An outdated theme

‘Erra Bassu’ is inordinately long and rather outdated in terms of theme. Though the theme of the grandfather-grandson may strike a chord with a few today (given the fact of nuclear families) and one can perhaps laud them for attempting it, it could have been certainly done with some better vision, and treatment instead of the stereotypical rural man in an urban milieu and his behaviour.

Rajesh (Vishnu Manchu), a software engineer working in a company, like every young lad aspires to go to the US. His paths cross with Raji (Catherine Tresa), a doctor. While Rajesh falls in love with her instantly it takes a while for Raji to reciprocate. Rajesh invites his grandfather (Dasari Narayana Rao) to Hyderabad from his village to spend time with him before he departs to US. The story, then, is all about the grandfather-grandson relationship. There are a series of clichéd incidents portrayed in the film. Rustic and yet humane the grandfather who creates trouble initially slowly makes a place for himself in the apartment complex and also with Wiru (Raghu Babu). Raji, somehow, feels the grandfather is a thorn in between Rajesh and herself.

While the theme may be a lesson to today’s younger generation, the inordinate length of the film is a deterrent. So also is the ‘regressive’ nature of the subject which has been much seen before. The film could have done away with some of the ‘inane’ scenes, particularly revolving around the character of the doctor played by Shankar Melkote. The treatment seemed too hackneyed and the film to a large extent looked dated - what was perhaps in vogue two-three decades ago. For a largely urban audience sitting through, such a film may be rather excruciating in today’s times.

There is no doubt that Dasari Narayana Rao put in a fine performance and easily slipped into the role of the grandfather. His acting abilities are well-known and he further proved that with this sentimental yet humane performance. Vishnu Manchu complimented Dasari well. He brought out the required emotions needed for each and every occasion. Catherine played her part well. Brahmanandam and Ali didn’t have much to do in the film.

If the aim was to bring forth the value systems and morals in a society, the film does well on this ground. But also given the rapid change of tastes in terms of cinema one has to see how the audience accepts this rather outdated subject. The duo of Dasari and Vishnu Manchu has worked hard on this film but will it work in their favour? Only time will tell.

• Tittle :Erra Bassu
• Cast :Dasari Narayan Rao, Vishnu Manchu and Catherine Tresa
• Direction :Dasari Narayan Rao
• Genre :Drama
• Rating :**
• Like :Dasari and Vishnu’s acting
• Unlike :Running time and ‘moralistic’