Latest news with #RituVarma
The Hindu
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
‘Devika & Danny' review: Ritu Varma impresses in her debut web series
In the first few minutes of the Telugu web series Devika & Danny, streaming on Jio Hotstar, Devika Nandan (Ritu Varma) discloses that she has lived her life within a 25-kilometre radius. She teaches music at a nearby village and is the sort of young woman who, despite her reservations about a groom being picked for her, thinks she can walk the line chosen by her father in the hope that a few 'adjustments' would make things work. Written by Deepak Raj and directed by B Kishore, this is a coming-of-age story of a woman who breaks boundaries and in the process, finds her voice. It is easy to gauge the path that Devika is likely to take; she cannot be restrained. The makers gradually reveal the different cards of the story, relying on uncomplicated storytelling. Romance and horror cross paths but unlike long-form stories on digital platforms that milk the genres for shock value with jumpscares and foul language, Devika & Danny caters to family viewing. Devika & Danny (Telugu) Director: B Kishore Cast: Ritu Varma, Surya Vashistta, Shiva Kandukuri, Subbaraju Streaming on: Jio Hotstar Ritu Varma's web series debut comes nearly nine years after her breakthrough Telugu film, Pelli Choopulu, and there are a few uncanny similarities. Like in that romance comedy drama, here too, she plays a woman who tries, without rebelling too much, to make her father understand her point of view. Unlike the urban-bred character of Pelli Choopulu, here she is limited by her conditioning and lack of exposure. However, the narrative is peppered with a few supporting characters who act as a catalyst, helping Devika take that leap of faith. Ritu plays Devika with restraint and conviction; the part is a cakewalk for her and she brings in both the required innocence and strength. Surya Vashistta steps in to play the other titular character, Danny, initially coming off as a free-spirited, breezy personality. That this character sweeps Devika off her feet is not a surprise. In the meantime, we get glimpses of several other characters, ranging from a gangster, his wife and brother-in-law to an elderly man who is weighed down by his ability to see and listen to spirits, and a self-centred groom (Subbaraju). The prospect of a triangular post-engagement romance drama unfolds in an endearing manner. What makes this less predictable is a crucial reveal and the need for a character to seek redemption. It also sets Devika's character on a new trajectory. Danger lurks as she takes on forces that may be too huge for her to handle. However, the makers opt for a few convenient writing choices that almost dilute the intrigue in the later episodes. The over-reliance on voiceovers that explain a character's point of view could have also been toned down, letting the audience connect the dots. Harsha Chemudu appears in a brief part that doesn't add value to the series, but Goparaju Ramana, in his brief appearance, enacts a character that establishes how generational patriarchy works. The underlying aspect of patriarchy and how Devika rises above it is dealt with sensitivity and the right amount of assertiveness. Shiva Kandukuri gets a pivotal character that may have further scope in the coming season. While Devika & Danny makes for an easy watch, the intrigue wears off once the key plot points are revealed. For the next season, the story will require more heft.
Hans India
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
‘Devika and Danny' set to stream on Jio Hotstar from June 6
Jio Hotstar is set to roll out its latest Hotstar Specials series Devika and Danny on June 6, promising a refreshing and emotional ride for viewers. Featuring Ritu Varma, Surya Vasistta, Siva Kandukuri, and Subbaraju in key roles, the web series is directed by B. Kishore and produced by Sudhakar Chaganti under Joy Films. At a press meet held in Hyderabad, the team shared insights into the making of the show. Lead actress Ritu Varma said, 'I've been waiting for a meaningful web series, and Devika and Danny came as a blessing. It's an empowering story that gives hope, especially for women told they can't chase dreams. The team—from director Kishore to cinematographer Venkat Dilip—was exceptional.' Surya Vasistta, who plays Danny, shared, 'The series reflects the transformation of a girl restricted by small-town boundaries. My role is layered and impactful, and I'm thankful for this opportunity.' He also praised Ritu and Siva Kandukuri for their performances and camaraderie on set. Siva Kandukuri, playing Subbu, emphasized the series' clean and emotional storytelling. 'At a time when web series are stereotyped for bold content, Devika and Danny offers something pure and cinematic. It was a joy playing Subbu, who adds humour to the narrative.' Producer Sudhakar Chaganti called it a 'blend of emotion and entertainment,' lauding the cast and crew for bringing this seven-episode series to life. Director Kishore noted, 'We've crafted a heartfelt story with visual richness and a soul. Audiences will love every episode.' With support from Jio Hotstar and a dedicated team, Devika and Danny aims to connect deeply with viewers when it premieres on June 6.
