The Nagarjuna starrer “Kedi” finally hit the theatres to high expectations given that Nagarjuna’s last offering “King” released way back in 2008. Kedi lives up to the hype to a very large extent given its interesting storyline that’s backed by a solid performance by Nagarjuna. It’s a Nag show all the way and he single-handedly carries the film in his own inimitable style!!!

What is it about : The entire story of Kedi is set in one single day with a screenplay that takes us back and forth in time. It starts interestingly with Ramesh alias Rummy (Nagarjuna) being arrested in Hyderabad by ACP Ramshekhar (Sayaji Shinde) who seems to have known him previously. The two men start talking and so a series of flashbacks show us Rummy’s journey from Guntur to the beaches of Goa where he is now a successful conman. We are treated to many episodes around his childhood sweetheart, his first step into crime, and the jobs he pulls off for his boss Chandra (Ankur Vakil), his mysterious relationship with Janaki (Mamta Mohandas). Eventually, the flashbacks catch up with the present where we find out what Rummy’s mission was in Hyderabad before it leads to a predicable climax involving RDX, Jihadis & Maoists!!! There is also a sub-plot around Janaki’s past and what her connection is with Rummy. To show Rummy’s good-heartedness, there is also a little piece where he helps a friend find her missing sister in the clubs owned by the local druglord Victor (Kelly Dorji)

What is Good: Kedi has an interesting script about a charming conman and it makes full use of it to throw up interesting and comical situations. Nagarjuna gives Rummy’s character a very stylish interpretation which makes it very appealing and very soon you forget that Rummy is a grey character on the wrong side of the law. Despite his age showing up at times, he still retains his charm and puts in subtle performance. He is well supported by the other cast like Sayaji Shinde and Ankur Vakil alongwith slick production values. The cinematography and editing work are very well-done. Sandeep Chowta’s background score suits the mood of the movie. Overall, debutante director Kiran manages to keep things in control.

What is bad: The second half was a slight disappointment since it dragged for a couple of reels more than required in its effort to tie all the loose ends together. A couple of flashbacks and one song in the second half could have been safely done away with. The action scene at the end with the jihadis looked forced and tame and could have been made more realistic. Mamta Mohandas had nothing much to do and her character hardly made an impact.

Me Thinks: Kedi definitely entertains and is a one-time watch thanks to its stylized taking and Nagarjuna’s acting. It plays smoothly for most of the time without being over-the-top or by putting in too many masala elements in it.

Tailpiece: Anushka puts in a sizzling special appearance in the introductory title song with Nagarjuna and leaves you wishing for more!!!