Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Director Sekhar Kammula, a filmmaker celebrated for his heartwarming love stories and sensitive dramas, takes a daring leap into uncharted territory with Adds. Teaming up with national award-winning actor Dhanush and superstar Nagarjuna, Kammula swaps romance for a raw, intense political thriller set against the grim backdrop of Mumbai’s slums. The result is an ambitious and powerful film anchored by a phenomenal lead performance, even if it occasionally struggles under the weight of its own scope.

The story plunges us into the labyrinthine alleys of Dharavi, where Kubera (Dhanush) lives a life of poverty and anonymity. His world collides with that of the immensely powerful and corrupt politician Mahendra (Nagarjuna Akkineni) and the ruthless antagonist Victor (Jim Sarbh). What begins as a story of survival soon spirals into a high-stakes battle for power, exposing a deep-rooted conspiracy and the exploitation of the poor. The film explores how a common man is drawn into a dangerous game where money, power, and politics intersect.

The film’s undisputed greatest strength is Dhanush. In a role that feels tailor-made for his immense talent, he delivers a career-defining performance. His physical transformation, nuanced body language, and impeccable dialogue delivery are breathtaking. He single-handedly carries the narrative, making Kubera’s struggle feel visceral and real. This is Dhanush’s one-man show, and he is nothing short of brilliant.

Sekhar Kammula deserves immense credit for stepping out of his comfort zone. He successfully crafts a dark, atmospheric world, with Niketh Bommi’s cinematography authentically capturing the grit and grime of the setting. The first half is particularly strong, building suspense and establishing the complex characters effectively, leading to a powerful interval. The background score by Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) perfectly complements the film’s intense and somber tone.

However, the film is not without its flaws. After a riveting first half, the narrative momentum slows down in the second act. Some emotional scenes don’t land with the intended impact, and the screenplay feels stretched in places. While Rashmika Mandanna delivers a decent performance as Mandakini, her character feels underdeveloped and doesn’t get enough screen time to make a significant impression. The climax, while functional, could have been more explosive to match the film’s early intensity.

Verdict: Adds is a bold and compelling cinematic experience that succeeds on the strength of its ambition and its lead actor. It is a must-watch for Dhanush’s towering performance and for witnessing a talented director bravely reinvent himself. Go in expecting a serious, raw, and gritty drama, not a typical commercial entertainer, and you will be rewarded.

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