Operation Raavan Movie Review

Operation Raavan recently debuted in theaters and is now streaming on Aha. Directed by Venkata Sathya, this crime thriller features Rakshith Atluri, Sangeerthana, Radhika, and Charan Raj in key roles. Although intended as a high-stakes thriller, the film’s lackluster story and weak screenplay fall short of engaging the audience, making Operation Raavan more of a bland drama than a gripping thriller.

Plot Summary
The story follows Ram (Rakshith), a news channel reporter who becomes an assistant to senior reporter Aamani (Sangeerthana). Aamani is pursuing a high-profile scandal involving a politician's ₹100 crore scam, but her superiors intervene, barring her from continuing the investigation. Ram is appointed as her assistant to report on her activities. As Ram admires Aamani's dedication, he becomes deeply invested in her work.

Meanwhile, a serial killer targets young brides-to-be, severing their hands and leaving chess pieces near the crime scenes. Aamani takes up the case to expose the killer, enlisting Ram’s help. Soon, Aamani is kidnapped by the masked killer, and police officer Sugreeva, who is on the case, is also murdered. The investigation, named "Operation Raavan," aims to uncover the killer’s identity and motivations. As Ram delves deeper, he uncovers shocking truths about the killer and his motives.

Analysis
The film attempts to build suspense with its serial killer plot and investigative twists but lacks the depth and narrative coherence needed to sustain interest. While the concept of a journalist and a police operation intersecting with a psychotic killer’s motives has potential, the execution falters. Characters introduced with intrigue either fade into the background or are underutilized, such as the police officer who initiates “Operation Raavan” and the politician scam subplot, which are sidelined without resolution. The climax is predictable, with twists that audiences may anticipate well in advance.

Performance
The performances by Rakshith Atluri and Sangeerthana are average, with limited emotional impact. Radhika's character, expected to have significant influence, ends up as another underdeveloped role. In the second half, the focus on the killer's backstory distances the audience from the protagonist’s journey, weakening engagement. The pre-climax scenes also feel overly dramatic, lacking the punch needed for an effective thriller.

Technical Aspects
Cinematography by Nani, music by Sharavana Vasudevan, and editing by Sathya offer little to enhance the tension or immerse viewers in the story. For a thriller of this nature, the pacing and atmosphere should instill fear and anticipation. However, Operation Raavan lacks that immersive quality, failing to convince viewers of the story’s stakes or urgency.

Final Verdict
Despite its promising premise, Operation Raavan struggles with weak character development, disconnected scenes, and predictable storytelling. Although the film had the opportunity to be an engaging thriller, its lack of compelling direction and depth leaves it as a forgettable crime drama.