Devara Talk – Jr NTR’s collaboration with director Koratala Siva was announced in 2021, well before the release of RRR. However, the filming of their project Devara did not commence until March 2023, largely due to extensive story discussions and script deliberations. Following the underwhelming performance of Acharya, NTR encouraged Koratala to take his time to regain his creative confidence.
The trailer for Devara, which runs for two-and-a-half minutes, was released to considerable anticipation but has received mixed reactions from moviegoers. Despite its visually striking presentation and high-octane action sequences, the trailer did not quite live up to the pan-India hype.
The storyline, involving a Messiah-like figure on a fictional island where Devara is a chieftain and Bhaira his aide. Seems to follow a predictable revenge drama arc with NTR playing dual roles. The plot, centered around a dramatic betrayal and subsequent quest for vengeance, fails to offer a groundbreaking narrative, leaving some fans disappointed.
Familiar Themes and Characterization
The trailer suggests a conventional template with familiar themes of friendship turning into enmity. NTR’s dual roles depict a powerful father and an initially timid son who eventually emerges as a savior. This setup bears similarities to the fictional world of Acharya, where a hero rises to correct wrongs.
Saif Ali Khan’s character in Devara bears a resemblance to Sonu Sood’s role in Acharya, and several scenes evoke memories of the earlier film. The repetitive dialogues about ‘Fear’ and ‘Courage’ lack impact due to their monotony, making the narrative feel less innovative.
Devara Visual Appeal and Anticipation
Though the trailer showcases impressive visuals, particularly with its night shots and sea backdrops, the overall content has not lived up to high expectations. Janhvi Kapoor and other supporting characters have limited screen time, with the focus predominantly on elevating NTR’s roles. Despite the trailer’s shortcomings, the film’s high stakes and big-budget tag maintain a level of anticipation.
The true measure of Devara’s success will depend on its theatrical release and the audience’s reception. As the film progresses towards its release, it remains to be seen if Jr NTR and Koratala Siva can address these concerns and deliver a commercially successful project.