Genelia stands out in 'Naa Ishtam' (Telugu Movie Review)

Film: 'Naa Ishtam'; Cast: Rana Daggubati, Genelia D'Souza, Harshavardhan Rane, Nasser, Brahmanandaam, Ali, Raghubabu; Director: Prakash Tholeti; Producer: Paruchuri Kiriti; Composer: Chakri; Camera: Venkat Prasad; Rating: **

'Naa Ishtam', which is Rana Daggubati's first full-length commercial film with fights and dances, suffers from same inadequacies seen in big budget commercial Telugu films. It is made with regular masala elements.

'Naa Ishtam' not only has a weak plot and an outdated story line, it is also a predictable and average fare. The film is another proof of mediocrity prevailing in the Telugu film industry, which is known for repeating tried and tested formulae.

Young director Prakash Tholeti could have banked upon an innovative script for the film knowing Rana's talent. But 'Naa Ishtam' does not move an inch from the set pattern of Telugu commercial potboilers.

Set in Malaysia, the story starts by introducing Ganesh (Rana), a self-seeker. He will do anything to earn money.

Krishnaveni (Genelia D'Souza), who is in love with Kishore (Harshavardhan Rane), elopes to Malaysia to meet her fiance, but does not find him there.

A selfish Ganesh brings her back to India and hands her over to her father Naidu who does not approve his daughter's relationship with Kishore.

Later Ganesh realises his mistake and takes Krishnaveni back to Malaysia. His action irks Naidu family and Kishore. Of course, his heroics are the final winner of this predictable story.

It is bubbly Genelia who is the star of the show. Despite having a lesser space to perform, the young actress brightens up the screen whenever the camera focuses on her.

Rana, who plays a larger than life hero, gets a lot of space to show his talent in the gymnastics and dancing. He is good in some comedy sequences.

Brahmanandam's comedy is good, but Nasser's role suffers on account of weak characterisation. Harshavardhan impresses. Ali and Raghubabu bring in a few laughs.

Chakri's composition is good with some hummable songs already on charts. Cameraman Venkat Prasad's work is effective.

'Naa Ishtam' is a regular commercial film, but its weak script hammers you down.

Watch it if you have no other alternative for the festival weekend