Manu 2018 Telugu Movie Review: Manu (2018) is a visually immersive Telugu indie film directed by Phanindra Narsetti. It stands out for its experimental storytelling, artistic cinematography, and unconventional narrative. But does it succeed in engaging the audience? Let’s dive into the review.
Table of Contents
Movie Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Manu |
| Director | Phanindra Narsetti |
| Genre | Mystery, Romance, Thriller |
| Language | Telugu |
| Release Year | 2018 |
| Runtime | 2 hours 54 minutes |
| Lead Cast | Raja Goutham, Chandini Chowdary |
| IMDb Rating | 7.9/10 |
Plot Summary of Telugu Movie Review
The film revolves around Manu (Raja Goutham) and Neela (Chandini Chowdary), whose lives are interwoven by love, mystery, and destiny. The story unfolds in a nonlinear fashion, revealing deep character layers and psychological depth. As secrets unravel, the film takes the audience on a hypnotic journey of emotions and suspense.
Strengths of Manu
1. Cinematography & Visual Brilliance
- Manu is a treat for cinephiles who appreciate art-house cinema.
- The lighting, color grading, and set design create a dreamy and surreal atmosphere.
2. Unconventional Narrative
- The film does not follow a typical commercial format.
- Nonlinear storytelling keeps the audience guessing and engaged.
3. Performance & Characterization
- Raja Goutham delivers a nuanced performance.
- Chandini Chowdary impresses with her emotional depth.
4. Background Score & Sound Design
- Naresh Kumaran’s music enhances the film’s mood.
- The sound design plays a crucial role in building tension.
Weaknesses of Manu 2018 Telugu Movie Review
1. Slow-Paced Narrative
- The film is nearly 3 hours long, which may feel dragged out for some viewers.
2. Limited Commercial Appeal
- The movie caters more to niche audiences who love experimental cinema.
3. Complex Storytelling
- Requires patience and keen observation to understand the depth of the plot.
Audience Reception & IMDb Rating
| Platform | Rating |
|---|---|
| IMDb | 7.9/10 |
| BookMyShow | 82% Likes |
| Google Reviews | 4.2/5 |
Final Verdict
Overall Rating: 3.8/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Manu is an artistic and bold film that challenges the norms of Telugu cinema. It’s not for everyone, but for those who appreciate experimental storytelling, deep symbolism, and poetic visuals, this is a must-watch.
Who Should Watch?
✔️ Fans of slow-burn thrillers and art films
✔️ Cinephiles who enjoy symbolism and abstract narratives
✔️ Lovers of mystery and psychological dramas
Who Might Skip?
❌ Viewers looking for fast-paced entertainment
❌ Those who prefer commercial masala films