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18 Pages Movie Review: Heartfelt as a drama, engrossing as a thriller

Rating: ( 3.5 / 5).

The opening scene of any film is sacrosanct. There’s a particular joy in discerning that the filmmaker is trying to punctuate the film’s themes seconds after the first frame comes up. It happens in 18 Pages when we first see Siddhu (a confident Nikhil Siddhartha), in his dim bedroom, with the screen of his phone lighting up his face. The rock score in the background might announce the introduction of a ‘hero’ but here’s a man whose entire life seems to be only lit up by his phone, like many of us. We then see his activities—from using the toilet to walking on the road, albeit recklessly—  with his phone as a constant companion. He is constantly in touch with his girlfriend virtually. The opening few minutes, even if they spell it out with no subtlety, neatly set up his character and paint a clear picture of the contrast we will eventually see once the conflict is introduced. Expectedly, when his lover breaks his heart, Siddhu is pushed into darkness and this time, he needs some real light—not the one from his phone—to bring him out of the sorrow. And it happens when he stumbles upon a dusted, two-year-old journal that introduces him to Nandhini (a fabulous Anupama Parameswaran). Her words from the past begin to influence his present and what follows is a tale that is about love and many larger and deeper themes.

Directed by: Surya Pratap Palnati Cast: Nikhil Siddhartha, Anupama Parameswaran On an idea level, 18 Pages might seem a little conventional. In fact, going the old-school way is one of the primary themes of the film. At points, it does remind you of those ‘90s films in which the leads fall in love by posting letters to each other, or films where the couple are unaware of their identities till the very end. Do you get an idea? Although its ideas might be old-school, 18 Pages is a timely film that posits a timely, modern conundrum in our lives: lack of human interaction. And the film spins its whole script around this concept, without ever getting preachy. Sukumar's script uses many elements, from Siddhu’s profession—which involves virtual interaction—to a minor but terrific character, that of a young boy who sells pens at a traffic signal, to make its point and this paves way for some beautiful moments teeming with love and kindness. Nandhini, the polar opposite of Siddhu, believes in living life rather than simply navigating through it. She doesn't use a phone. Her introduction is pleasantly done and although it’s done verbally (it is a verbose film and voice-overs play a major role, considering journaling is a central theme), it encapsulates everything about her, the way she perceives life, and how she processes every tiny thing. It is, in a way, Nandhini’s movie—the frame freezes when she smiles at the camera and then the title appears. In fact, the film is sprinkled with such lovely, heartfelt moments stemming out of the script’s attempts to underline the importance of forging a human bond. The character of a bus conductor (played by Middle-Class Melodies -fame Goparaju Ramana) is one of the best things in the film, both as a plot device and as a means to present the humane attribute in the script. His brief interaction with Nandhini and how this dynamic is later used to further the plot is one of the best facets of Sukumar’s script. On the strength of Sukumar's script, Surya Pratap Palnati does try to incorporate many elements—in the form of characters and sub-plots—but never chews more than what he can bite and gives closure to all the arcs. While the script does answer most of your questions, especially after it ventures into the thriller territory, it does leave some questions but thankfully, they are not glaring. The script also bridges the tonal unevenness smoothly and one really doesn’t really feel distracted when the film jumps from being a feel-good romance (although it is not a romance) at one point to a serious thriller, and then back to a light-hearted zone. The film’s biggest strength is perhaps its ability to sell both the lightness and darkness with ease. As a drama, it is heartfelt and encourages you to ponder on your relationships; Siddhu’s non-relationship with Nandhini also leads to a couple of hilarious gags. And when it’s a thriller, you are really invested in it and crave to know more about it. And one has to mention Navin Nooli's editing. At first, they effectively juxtapose the lives of these two distinct humans and then slowly begin to draw parallels between them. 18 Pages is one of those films in which editing and storytelling are inseparable and complement each other. It’s fitting that a character identifies Nandhini with a crossword puzzle. She really is a puzzle, one that Siddhu and 18 Pages try to solve. And 18 Pages is really as engaging and satisfying as solving a puzzle.

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Home » Review » 18 Pages review: This retro-styled romance impresses only in parts »

18 Pages review: This retro-styled romance impresses only in parts

Nikhil Siddhartha and Anupama Parameswaran’s film has a refreshing premise but is let down by patchy storytelling

• Srivathsan Nadadhur

Last Updated: 12.50 PM, Dec 23, 2022

Siddu a.k.a Siddharth, a software employee, is head over heels in love with Preethi, but their relationship falls apart when the latter cheats on him. While lamenting over his past, he comes across a diary of a girl named Nandini in the middle of a road. With every page in the book, Siddu becomes more obsessed with Nandini and his outlook towards life drastically changes by the day. There’s a twist in the tale when Siddu tries to trace Nandini’s wherabouts. Will Siddu and Nandini ever get to meet each other?

There’s something very comforting about old-world romances in times where most love stories are skin-deep and often come with the vibe of a manufactured product. 18 Pages, as the title suggests, revolves around the diary of a girl and how a man falls for her thoughts, child-like approach to life. Right after a breakup, Nandini brings hope to Siddu’s life. He’s in pursuit of her, not for her looks but for her personality.

