Jr NTR Shines in Devara: Part 1 – Action Sequences to Break the SS Rajamouli Curse

I’ve been hearing about the so-called “SS Rajamouli curse” for a while now, which claims that any actor who delivers a blockbuster with Rajamouli will see their next film flop at the box office. Although I’m not superstitious, I couldn’t help but worry for Devara Part 1 after watching a YouTube video detailing this theory. Jr NTR is back after his mega-hit RRR, directed by Rajamouli, and let me assure you, based on content alone, Devara is an impressive film that will surely find its audience. Could this be the movie to break the so-called curse?

From the very first frame, Devara Part 1 sets its ambitions high. Sabu Cyril has masterfully crafted a world that feels incredibly real, from the expansive, intimidating seas to the intense ring fights. The color grading of the film deserves special mention as well.

As for the storyline, well, NTR Jr dominates the screen so much that you barely have time to focus on the plot. He’s not just relying on his stardom to carry him through — his performance is nuanced, making every punch and kick look believable. Although this is only my second time seeing him on the big screen after RRR, I can confidently say he knows his craft. Director Koratala Siva taps into the pulse of Tarak’s fans with larger-than-life action sequences. The first half is packed with thrilling elevation scenes, and the pacing up to the intermission is spot on.

The second half starts off strong with the introduction of Janhvi Kapoor’s character, Thangam. Unfortunately, she falls into the conventional “flower pot” role — her main duties include looking pretty, searching for a groom, and dancing in a song before disappearing from the storyline. On the other hand, Zarina Wahab, who plays Devara’s mother, has a far more substantial role and delivers a perfect performance. Films like Devara, which aim to become a franchise, need that emotional depth, similar to what KGF and Baahubali achieved.

The film shifts between the 1980s and 90s, from Mumbai to Ratnagiri in a flashback. NTR Jr’s character, Devara, is a brave heart who helps smuggle arms and ammunition across the sea with his village men. A tragic incident alters Devara’s path, and he vows to protect the seas from future smuggling, much to the annoyance of Bhaira (Saif Ali Khan), who then plots to kill him. The problem arises when the plot becomes too fixated on finding Devara, leading to a dip in engagement. The film abruptly ends after a climactic fight, which feels underwhelming and leaves little curiosity for the second installment.

Saif Ali Khan as the ruthless Bhaira is effective, and his chemistry with NTR Jr adds a lot to the film. Their first hand-to-hand combat is a major highlight, thanks to the brilliant choreography by Peter Hein and team.

Anirudh Ravichander’s music complements the film well, though nothing stands out as a tune you’ll hum after leaving the theater.

To wrap up, Devara Part 1 checks all the boxes for a mass entertainer, but it doesn’t quite spark the curiosity needed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats for Part 2. It lacks the cliffhanger appeal of Baahubali’s infamous “Why did Kattappa kill Baahubali?” moment, and non-NTR fans might not feel compelled to care about the next chapter. Stormy waters may lie ahead