‘Yagnam’ the surprise winner

1. YAGNAM: Despite competition from ‘Sri Anjaneyam’, director Pokuri Baburao’s anger-driven film holds its ground. It is a smashing success in B and C centers. Sword-wielding Gopichand arrives as a new action star and draws crowds. Good music and an enjoyable comedy track back the message against violence, making it a surprise winner of this season.

2. AMMAYI BAGUNDI: This wholesome entertainer, a remake of Tamil hit ‘Partiban Kanavu’, with Sivaji as a lover boy. Has had a good opening. It has opened the doors for novel themes in Telgu filmdom. Meera Jasmine’s performance in two roles has drawn much appreciation. Srilekha’s music is a bonus.

3. SRI ANJANEYAM: The much-awaited socio-fantasy from ace director Krishna Vamsi has opened to extraordinary collections, the crowds are thinning down. Over-dependence on graphics and technical values is the film’s drawback.

4.. SAMBA: NTR Jr.’s roaring performance has sustained the film. But it is not going to break records as expected earlier. The repetitive backdrop (factional feuds) scuttled its chances of making it as a highest Telugi grosser ever. Director Vinayak rehashes his earlier hit ‘Aadi’, but the audiences are shrewd enough to see through this.

5. ARYA: The film is doing well in selected pockets and expected to cross the 100-day mark comfortably. Allu Arjun arrives with his second hit and his dancing has great appeal. Director Sukumar’s narration holds the interest of the audiences. Deviprasad’s songs have become all the rage.