18 Pages as a romance is more idealistic and less pragmatic, although you root for the characters because of their honesty. While the premise Pages feels like a fond throwback to the 80s/90s era romance, the execution is all over the place. The director Palnati Surya Pratap is desperate to squeeze drama out of Nandini’s diary entries and Siddu’s hysterical responses and the film struggles to build any sort of momentum.

Nandini’s story is narrated in brief episodes through Siddu’s eyes and it’s not an ideal scenario when a director sets up an entire half of a film where the protagonist reads only 18 pages in a diary. The film, if not anything else, certainly needed a faster reader. Siddu’s dramatic reactions to Nandini’s observations and his desperation to imbibe her approach to life is tiring. The sequence where Siddu tries to reach his meeting venue without the use of technology, in particular, is outrageously silly.

After an intriguing reveleation and a surprisingly mature response from Siddu, you expect the film to gain steam with the backstory on Nandini. However, the backstory is as vanilla as it can get; the writing is lazy, unimaginative and makes the final act feel so convenient. 18 Pages needed more redrafting and a director with a greater conviction in the material. For a major part, despite its ambitious ideas, the film is too superficial and struggles to keep you glued to the screens.

Another major area of concern is Nandini’s characterisation. She is absolutely a product of male fantasy and is an embodiment of perfection. She doesn’t use mobile/social media, draws muggus the first thing in the morning, helps kids at an orphanage, beggars on a road, offers relationship advice for her room mates and maintains a journal. The idea of writing a character that’s very much unlike a millennial is interesting, but it’s important for a viewer to feel she’s human. She can’t do any wrong here.

The subplot around Siddu’s grandfather and his desperation to preach his parents doesn’t help the film’s cause. 18 Pages works mostly when it emphasises on the little gestures that make relationships work. Siddu and Nandini don’t try to impress one another; the former’s acts are born out of his genuine concern and care for her. The ending comes with a poetic touch. If not for the compulsion and the struggle to stretch the plot for over 2 hours, 18 Pages would’ve been a crisp, engaging film.

Nikhil Siddhartha, as usual, doesn’t try to place himself above the story and comes up with a largely effective performance. Despite the ‘oh-so-perfect’ characterisation, Anupama Parameswaran succeeds in lending a vulnerability to Nandini. However, the supporting cast’s efforts are disappointing, to put it mildly. Sarayu Roy’s role as a female sidekick obstructs the flow of the story. Dinesh Tej, Posani, Ajay, Raj Tirandasu hardly make any impression in their brief roles.

18 Pages is yet another proof of Gopi Sundar’s consistency as a composer - three of the four tracks, including Nannayya Raasina, Yedurangula Vaana, Nee Valla O Pilla, stay with you long after the film. The cinematography is passable, there are a few dubbing/lip-sync issues as well but the invisible villain in the film is its dull screenplay. Palnati Surya Pratap makes progress as a director in comparison to Kumari 21F though his storytelling abilities still need improvement.

18 Pages neither leaves you totally satisfied nor does it disappoint you. It certainly has a promising story though the finesse in the execution is amiss. Nikhil and Anupama Parameswaran’s performances and Gopi Sundar’s music save the day.

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18 Pages Review: రివ్యూ: 18 పేజెస్‌

నిఖిల్‌, అనుపమ పరమేశ్వరన్‌ జంటగా నటించిన సినిమా ‘18 పేజెస్‌’. ఈ ప్రేమకథా చిత్రం శుక్రవారం విడుదలైంది.

18 Pages Review   చిత్రం: 18పేజెస్‌; నటీనటులు: నిఖిల్, అనుపమ పరమేశ్వరన్, సరయు, అజయ్, దినేష్‌ తేజ్, పోసాని కృష్ణమురళి, శత్రు తదితరులు; కూర్పు: నవీన్‌ నూలి; సంగీతం: గోపీ సుందర్‌; ఛాయాగ్రహణం: ఎ.వసంత్‌; కథ: సుకుమార్‌; దర్శకత్వం: పల్నాటి సూర్య ప్రతాప్‌; నిర్మాణ సంస్థలు: జీఏ2 పిక్చర్స్, సుకుమార్‌ రైటింగ్స్‌; విడుదల తేదీ: 23-12-2022.

వైవిధ్యభరితమైన కథలకు చిరునామాగా నిలుస్తుంటారు కథానాయకుడు నిఖిల్‌. ఇటీవల ‘కార్తికేయ2’తో పాన్‌ ఇండియా హిట్‌ అందుకున్నారు. ఇప్పుడా జోష్‌లోనే ‘18పేజెస్‌’తో ప్రేక్షకుల ముందుకొచ్చారు. దర్శకుడు సుకుమార్‌ అందించిన కథతో.. పల్నాటి సూర్య ప్రతాప్‌ తెరకెక్కించిన చిత్రమిది. ఓ సరికొత్త ప్రేమకథతో రూపొందిన సినిమా కావడం.. విడుదలకు ముందే పాటలు, ప్రచార చిత్రాలకు మంచి ఆదరణ దక్కడంతో ఈ సినిమాపై అంచనాలు పెరిగాయి. మరి ఈ ‘18పేజెస్‌’లో ఉన్న ప్రేమకథ సినీ ప్రియులకు ఎటువంటి అనుభూతి పంచింది? ఈ చిత్రంతో హీరో నిఖిల్, దర్శకుడు సూర్య ప్రతాప్‌ మరో హిట్టు అందుకున్నారా? లేదా? తెలుసుకుందాం పదండి..

