Rating:2/5
Amidst the buzz of Tollywood’s latest sensation, “Maya Petika,” Payal Rajput takes center stage, gracing the silver screen with her undeniable charisma. Gifted a luxurious smartphone by a generous producer, Payal’s world takes an intriguing turn when she decides to pass it on to her assistant. What unfolds next is a riveting tale of fate and fortunes as the smartphone embarks on a remarkable journey, finding its way into the hands of diverse individuals across different walks of life. With each possessor, the device weaves a tapestry of experiences – some enchanting, some haunting – leaving us to ponder if it is a boon or a bane.
The visionary director, Ramesh Raparthi, deserves accolades for crafting a fresh and intriguing concept that explores the mysterious connections formed by this enigmatic smartphone. With his pen and camera, he unfurls a captivating saga that intertwines the lives of Payal Rajput, Viraj Ashwin, and Simrat Kaur, all of whom deliver commendable performances, leaving a lasting impact.
In this poignant tale, Srinivasa Reddy’s emotional bond with his adorable pet monkey, Jyothi, tugs at heartstrings, while Sunil and Shyamala leave us in splits with their impeccable comic timing. The movie’s theme is ingeniously connected with the innovative Instagram-style beginning titles, forging an instant rapport with the audience.
However, as we traverse the journey of “Maya Petika,” it becomes evident that despite its promising concept, the film falters in presenting an entirely engaging narrative. Certain segments, though promising, suffer from unnecessary prolongation, which may dampen the viewing experience. A tighter screenplay, especially in the middle-class life portrayal of Sunil and the love story of Viraj Ashwin, could have magnified the movie’s impact.
While the humor sprinkled throughout evokes laughter, it occasionally strays into unsuitable territory, making the comedy less inclusive for all audiences. The emotional arc of Payal Rajput’s character holds potential, yet it misses an opportunity to keep viewers gripped to the edge of their seats.
Moreover, a minor plot hole arises as characters in the movie casually part ways with their phones, leaving behind personal data, an aspect that could have been better addressed.
Technically, Ramesh Raparthi’s prowess as a writer shines through, but as a director, he misses the mark, making “Maya Petika” fall short of its full potential. Guna Balasubramanian’s melodious tunes and Suresh Ragutu’s visual finesse contribute to the film’s overall ambiance. However, a few unnecessary scenes could have been trimmed by the editing team to enhance the viewing experience.
In conclusion, while “Maya Petika” delivers a few moments of delight, it falls short of becoming a cinematic marvel. A stronger storyline and more focused screenplay might have elevated the movie to a higher plane. Though marked by moments of humor and Srinivas Reddy’s heartfelt portrayal, the film lacks the novelty to command undivided attention. For this weekend’s cinematic escapade, it is advised to explore other captivating options and embark on an unforgettable journey at the movies.
