Tuesday Feb 12 2008, Hyderabad

Vishaka Express: A thriller but…

Directed by - Vara Mullapudi

Produced by - Chandu

Music by - Vijay Kurakula

Casts - Rajiv Kanakala, Allari Naresh, Preeti, Jhingyani, Sindu Thulani, Kota, Ali, and others.

Banner - Markwell Entertainments

'Visaka Express' - The title suggests an offbeat narration, with a hint of crime and suspense.But in reality, the film's title has very little to do with the story.However, one can easily detect the plot of the movie to Hollywood's yesteryears blockbuster - 'Strangers on a Train(1951). Dr Raja (Rajiv Kanakala) is vexed with his hardcore drunkard father (Kota Srinivasa Rao).He meets a stranger (Allari Naresh) on a train bound for Vizag - Visakha Express.

Free and relaxed in a I class coach, the duo get drunk.The doctor opens his heart to the stranger.A couple of days later, the doctor's father is injured in a hit and run case.Even though the old man is declared safe, within minutes, he dies of poisoning.The blame is put on the doctor, who recollects that he himself prompted his father's murder in the exchange of murder deals.

   Dr Raja suspect the stranger and now, wants to kill the stranger's wife.The doctor realizes that he has slipped into becomming a psychopath; and he involuntarily finds himself in a game, where he should either kill his tormentor or get killed.What happens next is the climax. Allari Naresh gelled with the role in negative shades.He has performed well as a sadist.

Rajiv Kanakala, whose acted well as a short-tempered doctor, and caring son of a drunkard, displayed amazing flexibility and range.Preeti Jhingyani did the role of psychopath's wife.She proves to be the right choice for the role.Sindhu Thulani played a small role.She is glamorous and acted in the sensuous kissing scenes with Rajiv Kanakala.

All  other characters performed OK within their limitations. Story is good, but the screenplay by Chandrasekhar Yeleti and direction by Vara Mullapudi are disappointing.Lack of comedy is a big minus point in the film.Action scenes are well canned.Songs are average.

Vijay Kurakula’s music is racy but his score is not in tune with the scenes sometimes.  The film can be called a time pass thriller but not a spine chilling one.On the whole, the success of this film depends on how the youth audience respond to it.