Akkada Ammayi Ikkada Abbayi, a Telugu romantic comedy directed by Nithin and Bharath, was released in theaters on April 11, 2025. The film, starring Pradeep Machiraju, who is known as a popular TV anchor, stars debutant Deepika Pilli along with a team of comedians like Satya, Getup Srinu and Vennela Kishore. Although it borrows the title from Pawan Kalyan's debut film in 1996, the film offers a new story set in a quaint village called Bhairi Lanka. The 2-hour-27-minute dull film promises a mix of rural charm, comedy and romance. But, does it deliver? Let's move on to the review.
Plot
The story begins in a village called Bhairi Lanka on the Andhra-Tamil Nadu border. Here, a strange tradition says that Raja Kumari (Deepika Pilli), the only girl born after 60 consecutive male births, is the key to the prosperity of the village. The village elders decide that she should marry one of the 60 eligible young men and not leave the village. This is where Krishna (Pradeep Machiraju), a civil engineer from Hyderabad, enters with a strange mantra of "I will not help anyone". A series of humorous and romantic events begins when Krishna, who has come to the village as part of the work of constructing toilets, encounters Raja Kumari. The story revolves around whether their love can overcome the village rules and what will happen to the 60 young men who compete for the hand of marriage.
Acting
Pradeep Machiraju, who is known for his energetic style on television, brings a familiar charm to the role of Krishna but fails to elevate the character beyond routine punchlines. Critics have noted that while he handles comedy well, the script does not give him a chance to showcase his acting skills. Debutante Deepika Pilli is visually appealing as Raja Kumari but her role is not used much as it lacks depth or independence. The real highlight is the comedians: Satya and Getup Srinu bring in laughs in the first half with their precise timing and quirky antics. Vennela Kishore makes a small appearance in the second half and adds the necessary excitement, while seniors like Brahmanandam and Rohini are limited to ordinary roles.
Direction and Screenplay
Nithin and Bharath aim to deliver a light, cheerful entertainer, and the first half succeeds largely with an unconventional plot and situational comedy. The rural setting, filled with exaggerated patriarchy, is set in a satirical manner, but the directors fail to fully embrace this absurdity or mold it into a memorable mess. The screenplay falters in the second half, with uneven pacing, predictable conflicts, and a dull climax that dilutes the promise of the first half. Critics have noted that the story feels like a drawn-out skit, that most of the songs become speed breakers, and that the logical inconsistencies become apparent when the comedy subsides.
Technical aspects
The film's technical aspects yield mixed results. M.N. Balreddy's cinematography captures the beauty of rural life colorfully and engagingly. Radhan's music is listenable but not memorable, and the background score also fails to make a strong impact. Kodati Pawan Kalyan's editing, especially in the second half, could have been stronger. The production design by Asishteja Pulala effectively brings out the quaintness of the village, adding to the rural appeal of the film.
Strengths
First half comedy: Satya and Getup Srinu's comedic scenes, with the absurdity of village rules, bring genuine laughs.
Visual appeal: Cinematography and production design create an appealing rural atmosphere.
Light tone: The film has a cheerful vibe, suitable for those looking for light entertainment.
Weaknesses
Weak second half: The story loses momentum after the interval, with repetitive humor and a simple climax.
Underdeveloped romance: The chemistry between Pradeep and Deepika is dull without depth.
Wasted satirical opportunities: Despite the opportunity to satirize rural traditions in the plot, it settles for safe, predictable humor.
Conclusion
Akkad Aamiya Aamiya Abhi starts off well and falters in execution. It offers simple entertainment for those who enjoy rural comedies and don't mind the logical fallacies. Satya and Getup Srinu's humor, colorful scenes are the film's strengths, but weak romance, a dragged-out second half, and untapped satirical opportunities hold it back. Adopting the title of Pawan Kalyan's debut film evokes nostalgia, but the film fails to live up to that legacy. If you're looking for a light laugh with friends, this is a simple film worth watching once—don't set your expectations too high.
Rating: 2.5/5
Recommendation: Watch for the humor and rural vibe, but don't expect a memorable rom-com.