కథేంటంటే: సిద్ధు అలియాస్‌ సిద్ధార్థ్‌ (నిఖిల్‌) యాప్‌ట్రీ కంపెనీలో యాప్‌ డెవలపర్‌గా పనిచేస్తుంటాడు. ప్రీతి అనే అమ్మాయిని ప్రేమించి మోసపోతాడు. ఆ బాధలో దేవదాస్‌లా మందు కొట్టి.. రోడ్లపై తిరుగుతున్న సమయంలో అతనికొక డైరీ దొరుకుతుంది. విజయనగరంలోని అలజంకి అనే పల్లెటూరికి చెందిన నందిని (అనుపమ పరమేశ్వరన్‌) అనే అమ్మాయి 2019లో రాసుకున్న డైరీ అది. సాంకేతిక ప్రపంచానికి దూరంగా.. ప్రకృతికి, మానవ సంబంధాలకు దగ్గరగా జీవించే అమ్మాయి తను. ఆమె తాత మాట ప్రకారం వెంకట్రావు అనే వ్యక్తికి ఓ కవర్‌ అందించడం కోసం హైదరాబాద్‌కు వస్తుంది. ఆ డైరీ చదివి.. అందులోని నందిని వ్యక్తిత్వం నచ్చి.. ఆమెను చూడకుండానే తనతో ప్రేమలో పడతాడు సిద్ధు. తర్వాత డైరీలో ఉన్న ఆమె అడ్రెస్‌ను వెతుక్కుంటూ వాళ్ల ఇంటికి వెళ్తాడు. కానీ, అక్కడికి వెళ్లాక.. తను ఓ కారు ప్రమాదంలో చనిపోయినట్టు తెలిసి షాకవుతాడు. ఈ క్రమంలో డైరీలో ఉన్న ఘటనల ఆధారంగా రెండేళ్ల క్రితం తనకి ఏం జరిగిందో తెలుసుకునే ప్రయత్నం చేస్తాడు. మరి అతడికి ఎలాంటి నిజాలు తెలిశాయి? నందిని నిజంగా చనిపోయిందా? లేదా? ఆమె తీసుకొచ్చిన కవర్‌లో ఏముంది? ఈ కథలో భాగీ (సరయు), సందీప్‌ (దినేష్‌ తేజ్‌), రాకేశ్‌ (అజయ్‌), మోజో (శత్రు)ల పాత్రలేంటి? అన్నది తెరపై చూసి తెలుసుకోవాలి.

ఎలా ఉందంటే: ప్రేమకథలు వెండితెరపై ఎవర్‌గ్రీన్‌ హిట్‌ ఫార్ములా. దీనికంటూ ప్రత్యేకంగా ఓ సీజన్‌ ఏమీ ఉండదు. ప్రతి వారం ఓ ప్రేమకథ ప్రేక్షకుల్ని పలకరిస్తూనే ఉంటుంది. అయితే వాటిలో వినూత్నమైన కోణంలో సాగి.. సరికొత్త అనుభూతిని పంచిన ప్రేమకథలకే పట్టం కడుతున్నారు ప్రేక్షకులు. ఇలాంటి వినూత్నమైన లవ్‌స్టోరీలకు చిరునామాగా నిలుస్తుంటారు దర్శకుడు సుకుమార్‌. ఆయన ‘18పేజెస్‌’ కోసం మరోసారి తనదైన శైలిలో సరికొత్త ప్రేమకథనే అందించారు. దాన్ని సూర్య ప్రతాప్‌ అంతే ఆహ్లాదభరితంగా తెరపై ఆవిష్కరించి.. మెప్పించారు. ఈ చిత్రంలో అన్ని రకాల భావోద్వేగాలున్నాయని.. ఈ ప్రేమకథ ప్రేక్షకులకు షాకివ్వడంతో పాటు సర్‌ప్రైజ్‌ చేస్తుందని నిఖిల్‌ ప్రచార కార్యక్రమాల్లో చెప్పారు. సినిమా చూస్తే ఆ మాటలు నిజమే అనిపిస్తుంది. వాస్తవానికి ఒకరినొకరు చూసుకోకుండా లేఖల ద్వారానో.. ఇలా డైరీల ద్వారానో నాయకానాయికలు ప్రేమలో పడటం అన్న కాన్సెప్ట్‌ తెలుగు తెరకు కొత్తేమీ కాదు. ఇదీ ఆ కోవకు చెందినదే. కానీ, ఈ కథను ఈతరం ప్రేక్షకులు మెచ్చేలా ఓ కొత్త కోణంలో తెరపై చూపించిన తీరు.. అందులో ఇమిడ్చిన మలుపులు ప్రతి ఒక్కరినీ ఆకట్టుకుంటాయి.

