Mega struggle for mega hit

'MSVP', a collaboration between veteran actor Chiranjeevi, who is currently out of form, and director Anil Ravipudi, who is enjoying commercial success, is limited to slapstick and extremely low-brow (cringe) comedy.

The film appears to be a desperate attempt by Chiranjeevi to regain his form and achieve box office success. In the process, he seems to have even set aside the dignified star image he has built over decades.

He plays the role of a divorced husband trying to win back his wife and children after a ten-year separation.

The film's plot, which revolves around reuniting estranged couples, is reminiscent of the 1991 film "Edurinti Mogudu – Pakkinti Pellam" starring Rajendra Prasad.

However, while the couple in that film lived in opposite houses, in MSVP, Chiranjeevi and Nayanthara live in the same house.

Fundamentally, MSVP lacks a strong story or logic. The film's narrative feels more like a series of comedy skits stitched together.

Venkatesh's cameo appearance is used to propel the film towards the climax, injecting some energy into the second half.

Technically, the film's production is good. Chiranjeevi manages to impress the audience here and there with his signature comedic timing.

However, the main point of discussion regarding this film is the Megastar's self-diminution of his 'larger-than-life' image. It is unfortunate that Chiranjeevi, in the name of comedy, has imitated the irrational slapstick comedy of yesteryear, reminiscent of Rajendra Prasad or Allari Naresh.

Anil Ravipudi has once again proven that illogical, cringe-worthy comedy is his forte.

While some recent films have belittled the police system, MSVP goes a step further and ridicules national security agencies like the IB, R&AW, and NIA. The way Chiranjeevi's character is portrayed as the Chief Security Advisor to a Union Minister clearly shows a complete lack of understanding of VIP security and the functioning of intelligence agencies.

For the sake of comedy, this film completely disregards logic, discretion, and respect.

Some comedy scenes worked individually, and Venkatesh's character helped move the film forward. Ultimately, the story ends happily with the heroine and her father accepting Chiranjeevi.

Given the Sankranthi season, this illogical comedy seems to have connected with the youth and emerged as a winner at the box office.