Mathu Vadalara (2019): A Gripping Dark Comedy Thriller

October 2016, Hyderabad. 

Three friends live in a dingy apartment that's almost in a muddle. The leaking ceiling, half-ripped posters on the wall, an old Chiranjeevi movie playing on a CRT television, and utensils stacked on one another in a messy kitchen give us a background check on the characters. 

I'm talking about the Telugu-language melodramatic thriller released in 2019 - "Mathu Vadalara," which thematically explores the concept of karma and the repercussions of one's actions. The film touches upon the unpredictability of life, showcasing how a single event can transform a person's entire existence.

Directed by Ritesh Rana, the movie falls under the genre of dark comedy-thriller and has gained considerable acclaim for its unique storytelling, engaging performances, and clever screenplay. The storyline revolves around Babu (Sri Simha), a young, aimless man who stumbles upon a lucrative opportunity to earn quick money. 

Along with his two friends, Yesu (Satya) and Abhi (Naresh Agasthya), Babu becomes involved in a series of events that lead them into a web of chaos and unexpected twists. The non-linear narrative structure adds an element of surprise as the story unfolds unconventionally, revealing crucial details at opportune moments. 

We see a Telugu serial spoof being played at different intervals from the start to the end. It runs like a timestamp used as a storytelling technique to break the flow of the narrative before jumping into another sequence. Although bizarre, the contrast between the artificiality of the serial and the unpredictability of Babu's circumstances highlights the disparity between fantasy and reality. The serial underlines the stark difference between the superficiality of entertainment and the harsh consequences of real-life decisions with the use of parody. 

In fact, this is one of the notable aspects of "Mathu Vadalara", its effective use of dark humor. The film manages to balance comedy and drama, often using humor to alleviate tension and provide relief amidst the characters' intense situations. 

This blend of genres creates a unique viewing experience that entertains the audience. Satya and Naresh Agasthya provide excellent support, infusing their characters with humor and camaraderie. The chemistry between the three friends is believable and adds an authentic touch to the film.

The technical aspects of "Mathu Vadalara" are commendable, contributing to the overall cinematic experience. The film's cinematography effectively captures the gritty and atmospheric tone of the narrative. The use of lighting and color palettes enhances the mood and tension of the scenes. 

One of the strengths of "Mathu Vadalara" is its well-crafted screenplay. The narrative structure keeps the audience engaged from start to finish, gradually unraveling the layers of the story while maintaining an element of suspense. The pacing is just right, allowing ample time for character development while also keeping the plot moving forward. The editing and screenplay deserve a special mention, with the use of different aspect ratios effectively amplifying the suspense and intensity of key sequences. 

Special mention to this interval shot...

and the Man of Steel climax fight reference...

In terms of flaws, "Mathu Vadalara" occasionally suffers from predictability, particularly in certain plot twists. One such scene is the opening sequence, when they introduce Abhi, we see that he's watching an episode of Breaking Bad. The story then goes on a roller coaster ride and brings you to Jubilee Hills Apartments, where you see Ravi wearing a T-shirt that reads "Jab we Meth"...

It doesn't take you long to connect the dots. However, the film compensates for this with its strong storytelling and engaging performances. 

In conclusion, "Mathu Vadalara" is an engaging and well-crafted film that stands out for its unique blend of dark comedy and thrilling storytelling. With a gripping narrative, strong performances, and effective technical elements, it keeps audiences thoroughly entertained and leaves them contemplating the intricacies of human actions.