Movie Name : Matka
Release Date :November 14, 2024
Cast : Varun Tej, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Nora Fatehi, Kishore, Naveen Chandra, Ajay Ghosh etc.
Director : Karuna Kumar
Music Director :G. V. Prakash Kumar
Telugumopo.com Rating : 2.25/5
Story:
In Matka, Varun Tej takes on the role of Vasu, a Burmese refugee who arrives in Vizag seeking a fresh start. However, his life takes a dark turn when he is imprisoned on a murder charge, setting him on a path of crime that leads to the creation of a powerful underworld empire. While on a business trip to Mumbai, Vasu discovers the game of Matka and introduces it in Vizag, where it quickly gains popularity. Rising to fame as India’s Matka king, his success soon draws the attention of none other than Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who appoints a CBI officer (played by Naveen Chandra) to bring Vasu to justice. The narrative unfolds as Vasu navigates his newfound power, pitting himself against the law to protect his empire and legacy.
Review:
Varun Tej delivers a dedicated performance in Matka, but his portrayal of an older gangster feels inconsistent at times. His youthful appearance occasionally undermines the character’s credibility, making the transition to a seasoned criminal less convincing.
Meenakshi Chaudhary plays her role competently, but her character lacks the depth needed to make a lasting impact. In contrast, Nora Fatehi’s special appearance provides a much-needed energy boost, with her chemistry with Varun Tej adding an exciting dynamic to the film.
The supporting cast, featuring Naveen Chandra and Ajay Ghosh, also do a good job, but their characters are underdeveloped, limiting their influence on the story and reducing their overall impact.
Matka had the potential to be a thrilling crime drama, but unfortunately, it doesn’t quite live up to expectations, offering a predictable storyline that lacks the excitement needed to captivate viewers.
The screenplay is one of the film’s major weaknesses. It feels uninspired, relying heavily on clichés and predictable plot twists that fail to offer any real surprises. The pacing is uneven, with some scenes dragging on too long, while others rush through key moments without giving them the necessary depth or attention.
Varun Tej delivers a solid performance, but his character feels underdeveloped, making it difficult for the audience to truly connect with him. While his portrayal is competent, it lacks the complexity that could have turned his role into something more compelling. The supporting cast does an adequate job, but none of the characters manage to leave a lasting impression.
Technically, Matka doesn’t make a strong impact. GV Prakash Kumar’s music fails to complement the film’s tone, and the editing feels disjointed, with unnecessary scenes slowing down the film’s overall pace. In the end, Matka doesn’t succeed as a gripping crime drama, missing the intensity and intrigue that would have made it stand out.
Matka is a film that delivers a mix of fleeting thrills but ultimately remains bogged down by a predictable and familiar plot. Despite its shortcomings, Varun Tej’s earnest performance provides the only real spark in this otherwise average period drama. His dedication to the role is evident, but the film’s lack of fresh elements leaves it feeling underwhelming.
