Vakeel Saab

Vakeel Saab is a 2021 Indian Telugu-language legal drama film. It's a powerhouse featuring celebrated actors Pawan Kalyan, Nivetha Thomas, and Anjali. This film is a remake of the acclaimed Hindi film "Pink" and stands as a testament to the adage 'justice delayed is justice denied.' It’s theatrical release on 9th April 2021, after a hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, came as a massive visual treat for Telugu movie lovers, especially fans of superstar Pawan Kalyan who returns to cinema after a two-year break.

Vakeel Saab narrates the story of deconstructed protagonist Satyadev (Pawan Kalyan), an advocate who fights against all odds for justice. It's a story strongly tied to the theme of women's rights, consent, and empowerment. Pawan Kalyan, who is prominent in Telugu industry for his charismatic screen presence, appears as a fighter both inside and outside the court. His character is a blend of aggression, emotion, and wit – characteristics that Kalyan carries with panache throughout the film.

In this narrative, his larger-than-life persona fits perfectly. The way he disassembles the legal complexities and fights for justice is truly appealing and adds a fresh dimension to the plot. Despite being a remake, the director, Venu Sri Ram, seamlessly binds Telugu nativity to the script, ensuring it connects with the regional audience.

The female presence in this film is also strong, with Nivetha Thomas, Anjali, and Ananya Nagalla. Each of these actresses have crucial roles in the plot, playing women of courage and resilience. Nivetha Thomas delivers a standout performance, going toe-to-toe with Pawan Kalyan. She dominates the screen with her fierce personality and uncompromising attitude towards justice. Anjali and Ananya, too, make their presence felt with profoundly emotional performances.

The supporting cast, which includes Prakash Raj in a critical role, shines in their respective areas. Both Raj and Kalyan's courtroom escalations are gripping. They manoeuvre through the film's emotional labyrinth with seasoned ease.

Put together by Venu Sriram, the film gets an edge due to its strong narrative backbone and unyielding performances, alongside the invaluable contributions of the music and cinematography departments. The background score by S.Thaman boosts the movie's pace while creating an appropriate mood and setting for each scene. Cinematographer P. S. Vinod equally shares the credit for capturing the city's gritty and surreal aura, painting a visually arresting picture throughout the narrative.

The film’s dialogues speak volumes about women’s rights and the prevailing societal issues. Thought-provoking lines such as - 'No means no' highlight the consent discussions, encapsulating the film's principled message in an impactful manner. Guided by a powerful screenplay, Vakeel Saab delicately balances the tension-filled courtroom drama with the emotional journey of its protagonists.

In the end, Vakeel Saab showcases a classic yet fresh courtroom drama that creates a real-world resonance. It’s a film that brilliantly portrays the loopholes and grey areas of our legal system, while issuing an enlightening message about women’s dignity and consent. With Vakeel Saab, what initially seems like an entertainment-heavy adaptation of a Bollywood courtroom drama actually turns into a socially relevant and impactful film, making it a must-watch. It is a film that perfects the art of blending emotion, action and courtroom drama with a resounding message for society - a message that doesn’t lose its essence despite being told through the lens of commercial cinema.