సిద్ధు ప్రపంచాన్ని పరిచయం చేస్తూ సినిమాని ప్రారంభించిన తీరు ఫర్వాలేదనిపిస్తుంది. ప్రీతి చేతిలో తను మోసపోయిన తీరు ఫన్నీగా అనిపిస్తుంది. అతడు నందిని డైరీ చదవడం ప్రారంభించాకే.. అసలు కథ మొదలవుతుంది. నందిని పాత్ర పరిచయ సన్నివేశాలు చాలా సింపుల్‌గా.. ఆకట్టుకునేలా ఉంటాయి. సెల్‌ఫోన్లకు.. సామాజిక మాధ్యమాలకు అతుక్కుపోయి జీవిస్తున్న ఈ తరానికి నందిని పాత్ర కొత్త అనుభూతిని పంచుతుంది. అలాంటి జీవనాన్ని మనమూ అలవర్చుకుంటే బాగుంటుంది కదా అనిపిస్తుంది. ఆ డైరీ చదువుతూ.. సిద్ధు ఆమెతో ప్రేమలో పడటం.. ఆమెలా జీవించే ప్రయత్నం చేయడం వంటి సన్నివేశాలతో సినిమా చక్కగా సాగిపోతుంటుంది. నిజానికి నందిని కథ గతంలోనూ.. సిద్ధు కథ వర్తమానంలోనూ సాగుతున్నా.. ప్రేక్షకులు ఎలాంటి కన్ఫ్యూజన్‌ లేకుండా ఆ కథలతో ప్రయాణం చేసేస్తుంటారు. విరామానికి ముందు వచ్చే ట్విస్ట్‌ ద్వితీయార్ధంపై ఆసక్తి రేకెత్తించేలా చేస్తుంది. నందిని లేదని తెలిశాక.. డైరీ ఆధారంగా సిద్ధు ఆమెను వెతుక్కుంటూ చేసే ప్రయాణం మెప్పిస్తుంది. ఓ దశలో సినిమా థ్రిల్లర్‌ జానర్‌లోకి మారుతున్నట్టు అనిపిస్తుంది. నందిని యాక్సిడెంట్‌కు.. తను తీసుకొచ్చిన కవర్‌కు లింక్‌ ఉందని తెలిశాక అందులో ఏముందో తెలుసుకోవాలన్న ఆసక్తి ప్రేక్షకుల్లోనూ పెరుగుతుంది. కానీ, ఆ తర్వాత నుంచి సాగే కథ కాస్త గందరగోళంగా.. లాజిక్‌కు దూరంగా వెళ్తుందనే భావన కలుగుతుంది. పతాక సన్నివేశాలు థ్రిల్లింగ్‌గానే అనిపిస్తాయి. భావోద్వేగభరితంగా సినిమాని ముగించిన తీరు మెప్పిస్తుంది.

ఎవరెలా చేశారంటే: సిద్ధు పాత్రలో లవర్‌ బాయ్‌లా క్యూట్‌గా కనిపించారు నిఖిల్‌. కంటికి కనిపించని అమ్మాయిని ప్రేమిస్తూ.. ఆమె రాతల్లో తనని భౌతికంగా చూస్తున్నట్లు ఫీలవుతూ.. అతడు పండించిన భావోద్వేగాలు ఆకట్టుకుంటాయి. నందిని పాత్రలో ఎంతో చక్కగా ఒదిగిపోయింది అనుపమ. ఆమె పాత్రను తీర్చిదిద్దిన తీరు.. ప్రేక్షకులకు కొత్త అనుభూతిని పంచుతుంది. సెల్‌ఫోనే ప్రపంచంగా బతుకుతున్న ఈతరం యువతకు ఆమె పాత్రతో మంచి సందేశమిచ్చారు దర్శకుడు. అలాగే ప్రేమ విఫలమైనప్పుడు దాన్ని ఎలా తీసుకోవాలన్నదీ సిద్ధు పాత్రతో చక్కగా చెప్పారు. సిద్ధు స్నేహితురాలిగా భాగీ పాత్రలో సరయు నటన ఆకట్టుకుంది. ఆమె కొన్ని సన్నివేశాల్లో తనదైన పంచ్‌లతో నవ్వించే ప్రయత్నం చేసింది. పోసాని కృష్ణ మురళి, అజయ్, దినేష్‌ తేజ్, శత్రుల పాత్రలు చిన్నవే అయినా ఉన్నంతలో ఆకట్టుకునేలా చేశారు. లవ్‌స్టోరీకి కాస్తంత థ్రిల్లర్‌ టచ్‌ ఇస్తూ.. అందులో ఈతరానికి అవసరమైన సందేశాల్ని దట్టించి దర్శకుడు సుకుమార్‌ రాసుకున్న కథ బాగుంది. దాన్ని ఆద్యంతం ఆకట్టుకునేలా ఎంతో చక్కగా తెరపై ఆవిష్కరించారు సూర్య ప్రతాప్‌. గోపీ సుందర్‌ పాటలు, నేపథ్య సంగీతం కథకు మరింత బలాన్ని అందించాయి. ఛాయాగ్రహణం మరో ప్రధాన ఆకర్షణగా నిలిచింది. నిర్మాణ విలువలు ఉన్నతంగా ఉన్నాయి.

