Gedelaraju Kakinada Taluka Movie Review: A layered crime drama that gets better with every twist

Gedela Raju Kakinada Taluka revolves around Gedela Raju (Raghu Kunche), a feared local rowdy whose growing influence eventually pushes him into the world of politics. Known for his power and presence, Raju commands both fear and loyalty but his rise is abruptly cut short when he is found murdered under mysterious circumstances one night. What follows is not a straightforward investigation but a gradual unravelling of lives connected to Raju. The story shifts across multiple characters — associates, rivals, family members and others who have crossed paths with him, each holding a piece of the puzzle. As their stories unfold, layers of secrets, betrayals and hidden motives begin to surface. The narrative builds through these intersecting perspectives, slowly revealing the circumstances leading up to the murder, while blurring clear lines between right and wrong.Some crime dramas rely on speed; Gedela Raju Kakinada Taluka relies on accumulation. It doesn’t rush to solve its central mystery but instead circles around it, letting each character add a new shade to the story. Director Chaitanya Moturi approaches the material with a grounded lens, focusing less on dramatic twists and more on the people who inhabit this world.The film’s structure is its biggest strength. By unfolding the story through multiple perspectives, it keeps the audience piecing things together rather than handing out easy answers. Each character brings their own version of truth, and the film smartly uses this to build intrigue. There’s an underlying tension in not knowing who to trust, and that uncertainty works in the film’s favour.That said, this approach demands patience. The first half is largely dedicated to setting up the world and its relationships. It moves at a measured pace, sometimes bordering on slow, as it establishes the connections that will later become crucial. While this helps in grounding the narrative, it may feel stretched for viewers expecting a more immediate hook. The payoff arrives in the second half. As the investigation deepens and the narrative threads begin to converge, the film finds its rhythm. The mystery grows more engaging, and the gradual revelations add weight to the story. The film becomes less about who committed the crime and more about why — and in that shift lies its emotional and narrative strength.Raghu Kunche delivers a solid performance as Gedela Raju, bringing both intensity and restraint to the role. Even as the story branches out into multiple perspectives, his presence anchors the narrative. The ensemble cast supports the film well, with each character contributing meaningfully to the unfolding drama. The rooted setting adds authenticity, and the film benefits from its realistic tone. The background score complements the mood without overpowering it, while the cinematography keeps things grounded and functional.However, the pacing remains a concern in parts. Even in the latter half, where the film becomes more engaging, certain stretches feel longer than necessary. A tighter screenplay could have sharpened the impact further.—Sanjana Pulugurtha