23 (Iravai Moodu)

Watching 23 will make you realise why many a talented director resort to Indie kind of film making.

Raj Rachakonda breaks all the conventions, formulas and formats in making this film convey his vision sincerely and authentically. No production house would have allowed it. There are no fixed plot points at fixed timelines, no interval bangs, only pure storytelling. He selects new actors Teja and Tanmay for the roles of protagonists and they more than do justice to their roles. Some reviewers, totally missing the vision of the director, have been suggesting that more mature or experienced starcast would have carried the film on their shoulders. The director never wanted or projected the main character Sagar to be a regular hero. He just drew a fine line where he wanted us to empathise with Sagar character but never think that he is right. Not many films, certainly no indian film as far as I could remember succeeded in portraying a protagonist who is guilty of killing 23 persons, without ever justifying the heinous crime, but still successfully connect to the audience and earn their empathy.

Teja should get lot more credit for carrying off such a character so naturally in his first film.

This movie is a compelling and thought-provoking watch, especially for those interested in stories rooted in reality, as it powerfully captures real-life incidents that took place in Andhra Pradesh during the 1990s-a turbulent era marked by intense socio-political unrest, caste-based violence, and systemic inequalities. The film excels in its deep and realistic characterization, bringing to life complex individuals who are caught in the web of power, oppression, and resistance, reflecting the lived experiences of marginalized communities and the deeply entrenched caste dynamics that continue to shape Indian society. Drawing inspiration from harrowing real events such as the Chundur bus massacre, where Dalits were brutally targeted and murdered in a shocking act of caste violence, the movie confronts the audience with the harsh realities of how deeply caste prejudice can pervade both society and the institutions meant to protect its people. It also references the Jubilee Hills bomb blast, a tragic incident that exposed the fragile law and order situation in the state and highlighted the political motivations and communal tensions that often underlie such acts of violence. Through its layered narrative, the film exposes the imbalance in the Indian justice system, showing how individuals from dominant castes often escape consequences while those from oppressed backgrounds are unfairly targeted, silenced, or denied justice. With gripping performances, powerful dialogues, and an unflinching lens on reality, the film not only revisits historical injustices but also urges viewers to reflect on the continuing impact of caste-based discrimination in contemporary India. It challenges the audience to question how far we've come as a society and how far we still have to go in terms of achieving true equality and justice for all, regardless of caste or class. The meticulous attention to detail in depicting the socio-political backdrop of the 90s-through costumes, locations, news coverage, and dialogues-adds to the film's authenticity and emotional weight, making it more than just a story, but rather a mirror to the injustices that have shaped regional and national history. By blending individual stories of pain, resistance, and survival with larger systemic issues, the movie succeeds in humanizing the statistics and headlines, giving a voice to those who were silenced by violence and institutional apathy. Whether you're familiar with the events it portrays or learning about them for the first time, this film serves as an eye-opening journey into a dark chapter of Indian history that continues to have echoes in the present. Its honest storytelling and refusal to sugarcoat difficult truths make it not just a movie, but a bold social statement that demands attention, discussion, and above all, remembrance of those who suffered in silence.

"23" is a gripping psychological thriller that intricately weaves themes of obsession, paranoia, and the quest for identity. Centered around the true story of the infamous German hacker Karl Koch, the film captivates as it delves into Koch's life and his fixation on the number 23, believed to hold deep significance. The cinematography skillfully mirrors his descent into madness, using dark, moody palettes to evoke unease.

The lead performance is standout, portraying Koch's unraveling with haunting authenticity. The film effectively blends real historical elements with fictional creativity, making viewers question the line between truth and illusion. The narrative is structured non-linearly, adding layers of complexity that require attentive viewing. As the plot twists and turns, it keeps audiences on edge, reflecting Koch's spiraling obsession.

While some may find the pacing slow at times, the buildup is worth it for the explosive finale, which forces viewers to confront the consequences of unchecked obsession. The film's score enhances the tension, layering sound with stunning visuals to create an immersive experience.

"23" ultimately serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of obsession, the impact of technology, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. This thought-provoking film invites viewers to reflect on the numeric patterns that dominate our lives, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

The film brilliantly brings to the forefront various flaws and shortcomings that exist within our judicial system while also emphasizing the important responsibilities we all share as members of society. The climax of the story was so powerful and emotionally charged that it brought me to tears, leaving a lasting impression on my heart. If you are someone who appreciates narratives that have deep roots and are grounded in real-life issues, I strongly encourage you to watch this movie. Initially, it took me a little while to truly connect with the new artists featured in the film and to embark on this journey alongside them. Additionally, the background score and musical pieces incorporated throughout the film are quite impressive and enhance the overall experience. This is undoubtedly a thought-provoking film, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a meaningful cinematic experience.

There are many movies with the concept But 23 stands out as a unique story Telling.

Writing is the heart and then the female lead.

Never any over expression, can watch her screen presence all long.

Male lead becomes actor by the end.

Director has a great vision and it never deviate - that's the best part.

JUST WATCH IT!!!

EXPERIENCE IS GREAT.

There are 100 things to like about and i just said 2/3,,,

Many characters are well written, Just don't understand where the director got them, but there is no scene where someone irritates or dragged unnecessarily.

Crisp screenplay and dialogues...