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గమనిక: ఈనాడు.నెట్‌లో కనిపించే వ్యాపార ప్రకటనలు వివిధ దేశాల్లోని వ్యాపారస్తులు, సంస్థల నుంచి వస్తాయి. కొన్ని ప్రకటనలు పాఠకుల అభిరుచిననుసరించి కృత్రిమ మేధస్సుతో పంపబడతాయి. పాఠకులు తగిన జాగ్రత్త వహించి, ఉత్పత్తులు లేదా సేవల గురించి సముచిత విచారణ చేసి కొనుగోలు చేయాలి. ఆయా ఉత్పత్తులు / సేవల నాణ్యత లేదా లోపాలకు ఈనాడు యాజమాన్యం బాధ్యత వహించదు. ఈ విషయంలో ఉత్తర ప్రత్యుత్తరాలకి తావు లేదు.

రివ్యూ: ప్రణయ విలాసం.. ‘ప్రేమలు’ హీరోయిన్‌ నటించిన సినిమా ఎలా ఉందంటే?

రివ్యూ : బాక్‌.. తమన్నా, రాశీఖన్నాల హారర్‌ మూవీ ఎలా ఉంది

రివ్యూ: ఆ ఒక్కటీ అడక్కు.. అల్లరి నరేష్‌ ఖాతాలో హిట్‌ పడిందా?

రివ్యూ: శబరి.. వరలక్ష్మీ శరత్‌కుమార్‌ నటించిన థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: ప్రసన్నవదనం.. సుహాస్‌ ఖాతాలో హిట్‌ పడిందా?

రివ్యూ హీరామండి: ది డైమండ్‌ బజార్‌.. సంజయ్‌లీలా భన్సాలీ ఫస్ట్‌ వెబ్‌సిరీస్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: క్రాక్‌.. విద్యుత్‌ జమ్వాల్‌ స్పోర్ట్స్‌ యాక్షన్‌ ఫిల్మ్‌ ఎలా ఉందంటే?

రివ్యూ: రత్నం.. విశాల్‌ నటించిన యాక్షన్‌ డ్రామా మెప్పించిందా?

రివ్యూ: ఆర్టికల్‌ 370.. యామి గౌతమ్‌, ప్రియమణి నటించిన పొలిటికల్‌ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: మై డియర్‌ దొంగ.. అభినవ్‌ గోమఠం నటించిన సినిమా ఎలా ఉందంటే?

రివ్యూ: సైరెన్‌.. జయం రవి, కీర్తి సురేశ్‌ యాక్షన్‌ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: పారిజాత పర్వం.. క్రైమ్‌ కామెడీ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: ఆట్టం.. మలయాళ సస్పెన్స్‌ డ్రామా ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: డియర్‌.. భార్య గురకపెట్టే కాన్సెప్ట్‌తో రూపొందిన ఈ మూవీ మెప్పించిందా?

రివ్యూ: శ్రీ రంగ‌నీతులు.. సుహాస్‌, కార్తీక్‌ రత్నంల కొత్త మూవీ మెప్పించిందా?

రివ్యూ: బ‌డే మియా ఛోటే మియా.. అక్షయ్‌, టైగర్‌ ష్రాఫ్‌ నటించిన యాక్షన్‌ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: గీతాంజలి మళ్ళీ వచ్చింది.. హారర్‌ కామెడీ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: లవ్‌గురు.. విజయ్‌ ఆంటోనీ మూవీ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: మైదాన్‌.. అజయ్‌ దేవ్‌గణ్‌ కీలక పాత్రలో నటించిన స్పోర్ట్స్‌ డ్రామా మెప్పించిందా?

రివ్యూ: ప్రాజెక్ట్‌-Z.. సందీప్‌ కిషన్‌, లావణ్య త్రిపాఠి సైన్స్‌ ఫిక్షన్‌ థ్రిల్లర్‌ ఎలా ఉంది?

రివ్యూ: మంజుమ్మ‌ల్ బాయ్స్‌.. మలయాళ సూపర్‌హిట్‌ తెలుగులో ఎలా ఉంది?

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• Home » Movies » 18 Pages Movie Review

18 Pages review: Familiar terrain but these pages are worth a read

In spite of the second-half bumps, there is still quite a lot to like in this Nikhil Siddhartha and Anupama Parameswaran starrer.

Published:Dec 26, 2022

In spite of the loose second half, Palnati Surya Pratap's '18 Pages' is worth a watch. (actor_Nikhil/Twitter)

Sarayu Roy shines bright as Nikhil's friend.

