The Girlfriend, an emotional romantic drama, brings together a talented ensemble with Rashmika Mandanna and Dheekshith Shetty in lead roles. Written and directed by Rahul Ravindran, the film is produced by Dheeraj Mogilineni and Vidya Koppineedi under the banners of Geetha Arts and Dheeraj Mogilineni Entertainment, and is presented by ace producer Allu Aravind. The film hit theatres on November 7, with releases in Telugu and Hindi, before expanding to other South Indian languages.
The story revolves around Bhuma (Rashmika Mandanna) and Vikram (Dheekshith Shetty). What begins as a modern take on love soon transforms into a deeply introspective drama tracing the complexities of human relationships. As the protagonists confront their own vulnerabilities, the narrative uncovers the silent battles and emotional struggles that shape their journey.
Rashmika Mandanna delivers a heartfelt and nuanced performance, breathing life into her character with remarkable depth. She balances the role's emotional and sensitive layers, winning the audience’s empathy. Dheekshith Shetty stands out as Vikram, displaying vulnerability and intensity in equal measure. Supporting cast members, particularly Anu Emmanuel, leave a strong impression, adding texture to the storytelling.
On the technical front, the film benefits from Prashanth Vihari’s soulful score and Hesham Abdul Wahab’s engaging background music, which effectively elevate several key moments. The cinematography captures the mood and tone with warmth, while the editing by Chota K Prasad maintains a steady pace that suits the film’s contemplative pulse.
Highlights of the film include Rashmika’s mature performance, thought-provoking themes, realistic dialogues, and the emotional chemistry between the leads. The director’s attempt to tackle relevant, sensitive issues facing today’s youth is noteworthy.
However, the film is not without its drawbacks. The narrative tends to get heavy-handed at times, slowing down the second half. Predictability in key plot twists and occasional melodrama dilute the impact. Certain subplots and characters feel underdeveloped, affecting the film’s overall emotional payoff.
In conclusion, The Girlfriend offers a blend of realism and sentiment, anchored by strong central performances and a grounded approach to romance. While its intent is genuine and themes are relatable, the film struggles to consistently engage due to its pacing and overly familiar story beats. Still, it resonates with viewers seeking emotional depth and reflective storytelling.
Bottom Line: An honest romantic drama with rooted performances, but let down by slow pacing and predictability.
Rating: 2.75/5
