Shyam Singha Roy is here to stay. Nani comes up with yet another movie which dares to be different. Of course, the concept of a person re-visiting his past isn't new. There's Rajamouli's Magadheera which dealt with the same premise and met with great success. But the characters in Shyam Singha Roy are refreshingly different. An aspiring director, a revolutionary, a devadasi and a very strong independent woman all play their part in making Shyam Singha Roy a memorable outing. Rahul Sankrityan chooses rebels to question the norms. They are people with passion and dreams. They are rebels who want to break free.
A creator accused of plagiarism revisits his past to find the answers. Nani excels as both Vasu and Shyam Singha Roy. His poise and conviction as Shyam Singha Roy is quite admirable. He gives his heart and soul to the film and it shows on screen. Vasu and Shyam Singha Roy are poles apart in terms of characterization but Nani nails both the characters.
And then there is Sai Pallavi who picks up from where she left off in Love Story. She comes up with yet another compelling performance as Mythiri. She's charming, graceful and an absolute stunner when she dances. Avinash Kolla's production design and cinematographer Sanu John Varghese's camera work help to elevate the characters of both Shyam Singha Roy and Mythiri alias Rosie. The West Bengal of the 70's is a sight for sore eyes. Everything about the past is breathtakingly beautiful.
Krithi Shetty too comes across as an embodiment of strength. Wouldn't be surprised if she goes on to become a sought-after heroine in the near future.
Madonna Sebastian too plays her part well. Mickey J Meyer's music too aids the film to a great extent.
Rahul Sankrityan has his heart in the right place and tries to question the age-old practises which have suppressed women time and again. His voice is not without flaws but it is a voice which needs to be heard. He wins us over with impeccable casting especially Nani and Sai Pallavi. Witnessing two actors who know how to dominate the screen is a gift.
The film is not without its share of flaws though. A bit more of Shyam Singha Roy in the first half would have nullified the pacing issues that the film has. The film also contradicts its own progressive thoughts in a lot of places.
Despite these hiccups the film manages to hold your attention. If you had enjoyed Rahul's quirky attempt with a ghostly car you are sure to enjoy Shyam Singha Roy too.