Nayaki

Nayaki is a 2016 Indian Telugu-language retro horror comedy film which manages to integrate elements of suspense, horror, humor, and a dash of romance to deliver an entertaining cinematic experience. Directed by Govi, it features a star-studded cast including Trisha Krishnan, Ganesh Venkatraman, and Satyam Rajesh. The film was dubbed and released in Tamil, marking Trisha's 50th film.

Nayaki opens with the story of Gayathri, played by Trisha Krishnan, who is shown as an ambitious woman from the 1980s era with dreams of becoming a successful actress in Telugu cinema. Her vibrant dreams, aspirations and passion are skillfully depicted in the early sequences of the narrative. Trisha, who exudes the charm of a 1980s leading lady, with her acting prowess, brings a sense of authenticity and believability to the character of Gayathri.

Gayathri falls in love with an equally ambitious Sanjay (Ganesh Venkatraman). The couple shares the same dreams and struggles to make it big in the film industry. However, little does Gayathri know of the sinister, uncanny shadows lurking behind the glitz and glamour of the film industry. The twist and turns, which follow, forms the crux of the story.

As the narrative proceeds, the film seamlessly shifts to the present day, presumably decades after the events which unfolded in Gayathri's life. This narrative transition features Satyam Rajesh and his friends, who encounter the abandoned bungalow where Gayathri once lived. As they commence their misadventures in this “haunted” house, they inadvertently unveil the dark truth behind the mysterious house. Coupled with comic elements, the events which follow maintain the suspense and intrigue around the primary plot.

Ganesh Venkatraman, who plays Sanjay, gives a commendable performance. His character is finely etched, depicting the simplistic essence of an aspiring actor from the 1980s. The chemistry between Trisha and Ganesh adds to the movie's overall appeal. They manage to capture the innocence and purity of a bygone era in their romance, making for delightful viewing.

Satyam Rajesh essays his role with remarkable ease, injecting humor and light-heartedness into the narrative. His comic timing impeccably balances the eerie feel of the movie, offering the viewers a unique blend of horror-comedy. The sequences involving him and his friends create a sense of thrill and fun, engaging the audience thoroughly throughout the film.

The film also features supporting roles by Jayaprakash, Kovai Sarala, and Brahmanandam. They contribute significantly to the narrative, enriching the film with their impactful performances. Their masterful acting skills complement the primary characters, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.

The technical aspects of Nayaki are praiseworthy. The film's music by Raghu Kunche sets a perfect backdrop for the narrative. From soulful melodies to peppy tracks, the music blends seamlessly with the storyline, contributing significantly to its nostalgic feel. The cinematography by Jagadeesh Cheekati captures the essence of the period setting to the tee. The choice of locations, sets, and costumes mirror the era, making the viewing experience more realistic and immersive.

The film, unarguably, stands out for its out-of-the-box concept. The unique blend of horror, comedy, and romance sets it apart from conventional horror films. The director, Govi, deserves applause for his bold attempt. While maintaining the horror element, he has also brought in humor and romance, creating a unique narrative that engages the audience. The movie's screenplay is tightly woven, with every scene leading up to the premise without any deviation.

Overall, Nayaki is a cinematic treat that's likely to keep audiences glued to their seats with its intriguing narrative, exceptional performances, and unexpected comic interludes. With a fresh twist on the horror-comedy genre and an engaging storyline, the film promises an enchantingly eerie time at the movies. The film's charm lies in its quirky narrative style, sharp wit, and nuanced performances that allow the audience to immerse themselves in this implausible yet engaging horror-comedy.