s chinks are exposed, and fear becomes a daunting reality for him.
The film features strong performances across the board. Anjali impresses with her seamless integration into her character, portraying a woman who has endured myriad hardships. Neha Shetty gradually grows into her role, her transformation lending weight to the narrative.
“Gangs of Godavari” is a commendable venture that, while occasionally faltering in its execution, remains a compelling watch. With sharper writing and more consistent narrative focus, it had the potential to be a standout gangster drama in Telugu cinema. Nonetheless, it stands as an engaging and ambitious piece of work, backed by strong performances and a layered storyline.
“Gangs of Godavari” is an intriguing exploration of human darkness and societal dynamics, delivering a fascinating, albeit imperfect, cinematic experience.
