VV Vinayak, renowned for his expertise in crafting entertaining and mass-oriented films, faced a turning point in his directorial career after the debut of “Akhil: The Power of Jua.” Despite the success of “Khaidi No 150,” a Tamil remake where Vinayak showcased his directorial prowess, his subsequent original film, “Inttelligent,” released in 2018, experienced a setback at the Box Office. Even with its availability on OTT platforms, potential viewers hesitated to engage due to the prevalent negative discussions surrounding its release.
Following the disappointment of “Inttelligent” in 2018, Vinayak took a five-year break from film direction. Eager to make a strong comeback, he ventured into Bollywood, introducing Bellamkonda Sreenivas in the remake of Rajamouli’s Telugu blockbuster “Chatrapati.” The muhurat shot, graced by SS Rajamouli, added a symbolic touch to this cross-industry collaboration. Despite challenges in casting the female lead, Nushhratt Bharuccha eventually joined the project.
However, the release of “Chatrapati” on May 12th, 2023, was met with unfavorable reviews, citing a lack of intent and careless direction. Speculations arose that the film’s focus may have shifted towards settling scores rather than delivering a compelling cinematic experience. The film was released silently on Prime Video on November 21st, 2023, marking five months since its theatrical release. The quiet digital release stirred reactions among Telugu audiences, especially Prabhas fans, who shared clips comparing it unfavorably to the original. The mixed reception raises questions about the film’s overall strategy and execution, casting a shadow on Vinayak’s ambitious Bollywood debut.
It’s indeed disheartening to witness a talented director like VV Vinayak facing challenges in his recent endeavors. Fans and the industry alike hope for his strong comeback, trusting in his past track record of delivering memorable films. Let’s anticipate a resurgence of his creative prowess and a positive turn in his career.
