Devara: Part 1

Hits:

1. VFX Surprise: Despite initial concerns, the movie's visuals (locations and VFX) impressed on the big screen, delivering a realistic and immersive experience.

2. Action Masterclass: The film excels in capturing the intensity of mass action sequences. The ambush scene at the interval, with its blood-soaked waves and Devara's defiant face, is a prime example.

3. NTR's Duality: NTR shines, portraying the duality of the courageous Devara and the timid Vara with remarkable balance.

Misses:

1. Second-Half Fumble: The movie's biggest weakness lies in its second half. Weak writing filled with immature jokes, illogical scene transitions, and a rushed plot significantly dampens the experience.

2. Janhvi Kapoor Misfire: Kapoor's scenes were poorly received, highlighting some shortcomings in Indian cinema's portrayal of female characters.

3. Music Overload: While the editing is good, Anirudh Ravichander's music feels overused, detracting from the narrative flow. The score dominates the film when a well-placed soundtrack would have been more impactful.

4. Weak Dialogue: The dialogues themselves are forgettable, saved only by NTR's strong delivery.

Uneven Pacing: The first half meticulously builds the world, while the second half rushes through the plot, leading to a forced and unsatisfying climax/cliffhanger. It feels like the director struggled with the ending, leaving it open for a sequel.

Overall: A strong first half full of action and NTR's performance can't redeem a poorly executed second half. This film had the potential to be an epic action spectacle but ultimately falls short.