The much-anticipated Telugu film “Bro – The Avatar,” featuring the uncle-nephew duo Pawan Kalyan and Sai Dharam Tej, has left audiences disappointed, despite relying heavily on nostalgia and star power. Director Samuthirakani, known for the Tamil original “Vinodhaya Sitham,” adapted the plot to suit the personas of Pawan Kalyan and Sai Dharam Tej, with Trivikram Srinivas contributing to the screenplay and dialogues. However, the film failed to deliver fresh standout moments, ultimately resulting in a lackluster experience akin to a boring soap opera.
The core plot of the movie is commendable, revolving around the universal truth that no one is indispensable in life. The story serves as a fable, imparting lessons in humility, making it relevant and appealing to the audience.
Sai Dharam Tej portrays the central character, Markandeyulu, affectionately known as “Mark” by his colleagues and friends. Mark believes he is the best version of himself, always pressed for time, and confident that he knows what’s best. His life takes an unexpected turn when it is abruptly cut short, and he encounters “Titan,” portrayed by Pawan Kalyan, personifying time in a larger-than-life form. “Titan,” referred to as “bro” by Mark, grants him a second chance at life.
The film attempts to capitalize on Pawan Kalyan’s past hits, incorporating references to songs and dialogues from his blockbusters. The introduction of “Titan” cleverly echoes the “power” associated with the “power star” label, and there are nods to various films like “Tholi Prema,” “Khushi,” “Jalsa,” and “Bheemla Nayak.” However, the film lacks enough original moments that could have stood the test of time and become iconic references in the future.
Despite a few enjoyable moments, including foot-tapping songs from “Jalsa” and “Bheemla Nayak,” “Bro – The Avatar” fails to rise above being a mere fan service with occasional references to the star’s political career. The comedic face-off between Pawan Kalyan and Brahmanandam, while fun, lacks the spark witnessed in their previous collaborations.
The first hour of the film focuses on Mark reassessing his perceptions of people at home and work, but the sub-plots and office politics feel predictable and unremarkable. Many supporting actors, including Priya Prakash Varrier, Raja Chembolu, Tanikella Bharani, and Ketika Sharma, are underutilized, and Vennela Kishore’s potential is not fully explored.
Rohini stands out as the one supporting character who leaves an impact, but the film unfortunately sidelines her for a significant portion. The movie’s saving grace lies in the final segments, where Mark gains a fresh perspective on life and engages in a heartfelt conversation with “Titan.”
Both Pawan Kalyan and Sai Dharam Tej deliver expected emotional performances, but they are unable to showcase anything exceptional. The film’s visual effects fall short of expectations, dampening the overall experience.
In comparison, “Gopala Gopala,” where Pawan Kalyan played the role of a god incarnate, proved to be a more entertaining film. “Bro – The Avatar,” an adaptation of “Vinodhaya Sitham,” had potential but failed to utilize it effectively, leaving audiences yearning for more.
In conclusion, “Bro – The Avatar” falls short of meeting expectations and fails to deliver fresh and engaging content, making it a missed opportunity despite having a well-intended story.
