In recent times, convoluted screenplay-driven films have become the new norm, with Vivek Athreya’s Saripodhaa Sanivaaram being a prime example. Similarly, Hasith Goli, a contemporary and former colleague of Athreya, also known for his witty and unique screenplays, has delivered another fresh and engaging film with SWAG, much like his previous success with Raja Raja Chora.
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By not giving away any spoilers (and I even recommend watching the movie without checking the trailers or promos), let’s start with the positives. The storyline is unique, unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Writer-director Hasith Goli deserves credit for crafting a narrative that doesn’t follow any familiar patterns, and by blending elements of thriller, comedy, and societal and discussion-worthy themes like gender equality and more, Goli masterfully packages his 160-minute film, tying everything together seamlessly.
Sree Vishnu delivers what is easily the best performance of his career, portraying a wide range of characters with such variety that it’s hard to keep track. His ability to bring uniqueness to each role is remarkable, but equal credit goes to Hasith Goli, who manages to extract something distinct from every character. Vishnu’s portrayal of SI Bhavabuti, in particular, stands out with depth and nuance—a quality that felt somewhat lacking in Jr NTR’s performance in Devara.
Ritu Varma shines in her role as the female lead, with both her characters carrying significant weight, particularly Anubuthi, who enjoys a well-developed character arc. Meera Jasmine, still radiating the charm of her early 20s, steals the show with her innocent yet endearing performance. The supporting cast, including Ravi Babu and Goparaju Ramana, contribute effectively, delivering solid comedic moments whenever they’re on screen, adding to the film’s overall genre appeal.
Despite its strengths, SWAG is a dense film that feels convoluted from start to finish. The multitude of characters and overlapping timelines can make it a bit confusing to follow at times. However, as the second half unfolds, the pace slows down, allowing the narrative to settle amidst the complexity. Furthermore, while the film’s message towards the end may come across as slightly preachy, it’s commendable that the director made significant efforts to build towards that point rather than delivering an abrupt message.
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Overall, SWAG stands out with its fresh approach, seamlessly blending comedy and thrill, complemented by Hasith Goli’s adept direction and Vivek Sagar’s impressive score. Sree Vishnu delivers an exceptional “once-in-a-lifetime” performance that perfectly showcases his remarkable acting skills. Although some aspects of the film can be overly intricate, the filmmakers deserve credit for tackling a bold subject and presenting something unique, especially for a People Media Factory production. It’s a must-see in theaters.
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