O Malli Review

There is something inherently strong about a subject that revolves around a woman's character.  Usually, such films can abound in cliches, yet one roots for such a story because one feels sympathetic toward the woman in distress. 'O Malli' is one such film.

This film has been directed by Ramya Sri, who has acted in more than 250 films in Telugu, Tamil,Kannada, Malayalam, Hindi and Bhojpuri.  She has written the story, screenplay and dialogues as well. The story revolves around her character.  Malli is troubled by not one but two men in her life.  Her father, played by LB Sriram, is an alcoholic.  Irresponsible and self-centred, he doesn't care for his daughter's well-being.  Already agonized over a broken childhood and adolescence, Malli is forced into a marriage with Ramulayya (Raghu Babu). 

Malli's problems only multiply after the marriage.  Fate has it that Ramulayya becomes physically unfit to work.  Malli has to work and earn a living for herself and her family.  She bumps into Ravi (played by Aakash) and days later, her husband suspects that Malli has an extra-marital affair with Ravi.  This leads to some unexpected consequences.

Ramyasri's screen presence has already taken the movie to the next level.  She is good in her acting.  She does a fine job as a director who makes her actors make the cut.  LB Sriram is a terrific performer and we have known it for long.  He gets into the skin of his character with ease.  On the other hand, Raghu Babu gives his best as an agonized as well as suspicious husband.  Akash is another good performer.

Music is by Sunil Kashyap and it comes with decent takeaways.

On the flip side, there is no scope for laughter.  The movie has been promoted with an eye on a certain section of the audience only.  The story is jaded.

Verdict: An ordinary story that can be watched with low expectations.  Good performances are the saving grace.