Pathala Bhairavi

Pathala Bhairavi (1951): Brief Review -

India's answer to the fantasy magnum opus like "The Thief of Bagdad" (1924) and "The Adventure of Prince Achmed" (1926) and it's on a grand level of its own. The film takes us back to the golden era of Indian cinema, when storytelling was revered by filmmakers, directors, writers, and actors alike. Pathala Bhairavi marks a bold leap in Telugu cinema, presenting a fantasy drama on a scale never seen before, with visuals that were ahead of their time. While films like Georges Méliès' A Trip to the Moon (1902) showcased magical moments of fire and disappearing objects, Pathala Bhairavi brought these elements to life 50 years later, captivating Indian audiences with the magic of cinema. Similarly, the silent era classics such as The Thief of Bagdad and The Adventures of Prince Achmed set new benchmarks in storytelling, visuals, and adventurous elements. What India needed was a visionary filmmaker who could blend cutting-edge technology with commercial cinema, and who better than K. V. Reddy? Not only did he integrate advanced visual technology and make a mass entertainer, but he also created a groundbreaking film that continues to mesmerize viewers to this day. The film's visual effects, action sequences, conflicts, and storytelling remain as fascinating and charming as ever. Inspired by folklore, particularly the stories of Aladdin, the film introduces a unique take with Goddess Pathala Bhairavi replacing the traditional genie. This connection to Indian folk culture, expertly crafted by Reddy and writer Kamalakara Kameswara Rao, adds an authentic touch to the story. NTR dominates the film with his commanding presence, while SVR delivers a memorable and formidable villain performance. Ultimately, Pathala Bhairavi is a cinematic achievement of an unparalleled level in Indian cinema, deserving of its place as a timeless classic.

RATING - 8/10*

By - #samthebestest.

One of greatest movies of Indian cinema which bible to world cinema where there were no animation VFX that time made this fictional movie and proved it without technology Telugu cinema director KV Reddy has shown to the world of cinema.

Story, cinematography, screenplay was fantabulous.

I would say it's pride for Telugu film industry to have a movie with extraordinary story telling ability and performance oriented characters. NTR & SV Ranga Rao' s acting at their best that makes audience stick to the screen.

The exciting story line with so much magic to hold the audience interest. Photography in its best form, even with minimal equipment and economic situation.

Highly experienced actors and actresses with so much finery in every detail...including the shape of scent bottle of the mantrika(SV Ranga Rao) not going to any obscene or undue weight age to any character. Nodoubt it is one of the most exciting and finest movie i have ever seen after "maya bazaar"(old B/w movie, not new movie with same name)which featured same SV ranga Rao , but in a positive role. I never get to see that acting , anymore now.

sudarshan

Pathala Bhairavi is a Telugu film released in 1951 and starring NTR,SVR, Malathi,Relangi and "Mahanati" Savitri in guest appearance. The plot follows how one poor gardener wins his lady love (who is a princess by the way) amidst the obstacles set by a wicked magician.

Though this is a film of 1950s, it is highly entertaining as well as engaging in its storyline. The performances of every cast member is excellent, especially SVR, who blows your mind as the wicked magician. Production values are adequate as per the limitations of Indian cinema at that time.

Story & screenplay : Very good Dialogues : Match the period setting Music : Sequences shot well but can feel stretched (IMO) Cinematography: Excellent Cast: Supremely good Direction: Loved it

This is one of the earlier films of NTR, better know as Nata Sarvabhowma.

Do watch it for the sheer performances and engaging storyline.