Film - Family Star 
Cast - Vijay Deverakonda, Mrunal Thakur, Rohini Hattangadi, Vennela Kishore, Jagapathi Babu
Director - Parashuram Petla
Rating: 2 stars
 
Directed by Parashuram Petla, "Family Star" stars Vijay Deverakonda, Mrunal Thakur, Rohini Hattangadi, Vennela Kishore, and Jagapathi Babu. The film attempts to showcase Vijay Deverakonda in a new light, portraying him as a middle-class man burdened by family responsibilities but also capable of superhero-like feats. However, despite its blockbuster aspirations, "Family Star" falls short in delivering an engaging and entertaining experience.
 
Vijay Deverakonda plays Govardhan, a middle-class man struggling to support his joint family. His character is portrayed as a superhero of sorts, capable of bending steel rods at will, which adds a fantastical element to an otherwise grounded story. Mrunal Thakur plays Indu, a postgraduate student who becomes intertwined with Govardhan's family, leading to a romantic relationship between her and Govardhan.
 
The film's central conflict arises when a secret about Indu is revealed, causing a rift between her and Govardhan. While the premise has potential, the execution falls short, with the conflict feeling forced and unrealistic. The characters lack depth, and their motivations often seem unclear or illogical.
 
Despite these shortcomings, Vijay Deverakonda brings sincerity to his role, and Mrunal Thakur adds glamour to the screen. The supporting cast, including Rohini Hattangadi and Jagapathi Babu, perform adequately given the limitations of their roles. The film's music by Gopi Sundar and cinematography by Mohanan are highlights, adding some much-needed flair to the proceedings.
 
However, the film's biggest drawback is its writing. The story feels dated, and the treatment lacks innovation. The dialogue is uninspired, relying heavily on clichés and melodrama. The film's attempts at portraying middle-class life often feel superficial, overshadowed by its larger-than-life aspirations.
 
In conclusion, "Family Star" fails to live up to its potential, delivering a bland and forgettable experience. While it has its moments, particularly in Vijay Deverakonda's earnest performance, the film struggles to engage the audience with its simplistic storytelling and lackluster execution.