Even with his Amigos’ dismal performance earlier this year, Kalyan Ram’s performance in Bimbisara last year bodes well for him. The decision to base the film’s plot on a British historical figure has succeeded in building curiosity. Here, Samyuktha offers assistance as well. Producer Abhishek Nama, who stirred controversy by ousting director Navin Medaram from the picture and claiming to be its major architect, is pushing all these issues. Has the risk paid off? See you later.
Devil is primarily about spies and double agents who work for the Indian National Army, which is led by Subhash Chandra Bose, or the British. All of this is happening as the British are putting a lot of effort into apprehending Bose, who is thinking about going back to India. In Rasapadu, a coastal village in the Madras Presidency, a British secret agent by the name of Devil (Kalyan Ram) is supposedly directing a larger operation to investigate the death of a Zamindar’s daughter. This is the drama’s major setting. Ajay, Malavika Nair, Vashistha Simha, Satya, Shafi, Ester, and Samyuktha are among the other interesting characters being portrayed.
Devil takes his time introducing the several players involved in the murder. Without allowing the spectator any opportunity to become involved in the events, the characters are thrown into the plot at random. Together with Satya, the hero enters the scene and subtly piques interest, hinting at a greater drama unfolding.
As a drama within a play, the love angle is imposed upon the narrative. The plot is so multi-layered that it prevents the reader from ever really connecting with the characters. After that, the murder investigation is dropped, and the focus of the movie shifts to the nationalist movement and the fight for freedom. Furthermore, this more expansive viewpoint follows a predictable path, guided by an all-mighty one-man army that will undoubtedly vanquish any oppositional armies.
Not even the pretense of taking history seriously, nor any sense of historical accuracy, exist here. All of it revolves on a standard mass hero going on a rampage in a historical context. In this context, the main characters are all quite slim.
Satya plays about for a little. Sid Sriram sings a good song. Despite being aesthetically out of place in this historical context, a song with Elrom Nourozi is effectively portrayed. Also, the camera work is excellent. Rich production values are present. The producer has invested a good deal of money in the project, but the fundamental idea is not sincere. Despite being credited with the plot, screenplay, and dialogue, Srikanth Vissa falls short. Despite the praise, the directing lacks creativity.
In a picture that lacks depth or creativity, Kalyan Ram is genuine. Samyuktha merely exists as the fictional character. In her little screen time, Malavika Nair makes an impression.
Devil is only for Kalyan Ram enthusiasts.
