Thandel

Beyond a point you cannot rely on Sai Pallavi to rescue a movie every time. This is a true story which has been dramatised for superior cinematic viewing, however the duration of the movie has lasted longer than necessary with certain repetitive sequences around the emotional scenes thereby diluting the impact of the natural chemistry between the lead actors. It's like making a larger Dosa with the same cup of batter. Must watch but not more than once. DSP's thematic tune is lilting and positively haunting. Casting is excellent. I wish there was a more outdoor shoot, especially on the coastlines, instead of showing the same fishing harbour five times.

A Real Story of Pride of Our Country to Bring Our Citizens from Other Countries Who Were Mistakenly Travelling in a Seastorm.

This film wasn't just telling reality but even a 2nd story, which focuses on love between the couple shown in this film, as this movie was really one of a kind, as at one place in the village the girl is the protagonist, and in the sea the male character is the protagonist, like both are equally shown in this film.

This movie shows how, with the help of the girl, his soulmate, his whole crew is brought back to India from a foreign country.

Thandel, meaning the Leader, is shown as the boy who was stuck with his crew in another country, and the girl is further addressed as thandel rani - queen leader, as she saves many families from starvation and financial problems.

Really good music throughout the whole film, which bound it so compactly really great acting natural and cool.

The CGI/VFX from Sea were tolerable as a small-budget film but still were impressive, I say.

Hearing a lot of reviews I happened to watch this movie. It was good in parts. As it was based on a real incident, those parts were good. The visual effects were definitely good. Music and cinematography was also good. Naga chaitanya and other actors deliver a great performance while Sai Pallavi's acting was top notch. However the things that didn't work well for me was certain jail scenes were disturbing, why it has to be shown that way whenever Indian movie makers take movies about Pakistan. Why can't they make movies like Bajrang bhaijaan?., also the climax of the movie was too clichéd and predictable.. Good movie but definetly not that great.

Went with flat expectations and was pleasantly surprised, although not completely satisfied.

Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi's chemistry is the major asset of the film, it's what keeps you engaged despite the routine stuff on offer. But introducing the patriotism angle in the 2nd half is a major letdown, neither it's fresh nor it engages, climax wrapped up conveniently.

Naga Chaitanya has shown good improvement in terms of acting and screen presence, Sai Pallavi continues where she left from Amaran, but it feels repetitive. Others have got nothing.

Technically, DSP's work deserves huge applause, shows he's still the best in the business, Shamdat's camera work is superb, editing by Navin Nooli could have been better, 2nd half feels so long and dragged, production values by Geetha Arts are fine.

Coming to Director Chandoo Mondeti, has done a good job when it comes to love story, but the patriotism parts felt unnecessary and forced.

BOTTOMLINE: Not a long lasting, but fairly enjoyable love story.

Thandel is more than just a film; it's an emotional rollercoaster that blends romance, patriotism, and real-life struggles into a compelling narrative. Inspired by true events, the film follows the heart-wrenching journey of Indian fishermen who accidentally cross into Pakistani waters and find themselves imprisoned, while their loved ones fight for their release.

Naga Chaitanya delivers one of his most intense performances, portraying the pain, resilience, and hope of a man caught in an unimaginable situation. Sai Pallavi shines as the woman who refuses to give up on love, making every emotional beat of the story hit even harder. Their chemistry adds depth to the story, making it even more powerful.

The cinematography beautifully captures the contrast between the vast, unpredictable ocean and the claustrophobic prison cells, enhancing the film's immersive experience. Devi Sri Prasad's soul-stirring background score amplifies the emotions, ensuring that every scene resonates deeply.

With a well-paced narrative, gripping second half, and a touching climax, Thandel is a must-watch for those who love emotionally charged dramas based on real-life incidents. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.