Kushi

On the whole, "Kushi" is a likeable rom-com with a neat second half. The main point of the film unfolds in the latter hour, which is packed with good drama and emotions. Shiva Nirvana delivers a film that is relatable to family audiences. Hence, "Kushi" ends up being a good watch.

Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu do a good job of ensuring you stay invested in their characters. A light-hearted tale of love and triumph.

The film is confusing in its messaging. In fact, it looks like Shiva Nirvana is confused about whether to show a progressive or regressive love story. That said, 'Kushi' barely scratches the surface and it's the few stretches of brilliance that make this film a watchable affair.

Vijay Deverakonda and Samantha Ruth Prabhu look great together and set new goals for on-screen romance. But as the paradise is disturbed by societal expectations in the form of motherhood, etc., the film slowly turns routine and loses focus. The writing from this stage is mostly unilateral and from the male point of view.

Viplav and Aradhya are not easy to feel for. While the film takes on an ideological struggle between militant atheism and extreme theism, what we end up getting is more unlikeable people into this world. This film about an ideological clash offers little to reflect on—and this story about dreamy-love-leading-to-marital-distress creates little emotional resonance.

In that vein, Kushi is a missed chance. In a country where extremists seek life in the name of love jihad, it could have really fostered love and acceptance. Instead, we have something forgettable.