18 Pages (Telugu)

• Cast: Nikhil Siddhartha, Anupama Parameswaran, Sarayu Roy, Ajay, Dinesh Tej, Brahmaji, Posani Krishna Murali, and Raj Tirandasu
• Director: Palnati Surya Pratap
• Producers: Bunny Vas, Sukumar Writings and GA2 Pictures
• Music: Gopi Sundar
• Runtime: 2 hours 17 minutes
• Cast: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Emraan Hashmi, and Revathy
• Director: Maneesh Sharma
• Producer: Aditya Chopra
• Music: Pritam Chakraborty
• Runtime: 2 hours 35 minutes

Stories of lead pair falling for each other without even meeting isn’t new. Ajith-starrer Prema Lekha is an example.

Therefore, as a writer, one needs to bring something new to the table within these familiarities.

Sukumar is someone who is known for a distinctive style of storytelling, both what he produced and what he directed. In 18 Pages too, as a writer, Sukumar integrates certain important social topics like how social media is affecting human bonding.

It is not an easy task for both the writer and director to present a love story where the hero and heroine don’t have a combination scene for the most part.

In spite of that, 18 Pages keeps you invested even when the film goes off the rail in the second half.

The film begins with the introduction of an app developer, Siddhu (Nikhil Siddartha). Siddhu is in a solid relationship and he wants to take it to the next level. He decides to surprise his girlfriend but he gets a shock in return.

The incident pushes him into depression. Siddhu starts getting into the habit of drinking and losing his temper. In this situation, he comes across a diary written by Nandini (Anupama Parameswaran) who is vastly different from Siddhu, in terms of using technology.

Siddhu learns many interesting things about Nandini and not surprisingly, falls for her. His personality also undergoes a sea change.

From a technology addict, he starts giving more importance to human interactions. The diary ends on the 18th page, leaving Siddhu eager to meet Nandini.

Also Read: Kaikala Satyanarayana – The favourite Yama of Tollywood and Telugu audience

He is egged on by his friend played by Saruyu. However, he faces the biggest shock of his life after going to Nandini’s village. Her grandmother tells Siddhu that she died in a car accident a couple of years ago.

The rest of the story is about what exactly happened to Nandini and whether she is really dead. If not dead, is Siddhu able to meet her is one question that keeps us invested in the film till the end.

Siddhu’s search for Nandini is also reminiscent of the Sharwanand and Allari Naresh-starrer Gamyam .

Look who are Happy And Dancing 🔥❤️ #18Pages Producers #AlluAravind sir and @aryasukku 🔥🔥 @anupamahere Thanks to the Audience for Showering Love on this Cute Warm Film 🙏🏽 #AboutLastNight #18PagesSuccessParty @GeethaArts @SukumarWritings pic.twitter.com/by2CuXoxS9 — Nikhil Siddhartha (@actor_Nikhil) December 25, 2022

18 P ages wastes no time in setting up the personality of its leading man. Director Palnati Surya Pratap makes you feel Siddhu’s heartbreak. And as an audience, you want him to find his love.

Anupama Parameswaran and Nikhil Siddhartha in ’18 Pages’. (actor_Nikhil/Twitter)

The film becomes even more interesting with the arrival of the diary. The romantic chemistry between the lead pair is pretty much visible, even though it is only at the end of the movie that they meet.

After Karthikeya 2 , Nikhil is once again in good form. He portrays the transition of Siddhu convincingly.

The scenes between Nikhil and Saruyu are another major asset of 18 Pages . Their camaraderie and the bond of friendship come across strongly.

Indeed, Sarayu shines the brightest in the supporting cast without any questions. Her scenes with Nikhil can be watched on repeat mode.

The simplicity of Nandini is a little overdone but Anupama Parameswaran manages to make it work with her acting. It is to Anupama’s credit that the audiences are still invested in what happened to her.

Thanks for the love♥️🥹 pic.twitter.com/jIAtBNMtDS — Anupama Parameswaran (@anupamahere) December 24, 2022

Music by Gopi Sundar is another big driving point. Most of the songs have a melodious feel which takes the story forward.

The first half has the perfect mixture of light and dramatic portions. The interval bang raises the expectations for an equally engaging second half.

However, it is in the second half that the flick starts slipping. The suspense involving Anupama’s character needed to be better etched.

Palnati Surya Pratap’s ’18 Pages’ makes for a good watch. (actor_Nikhil/Twitter)

The drawbacks

The flashback portions are fine but need to be stronger. The villains headed by Bramhaji and Ajay aren’t menacing enough. They come as regular villains with zero personality.

The proceedings slow down considerably in the last thirty minutes. As an audience, you want the ending to come quickly.

In spite of the loose second half, 18 Pages is still worth a watch, particularly for the actors’ performances.

To sum it up, 18 Pages isn’t a seamless combination of romance and thrills. But then, it makes for a good watch.

