It's evident that Panja Vaishnav Tej struggles to distinguish between a sensible script and a colossal dud. The choice of a stale storyline like 'Aadikeshava' is surprising. The film, which hit theaters last Friday (November 24), has already been declared a flop.
In fairness to Tej, it's reasonable to assume that turning down a script endorsed by Sithara Entertainments, a banner with a commendable track record, might not have been an easy decision. However, the flat, boring, and outdated nature of the storyline is so apparent that any actor with a basic level of intelligence could have foreseen the impending failure. The narration by debutant director Srikanth N Reddy proves to be a test of patience.
In Tej's defence, it can be said that even the likes of Chiranjeevi ('Bholaa Shankar'), Nithiin ('Macherla Niyojakavargam') and Ram Pothineni ('The Warriorr') have been making terrible choices. These are actors with a far greater experience than him.
After making a stunning start with 'Uppena' in 2021, Tej has lost his way. 'Konda Polam' and 'Ranga Ranga Vaibhavanga' flopped in quick succession. And now 'Aadikeshava'. What is he going to do to turn around his filmography? He needs the 'mega' guidance of his elders, perhaps.
