"Thandel," directed by Chandoo Mondeti, was expected to be a gripping love story with patriotic elements, based on a real-life incident from 2018. With Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi in the lead roles, the film had generated significant buzz, especially due to its unique premise and high emotional stakes. However, despite its promising storyline, the film struggles to strike a balance between romance and nationalism, ultimately leaving the audience wanting more.
In this in-depth review, we will explore how Thandel fares in terms of story, screenplay, performances, music, and overall impact.
Thandel Story: Love, Separation, and a Journey into Pakistan
The story revolves around Raju (Naga Chaitanya) and Satya (Sai Pallavi), childhood sweethearts from a fishing community. As Raju grows up, he becomes a Thandel (leader of a fishing boat) and frequently embarks on long voyages into the sea. This deeply worries Satya, who asks Raju to find a stable job on land instead of risking his life at sea. Though Raju assures Satya of his commitment, circumstances force him to venture into the ocean once again.
Tragedy strikes when Raju’s boat accidentally crosses into Pakistan’s maritime territory. What follows is a series of dramatic and politically charged events, which form the crux of the film. The film attempts to explore the struggles of Indian fishermen detained in Pakistan, the diplomatic tensions, and the emotional turmoil of families waiting for their loved ones to return home.
While the premise is engaging, the film falters in execution, particularly in the second half, where logic takes a backseat, and cinematic liberties overshadow realism.
Thandel Review: Story Execution and Direction
Director Chandoo Mondeti set out to tell a poignant love story against the backdrop of a real-life geopolitical issue, but unfortunately, the film fails to do justice to either. The screenplay struggles to maintain emotional depth, and the shifts in tone between romance and patriotism feel abrupt and unconvincing.
1. Love Story Dominates the First Half
The film starts by establishing the love story between Raju and Satya, with beautifully shot sequences and heartfelt moments. Their chemistry is portrayed well, and several romantic montages and melodious songs strengthen their bond.
However, the film spends too much time on romance, delaying the introduction of the core conflict—the Pakistan detainment—until the interval. Given that the audience is already aware of the premise from trailers and promotions, the slow build-up feels unnecessary.
The railway station sequence, where Raju convinces Satya to let him go back to the sea, is one of the few moments that effectively balances emotion and drama, making it an engaging watch.
2. The Pakistan Conflict – A Missed Opportunity
The second half of the film shifts its focus to Raju’s struggles in a Pakistani prison. However, instead of creating tension, emotional stakes, or a thought-provoking narrative, the film takes a highly unrealistic approach.
Unrealistic and Silly Sequences
- A bus carrying Indian fishermen is attacked by Pakistani civilians, supposedly angered by the Article 370 issue. Raju and his fellow fishermen retaliate and return to prison after an over-the-top action sequence.
- A sympathetic Pakistani jailer listens to Raju’s love story and then somehow manages to call Satya in India! This scene lacks credibility and feels out of place in an otherwise serious storyline.
- At the pre-climax, Raju and his fellow prisoners stage a protest at the Wagah border demanding the release of an Indian fisherman. The way this entire sequence unfolds makes it unintentionally comical rather than impactful.
While it’s understandable that cinematic liberties are sometimes necessary, the lack of realism and depth in these key sequences weakens the film’s emotional core. The film could have taken a more grounded and intense approach, showcasing the real plight of Indian fishermen stuck in foreign prisons. Instead, it ends up feeling like a generic, over-dramatized narrative.
Thandel Review: Performances – Sai Pallavi Shines, Naga Chaitanya Struggles
One of the film’s biggest strengths is Sai Pallavi’s performance as Satya. She delivers an emotionally charged portrayal, showcasing love, determination, and pain in a way that makes her character believable.
Sai Pallavi’s Performance:
- Though she struggles slightly with the Srikakulam accent, her expressions, dance, and emotional depth make up for it.
- Her dance in "Namo Namah Shivaya" is graceful and mesmerizing.
- She portrays Satya’s inner turmoil and longing for Raju beautifully, making her character one of the most relatable aspects of the film.
Naga Chaitanya as Raju – A Decent Effort, But Not His Best
While Naga Chaitanya puts in a sincere effort, his performance feels adequate rather than outstanding. His portrayal of a strong yet emotional fisherman has some impactful moments, but he lacks the intensity required for the role.
Given that his character faces extreme hardships, a more emotionally layered performance would have elevated the film. His chemistry with Sai Pallavi works well in the first half, but the second half leaves him with underwhelming material to work with.
Thandel Review: Technical Aspects and Music
1. Music and Background Score
Devi Sri Prasad’s (DSP) background score and songs are a mixed bag. While some songs, like "Namo Namah Shivaya", add emotional depth, others fail to leave a lasting impact.
BGM Strengths:
- Works well in romantic and emotional scenes.
- Highlights Sai Pallavi’s dance sequences effectively.
BGM Weaknesses:
- Lacks intensity in crucial Pakistan-related sequences.
- Fails to enhance high-stakes moments in the second half.
2. Cinematography and Visuals
The film is visually appealing, thanks to captivating cinematography. The sea sequences, coastal village landscapes, and Wagah border scenes are well-shot. However, the Pakistan prison setup looks artificial, reducing the film’s authenticity.
3. Editing and Pacing
- The first half drags unnecessarily, delaying the actual conflict.
- The second half feels rushed, particularly during climax sequences.
A tighter screenplay could have significantly improved the film’s overall impact.
Final Verdict: Thandel Lacks Emotional Depth and Realism
Despite a strong premise and two talented lead actors, Thandel fails to deliver a compelling love story or a gripping patriotic drama.
Strengths:
Sai Pallavi’s Performance – A major highlight.
Beautiful Cinematography – Captures the coastal setting and romance well.
Some Engaging Moments – The railway station scene and initial love story sequences work well.
Weaknesses:
Weak Second Half – Lacks realism and emotional depth.
Over-the-Top Pakistan Sequences – Unintentionally comical at times.
Slow Pacing in the First Half – Delays the main plot.
Lackluster Screenplay – Neither fully romantic nor fully patriotic.
Final Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)
Overall, Thandel ends up as a missed opportunity. It had the potential to be a powerful love story with a gripping patriotic narrative, but poor execution, unrealistic storytelling, and weak emotional depth prevent it from reaching its full potential.
If you’re a fan of Sai Pallavi or Naga Chaitanya, you might find some moments to enjoy, but as a whole, the film fails to leave a lasting impact.