Team #18Pages received a MASSIVE response during the theaters visit today in Hyderabad, HOUSEFULLS ALL OVER the city💥 Don’t miss the experience of crazy love story on big screens now.❤️ @aryasukku @actor_Nikhil @anupamahere @dirsuryapratap @GopiSundarOffl #BunnyVas @idineshtej pic.twitter.com/4KCiJN3COa — Geetha Arts (@GeethaArts) December 25, 2022

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• Cast & crew
• User reviews

Nandini, a young woman who loves living an orthodox life without being bound to technology uses a diary to keep track of her life. But, when her diary is lost, Sidhu finds it. Drawn to the p... Read all Nandini, a young woman who loves living an orthodox life without being bound to technology uses a diary to keep track of her life. But, when her diary is lost, Sidhu finds it. Drawn to the person he reads about, he sets out to find her. Nandini, a young woman who loves living an orthodox life without being bound to technology uses a diary to keep track of her life. But, when her diary is lost, Sidhu finds it. Drawn to the person he reads about, he sets out to find her.

• Palnati Surya Pratap
• Srikanth Vissa
• Anupama Parameswaran
• Nikhil Siddharth
• Raj Tirandasu
• 39 User reviews
• 3 Critic reviews

• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

More like this

Did you know

• Goofs During a scene where heroine and her friend are seen driving a dark blue car and in the next scene they are seen in a grey car of different make and model.
• Soundtracks Nannaya Raasina Music by Gopi Sundar Lyrics by Sree Mani Performed by Prudhvi Chandra , Sithara Krishnakumar

User reviews 39

• Jan 28, 2023
• How long is 18 Pages? Powered by Alexa
• December 23, 2022 (India)
• GA2 Pictures
• Sukumar Writings
• See more company credits at IMDbPro

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 15 minutes
• Dolby Atmos

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18 Pages Movie Review

Article by Nanda Gopal Published by GulteDesk --> Published on: 2:05 pm, 23 December 2022

2 Hrs 17 Mins   |   Love   |   23-12-2022

Cast - Nikhil Siddhartha, Anupama Parameswaran

Director - Palnati Surya Pratap

Producer - Bunny Vas

Banner - GA2 Pictures, Sukumar Writings

Music - Gopi Sundar

Nikhil Siddhartha scored national success with devotional thriller Karthikeya 2. He along with Anupama have come up with 18 Pages, the story by Sukumar and helmed by Kumari 21F director. In his decade-and-half old career, Nikhil opted for a complete love story. This raises curiosity on what made him so impressive about this film. Gopi Sundar’s music and Geetha Arts production make 18 Pages an interesting film to watch out for despite getting delayed for long. Has Nikhil and Anupama continued their success streak? Find out.

Siddhu (Nikhil Siddhartha), an app developer, is a jilted lover who comes across a random two-year-old dairy on the street that belongs to Nandini (Anupama Parameswaran). Siddhu learns interesting things about Nandini’s world and completely falls for her. Mystery begins to unravel as Siddhu tries to dig more about Nandini’s whereabouts. What happened to Nandini? Did Siddhu ever meet Nandini? This is what 18 pages is all about.

Performances Nikhil yet again proves he has a knack over picking good stories. He keeps his reputation with 18 Pages. He shines as Siddhu. No doubt, it is the story of Nandita (Anupama Parameswaran), but Siddhu takes the centre stage and carries the film on his shoulders. Anupama is the perfect cast for Nandini. She scores in emotional scenes. Sarayu as Bhagi gets a notable side character as the hero’s friend. Dinesh Tej as doctor Sandeep has a role that helps in taking forward the film at crucial junctures. Posani Krishna Murali as a lawyer is alright. Ajay is the main villain in the film and he makes an impact notwithstanding the less screen presence. Goparaju Ramana as bus conductor Ramakrishna too has an important role too. The film has small characters with importance in the story which rarely happens. Kudos to writer Sukumar and director Pratap.

Technicalities Master craftsman Sukumar unleashed his true potential as a writer with the story of 18 Pages. His writing strength is conspicuous. Kumari 21F fame Surya Pratap helmed it well. Gopi Sundar’s music is impressive. Couple of songs are good. Technically, 18 Pages doesn’t have any glaring mistakes. It has some pace issues and its climax drags. But they can be forgiven.

Thumbs Up Nikhil & Anupama Sukumar’s Story Emotional Depth

Thumbs Down Back and Forth Narration Draggy Climax

18 Pages seems to have some distant similarities to Ajith and Devayani’s Prema Lekha. Also, one can’t help but recall some old films of hero and heroine loving each other anonymously without meeting. This film belongs to the same legion. Albeit, 18 Pages is a different film owing to a hidden crime thriller perfectly blended into it. Sukumar’s writing is the strength of the film. The tension and suspense is built well. The film makes the audience engrossed and involved into the story totally. It is where the film scores. The lead pair played their parts well too. The emotional depth in the story has worked well too.

The screenplay of 18 pages is non-linear. It is the best way to narrate this story. However, this back-and-forth narration becomes so much that it puts us off at some portions since it disconnects the audience emotionally from the story of Nandini. The first of the film sets the interest on Nandini by revealing minute details one after the other. The second half is all about unraveling the mysteries and Nandini’s pending good deeds completed by Siddhu. It goes down a familiar path, but it never gets boring. The film’s tone and mood is intact throughout the film without any distractions. Nowhere, the film doesn’t deviate from its main story.

