“Hathya” (2025) is a Telugu-language political crime thriller directed by Srividya Basawa. The film delves into the intricate world of political intrigue and murder, drawing inspiration from real-life events, notably the 2019 murder of Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy. Released on January 24, 2025, the movie features Dhanya Balakrishna, Ravi Varma, and Pooja Ramachandran in pivotal roles.

Plot Overview

The narrative centers around the murder of J.C. Dharmendra Reddy, a wealthy and influential politician portrayed by Ravi Varma. Following his death, Chief Minister Kiran Reddy (Bharath Reddy) assigns the investigation to IPS officer Sudha Rao, played by Dhanya Balakrishna. As Sudha delves deeper into the case, she uncovers a complex web of relationships, financial troubles, and family disputes, leading to a series of twists and turns that keep the audience engaged.

Performances

Dhanya Balakrishna delivers a commendable performance as the determined and sharp investigator, Sudha Rao. While initially her portrayal might seem unconventional given her previous roles, she gradually embodies the character’s resilience and dedication. Ravi Varma excels as the controversial politician Dharmendra Reddy, bringing depth and nuance to his role. Pooja Ramachandran, though in a brief role as Salima, leaves a lasting impact with her performance.

Direction and Screenplay

Director Srividya Basawa skillfully intertwines real-life events with fictional storytelling, creating a narrative that is both compelling and thought-provoking. The screenplay maintains a steady pace, with the first half setting up the characters and the second half intensifying the suspense. However, certain subplots, particularly a romantic angle in the latter part, may feel slightly out of place and could have been more seamlessly integrated.

Technical Aspects

The film’s technical elements significantly enhance its storytelling. Abhiraj Nair’s cinematography captures the dark and intense atmosphere befitting a crime thriller. Naresh Kumaran’s background score effectively amplifies the tension, although some critics feel it could have offered more depth. Anil Kumar’s editing is competent, but there are moments where a tighter cut could have improved the narrative flow.

Themes and Real-Life Parallels

While “Hathya” is presented as a work of fiction, its parallels to the Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy murder case are evident. The film explores themes of political corruption, familial discord, and the quest for power, providing a commentary on the darker facets of political life. This alignment with real events adds a layer of authenticity, though it may also lead to predictability for viewers familiar with the actual case.

Audience Reception

The film has garnered a mixed response from audiences. On platforms like BookMyShow, viewers have praised its direction, screenplay, and performances, with many highlighting it as a “blockbuster” and “well-made” movie. However, some critiques point to a lack of a strong supporting cast and a slightly prolonged narrative as areas needing improvement.

Conclusion

“Hathya” stands out as a compelling political crime thriller that adeptly balances suspense and drama. Despite minor shortcomings, such as occasional narrative detours and a somewhat predictable storyline for those familiar with the real-life events, the film offers a gripping portrayal of political intrigue and the complexities of power dynamics. For viewers interested in crime thrillers with a political backdrop, “Hathya” proves to be a worthwhile watch.

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