Saripodhaa Sanivaaram Netflix Review: Worth Watching?

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, Nani’s much-anticipated action thriller, finally debuted on Netflix on September 26, 2024.
The film, released in cinemas just four weeks ago on August 29, 2024, is now available for streaming in five languages: Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. This broadens its reach to a wider audience across India and internationally, making Saripodhaa Sanivaaram accessible to diverse viewers eager to experience Nani’s gripping performance from the comfort of their homes.

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram revolves around the life of Surya, an insurance agent at NLIC, who struggles with severe anger management issues. As a child, Surya promised his mother that he would vent his anger only on one specific day each week, choosing Saturday as it was the day she passed away. As an adult, he meticulously records the names and offences of those who wrong him in a journal and decides if they still deserve his wrath by Saturday. His complex personality is both intriguing and relatable, especially given his strong moral compass and dedication to keeping his promises.

His life intertwines with Charulatha (Kallu), his cousin and childhood love, who returns to the city under a new identity as a constable at the Sokulapalem police station. The town of Sokulapalem is under the oppressive control of a corrupt cop named Dayanand (Daya), who uses his authority to torment innocent residents. As Surya’s Saturday escapades attract attention, he faces the challenge of balancing his violent tendencies, loyalty to his family, and a burgeoning romance with Charulatha.

The action intensifies as Surya is forced to confront Daya, taking on the mantle of a vigilante to protect the residents of Sokulapalem from the officer’s cruelty. The stakes rise when Daya plots to assassinate his brother, Koormanand, a local corporator, and Surya finds himself in the crosshairs of a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

The performances in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram are a major highlight, with Nani delivering a compelling portrayal of a man grappling with his anger and the consequences of his actions. His character’s unique decision to unleash his anger solely on Saturdays makes for an intriguing watch. Nani’s nuanced performance elevates this complex role, earning praise for his versatility and intensity.

SJ Suryah shines as Daya, the ruthless cop with a sarcastic edge. His commanding screen presence and intense dialogue create a formidable antagonist, and his confrontations with Nani are some of the film’s most thrilling moments. The chemistry and tension between these two characters add depth to the narrative, making every face-off a memorable experience.

Priyanka Mohan also delivers a solid performance, though her romantic interactions with Nani are minimal. She effectively portrays the transition from Charulatha to Kallu, making her journey one of the most emotionally engaging aspects of Saripodhaa Sanivaaram.

Supporting actors like Murali Sharma, Sai Kumar, Aditi Balan, and Harshavardhan add layers to the film, though their roles could have been more fleshed out for a more comprehensive experience. Murali Sharma, in particular, shines as a politician, but his character could have benefited from better writing.

One of the most significant technical strengths of Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is the music by Jakes Bejoy. His compositions elevate the emotional and action-packed scenes, creating an atmosphere that complements the film’s intense narrative. The background score enhances Nani’s powerful moments and accentuates the suspense during the film’s climactic sequences.

G. Murali’s cinematography captures the gritty, realistic feel of Sokulapalem, bringing out the raw and chaotic energy of the town. The visuals help establish the tense and oppressive environment in which the story unfolds, contributing to the film’s overall impact.

However, Karthik’s editing could have been tighter, as the film’s extended runtime and sluggish pace, particularly in the first half, might deter viewers who prefer a faster-paced narrative. Vivek Athreya’s direction shows promise, but he could have enhanced the screenplay for more consistent engagement.

• Nani’s performance as Surya is captivating, demonstrating his ability to handle a complex, multi-layered character.
• SJ Suryah’s portrayal of Daya stands out, offering a villain who is both terrifying and sarcastically humorous.
• The musical score by Jake Bejoy adds immense value to the film, heightening the emotional and action-packed moments.
• The chemistry between Nani and Priyanka Mohan is subtle yet effective, bringing warmth to an otherwise intense storyline.

• The first half of the film drags, with excessive focus on character introductions, affecting the overall pace.
• Vivek Athreya’s screenplay could have been tighter, as some scenes feel underdeveloped, and certain character arcs deserve more depth.
• The lengthy runtime might be off-putting to some viewers who prefer a more dynamic narrative.

On the whole, Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is an engaging action drama featuring powerhouse performances from Nani and SJ Suryah. While the slow narrative in parts and the drawn-out first half might be stumbling blocks, the intense confrontations, stellar music, and impressive character portrayals make it a film worth watching. If you’re in the mood for a gripping story of revenge, redemption, and raw emotions, this movie is a solid pick for your weekend entertainment.

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram offers a unique blend of action, drama, and emotion, making it a memorable addition to Nani’s filmography. Its streaming debut on Netflix ensures that more viewers can enjoy this action-packed ride.

If you enjoyed this review, make sure to check out my Review of the Movie Berlin streaming on Zee5 for another thrilling recommendation!

Watch the Trailer Here