Game Changer director Shankar’s most anticipated film of the year, brings together the visionary director with the charismatic Ram Charan. With high expectations riding on its shoulders, the movie offers moments of brilliance but falters in key areas, leaving fans with mixed emotions.
Time to pose the important question – Is it time for Shankar to look for new writers or retire?
First Half: A Nostalgic Throwback
The first half of Game Changer reminds audiences of Shankar’s glory days with films like Oke Okkadu and Bharateeyudu. The storytelling, infused with Shankar’s signature touch, blends social commentary with mass entertainment. Ram Charan shines in these moments, showcasing his impeccable style, comedy timing, and energetic dance moves. The college scenes evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of his earlier roles in movies like Bruce Lee.
The introduction song, however, feels lackluster despite its grandeur. While Ram Charan dances with his usual flair, the background dancers standing still in elaborate costumes make the sequence feel awkward rather than impressive. Despite these hiccups, the first half succeeds in building anticipation, particularly with impactful dialogues and a storyline that critiques corruption in the system.
Second Half: A Downward Spiral
The second half introduces a flashback sequence, a staple in Shankar’s storytelling. While the dialogues in this segment are powerful, the plot lacks the depth and intensity needed to elevate the narrative. Unlike Shankar’s Aparichitudu, which delivered a scathing critique of corruption, Game Changer falls short in its execution. The flashback feels routine, and once it concludes, the story veers into a directionless and senseless path. The lack of strong character motivations further diminishes the film’s impact.
Performances and Highlights
Ram Charan delivers a solid performance, particularly in the first half, where his charm and energy are on full display. SJ Suryah steals the show with his electrifying performance, proving once again that he’s a powerhouse of talent. Kiara Advani and Anjali add value to the film with commendable performances.
The film does succeed in shedding light on the roles of IAS officers and Chief Election Commissioners, presenting their duties in an engaging manner. This aspect stands out as a significant positive in an otherwise inconsistent narrative.
Music and Technical Aspects
Thaman’s music is a major highlight, with the DHOP song standing out for its infectious beats. The background score complements the film’s dramatic moments, though it occasionally overpowers subtle scenes.
On the technical front, the grandeur of Shankar’s vision is evident, but the execution feels uneven. The screenplay struggles to maintain coherence, particularly in the second half, where the lack of a strong central theme becomes evident.
Box Office and Market Reception
Despite the film’s scale and star power, Game Changer has witnessed low openings in the US, a concerning trend for Shankar. Following the lukewarm reception of Indian 2 and the absence of a compelling trailer for Game Changer, the film struggled to generate significant pre-release buzz overseas. This reflects a decline in Shankar’s once-robust market, highlighting the need for fresh and impactful writing after the loss of his long-time collaborator, Sujatha Rangarajan.
Game Changer Review – Final Verdict
Game Changer is a mixed bag. It offers glimpses of Shankar’s brilliance but lacks the substance and cohesiveness of his earlier works. Ram Charan’s performance and the first half are definite highlights, but the film’s second half and underwhelming flashback dilute its overall impact.
For fans of Shankar and Ram Charan, Game Changer is worth a watch for its high points, but it might leave them yearning for the magic of their past masterpieces.
