Lineman Review

Line Man unfolds in a rural village where the villagers make a peculiar decision regarding electricity, setting the stage for a captivating narrative directed by V. Raghu Shastry. The story delves into the repercussions of this decision and the pivotal role played by the Line Man, weaving together a tale that is both intriguing and thought-provoking.

Story:

In the quaint village of Sattipalli, Telangana, Nattu, known as Natraj (Thrigun), serves as the dedicated lineman. Inspired by the remarkable Devudamma (B. Jayashree), who has helped countless women deliver babies naturally and painlessly, Nattu persuades the villagers to celebrate her upcoming 100th birthday.

As the village buzzes with preparations for the joyous occasion, they are suddenly confronted with a peculiar problem that threatens to disrupt the festivities. The unfolding events and the villagers' response to this challenge form the crux of the story, leading to a heartwarming and engaging narrative that explores the resilience and unity of a community in the face of adversity.

Analysis:

Thrigun makes his Sandalwood debut in Line Man, offering a natural and composed performance that suits the character of a lineman. However, the role fails to showcase his full potential, often leaving him overshadowed by other actors who take center stage.

Despite featuring many unknown faces from Sandalwood, the cast delivers commendable performances, bringing authenticity to their roles. Actors like Kaajal Kunder, B. Jayashree, Harini Shreekanth, and others excel in portraying their characters with sincerity and natural flair.

Director Raghu Shastry's choice of a familiar storyline and his exploration of themes such as the impact of mobile phones on family life and the plight of birds affected by electric poles add depth to the narrative. However, the film's lack of twists and its routine and monotonous storytelling style prevents it from truly resonating with viewers. A stronger focus on screenplay and script could have elevated the emotional content and made a significant difference in the overall impact of the film.

Manikanth's music blends well with the story, enhancing the film's mood and tone. The background score is adequate, but Raghunatha's editing leaves much to be desired, with repetitive scenes that slow down the narrative pace. Shanti Sagar's cinematography captures the scenic beauty effectively, adding to the film's visual appeal. Overall, the production values are decent, but improvements in editing and storytelling could have made "Line Man" a more engaging cinematic experience.

Verdict:

Line Man, featuring Thrigun and directed by Raghu Shastry, has a promising premise that explores a meaningful theme. However, the film's slow pacing becomes a major drawback, testing the patience of viewers and detracting from their overall enjoyment. The movie struggles to establish a strong emotional connection with its audience, ultimately missing the mark in delivering a deeply resonant experience.