I never imagined a day where I’d buy ticket in black to watch Sharwanand’s movie. I don’t think even he would have dreamt of this day (let’s be honest) where he would come across Housefull boards all over. But, here it is…
Having enjoyed a couple of Sujeeth’s short films in the past, I was eager to watch this film. Run Raja Run tells the story of Raja, a happy-go-lucky dumb guy who falls in love with police commissioner’s daughter. Add to this a parallel story of major kidnaps happening in the city. Instead of making a pure comic thriller in a subtle manner, Sujeeth chose to add all the regular masala required for a Telugu commercial film. While this hampers the pace of the film on most occasions (unnecessary songs, comedy tracks), he stills manages to hold the film together. The first half was pure fun and thoroughly enjoyable. However, the second half could have been handled better. The fierce commissioner turns out to be a joker in the latter half thanks to some uncanny characterization, and this to be a major flaw of the movie. That apart, the direction is pretty neat in general. The screenplay though could have been better, especially towards the climax.
Sharwanand is very good in the lead role. You needed someone who could ooze out innocence for this role, and he happened to be the perfect fit. His comic timing turned out to be bang on. Seerath Kapoor is cute as the leading lady. Sampath Raj had an important role to play and he does justice to an extent (but for the latter half where he loses it because of the characterization). Adivi Sesh is decent, while rest of the cast is alright. Vidyullekha Raman was trying too hard to ape Urvashi.
Music by Ghibran is alright. While a couple of songs are hummable, most of them act like speed-breakers to the film’s pace. Editing by Madhu is neat while cinematography by Madhi is of top-notch quality. The entire film is very colorful and has a jolly feel to it.
Is it worth your time and money??: While it could have been better, Run Raja Run is still a good film. After Oohalu Gusagusalade, it’s another must watch small film.
Worth mention: The first kidnap, and most of the dialogues.
Acting: 8/10
Story-Screenplay-Direction: 7.5/10
Technical Aspects: 8/10
Verdict: 7.5/10
