Swayamvara' yet another average remake

By V.S. Rajapur, Film: 'Swayamvara'; Director: Ananta Raju; Cast: Sreenagara Kitty, Diganth, Sharmila Mandre, Rangayana Raghu and Raemsh Bhat; Music: Manikanth Kadri; Rating:*1/2

"Swayamvara" is a remake of Hindi film "Mujhse Shaadi Karogi" starring Salman Khan, Akshay Kumar and Priyanka Chopra. But the film's director Ananta Raju credits himself with the story and screenplay, thinking that movie buffs and critics are a gullible lot.

"Swayamvara" is a bit and pieces film, which just ends up as a time-pass product. Some funny moments here and there are likeable, but the movie has too many loopholes and one isn't likely to come out recalling really memorable scenes.

"Swayamvara" does have its merits - it has moments to cheer the viewers. The film's heroine Sharmila has done her best - she looks perfect and carries off her role with much aplomb.

Sreenagara Kitty has also given a neat performance while Rangayana Raghu has been able to entertain audiences with his antics and comedy-oriented performance.

There are many things that are badly handled in the film. Anantha Raju's own contribution in terms of some additions to the screenplay ends up as dragging elements in the film. The movie could also have been made a little sharper.

The dialogues too lack the necessary punch.

Surprisingly, Manikanth Kadri also delivers average compositions in the film's music, though two songs have been well shot.

The story of "Swayamvara" revolves around hot tempered Ajay, who falls for Anu at first sight and he tries his level best to control his temper as much as possible to impress her.

Even Anu likes Ajay. But things go horribly for Ajay when, in one of his uncontrollable fits of anger, he slaps a strict ex-service officer Kenchappa, who turns out to be Anu's father.

Ajay's dreams are further shattered when Vijay enters the scene to spoil his party. However, despite twists and turns, the movie sees Ajay and Anu united in the end.

Sharmila steals the show with her glamour quotient and her fine performance. Kitty and Diganth prove to be perfect choices for the film as well. Rangayana Raghu over-acts in many sequences, but is still funny and provides a few good laughs.

Almost all the character artists have performed well in the film. H.C. Venu has done a good job behind camera.

"Swayamvara" is an average fare and is worth just a one-time watch.