Cast
View All
N.T. Rama Rao
as Sri Potuluri Veerabrahmendra Swamy, Gautama Buddha, Aadi Shankaracharya, Ramanujacharya & Yogi Vemana
Nandamuri Balakrishna
as Sayyad / Siddayya
Rati Agnihotri
as Raziya
Allu Ramalingaiah
as Karanam
Kanchana
as Govindhamma
Kaikala Satyanarayana
as Kakkadu
Kanchana
as Govindamma
Devika
as Gollalu
Janaki
as Yekukalasani
Crew
Director
- N.T. Rama Rao
Writer
- Kondaveeti Venkatakavi
- N.T. Rama Rao
Producer
- N.T. Rama Rao
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Srimadvirat Veerabrahmendra Swami Charitra represents a fascinating example of History/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director N.T. Rama Rao brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1984, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Srimadvirat Veerabrahmendra Swami Charitra took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 173 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 197 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 965 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1984, when this film was released:
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- The Cold War was entering its final phase.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Srimadvirat Veerabrahmendra Swami Charitra shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Iron & Blood: The Legend of Taras Bulba, which focuses more on action than character development, Srimadvirat Veerabrahmendra Swami Charitra subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Intolerance: Love's Struggle Throughout the Ages and Apocalypto explore similar territory, Srimadvirat Veerabrahmendra Swami Charitra stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 29, 1984
- Runtime: 2h 53m
