Ajay Bhupathi’s RX 100: What Works, What Doesn’t

RX 100, starring Karthikeya Gummakonda and Payal Rajput and directed by Ajay Bhupathi, is the recent sensation at the Telugu box-office. The events in the male protagonist's life are based on the true story of a 33-year-old man, who passed away in 2014. Staying true to the title, the Yamaha RX 100 bike (the hero's bike) and its unique revving sound are featured prominently in the film.

Plot: Shiva (Karthikeya) is an orphan who works under Vishwanadham (Rao Ramesh), as his man-Friday. Daddy (Ramky) is like Shiva's guardian and caretaker, and is also Vishwanadham's partner. When Vishwanadham's bold and forthright daughter Indu (Payal) falls in love with Shiva, his life is turned upside down. The two share many passionate moments of intimacy but aren't able to get married due to the usual obstacles. While Indu moves on and settles in the US, Shiva is consumed by his love for her. He turns violent and gets addicted to alcohol, cigarettes and weed. There's a twist in the tale at the end with Indu's motives and character driving the story. What happens to Shiva when he finally discovers the truth?

What Works

• RX 100 rises above the usual gangster – love story due to the controversial characterization of the heroine. Payal Rajput is brave to take on such a role in her debut film. She confidently pulls off the intimate scenes with the hero. The director and cinematographer Raam make sure that the scenes of physical intimacy are shot tastefully.
• Karthikeya's vulnerability serves him well in the scenes when Indu makes her advances. His muscular physique and rough, bearded exterior suit the part that he plays. Though the treatment becomes melodramatic and over the top in his climax scenes with Indu, he has emoted well.
• The film is quite scenic and DoP Raam must've had fun capturing all the lush greenery and nature's bounty in the countryside. The director presents the vibrant mood of the countryside and its characters authentically.
• Composer Chaitan Baradwaj gets 7 songs to showcase his talent and the melody numbers ('Reppalaninda', 'Adire Hrudayam', 'Pillaa Raa', 'Rudhiram Marigi'), are particularly impressive.
• Among the other actors, veterans Ramky and Rao Ramesh show their experience. The new actor (part of Daddy's gang) who keeps singing to convey his thoughts, adds the fun element to the proceedings.

What Doesn't

• With a runtime of more than 2 hours 30 mins, the film feels like a stretch. A few of the songs could've been done away with, particularly the quintessential item number featuring glamorous female dancers.
• The raw and violent nature of the film and the characterization of the heroine could alienate a section of viewers.

Final Word: Ajay Bhupathi delivers a sizzling hot gangster – romance story which is targeted at the male youth. The closing revelations and twists in the tale make it more riveting.