The film picks up the pace with the lead actor’s smart investigation into mystery. This delves audiences into the hidden crime angle. Though the climax portion drags and drags, it keeps the viewers hooked to screens till the last scene. This shows how one wants Siddhu and Nandini together. It caters to those who believe in love. Some dialogues are very well-written. Quotes on love also connecting. Gopi Sundar’s music and background score is impressive. The climax is a bit draggy. Overall, 18 Pages has its moments despite having pace issues. Yet, the film is a heart-touching love story with its soul in the right place. This love story of Siddhu and Nandini tug at the heartstrings. It is worth a watch.

Bottom-line: Emotional Yet Engaging!

Rating: 2.75/5

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What’s it about?

Siddhu (Nikhil Siddharth), an app developer, is dumped by his girlfriend. Siddhu is broken by this incident and loses interest in life, but he becomes engrossed in a dairy that he stumbles upon by accident. Nandini (Anupama Parameswaran) keeps a diary in 2019.

Nandini, who travels from Vijayanagaram to Hyderabad to deliver a letter to someone, keeps a diary of her daily activities. She does not have a smartphone or any apps. Siddhu falls in love with her while reading her diary and begins to carry on the mission where she left off.

After a few pages, there is nothing left in the dairy. What actually occurred? Can two people fall in love without seeing each other or meeting?

Director Sukumar wrote the story of ’18 Pages,’ which deals with a very familiar line: two people who have never met before fell in love thanks to a diary. The romantic drama, directed by Palnati Surya Pratap of ‘Kumari 21F,’ begins and ends well, but the post-interval sequences are aimless.

Although there are some parallels with the 2014 Thai film “The Teacher’s Diary,” in “18 Pages,” the hero and heroine never actually meet until a pivotal moment. This is unique in some ways.

But there is a major flaw in this film. The central theme of a guy falling in love with a girl reading a diary and searching for her without a phone is difficult to accept. It is especially inappropriate for the year 2021/22. The heroine travels to Hyderabad to meet with a man named Venkat Rao. Although the heroine does not have a mobile phone, Venkat Rao can be reached by phone. Instead of waiting for Venkat Rao, she can easily call him using another person’s phone. The film is rife with logical issues and plot-convenient elements.

Anupama is the archetypal movie heroine: a pure and virtuous angel. It’s hard not to laugh at Nikhil’s antics after reading an old diary. The film suffers from numerous instances of illogic. The storyline involving Nikhil’s grandfather also feels forced.

Nikhil is totally immersed in his character. When she performs, Anupama Parameswaran has a way of keeping the audience captivated. Sarayu, as Nikhil’s friend, is given some prominence.

Gopi Sundar’s music is a major highlight. All songs fit the theme, but two in particular stand out: Nannaya Raasina and Nee Valla O Pilla.

Bottom line: The first half of ’18 Pages’ is entertaining to watch, but then logic and other issues emerge. Gopi Sundar’s songs keep us interested. The basic setting, on the other hand, lacks a contemporary feel.

Rating: 2.5/5

By Jalapathy Gudelli

Film: 18 Pages Cast: Nikhil Siddhartha, Anupama Parameswaran, Ajay, Brahmaji, and others Story, Screenplay: Sukumar Music: Gopi Sundar DOP: A Vasanth Editor: Naveen Nooli Producer: Bunny Vaas Directed by: Palnati Surya Pratap Release Date: Dec 23, 2022 

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Priyamani begins ‘the family man 3’, vijay deverakonda’s period drama shoot resumed, weekend box office: ‘aa okkati adakku’ fails miserably, i was offered big money than srk: pawan kalyan, ‘bharateeyudu 2’ to be released on july 18th, related stories, disha patani’s thailand vacation: sizzles in bikini, ‘game changer’ focuses on mini ‘schedules’, ‘salaar 2’ will begin without prabhas this month, aa okkati adakku review: a total dud, prasanna vadanam review: has a fair number of twists.

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Release Date : December 23, 2022

123telugu.com Rating : 3/5

Starring: Nikhil Siddhartha, Anupama Parameswaran, Dinesh Tej, Ajay, Posani Krishna Murali, Brahmaji, Sarayu Roy

Director: Palnati Surya Pratap

Producer: Bunny Vas

Music Director: Gopi Sundar

Cinematography: A. Vasanth

Editor: Naveen Nooli

Related Links : Trailer

Nikhil and Anupama Parameswaran, who scored a mighty blockbuster with Karthikeya 2, has again paired for 18 Pages. Director Sukumar penned the film’s plot, and it is directed by Surya Pratap. The film has hit the screens today, and let’s see how it is.

Siddhu (Nikhil Siddharth), an app developer loves a girl but she cheats on him. This pushes Siddhu into depression and during this he comes across Nandhini’s (Anupama Parameswaran) diary on a road. Siddhu starts reading it and slowly he falls for her. Siddhu learns many interesting facts about Nandhini and when he tries to meet her a big twist comes into the tale. What is it? Did he meet her? Did Siddhu express his feelings for Nandhini? This forms the crux of the film.

Plus Points:

A few films have come in the past in which the lead pair falls for each other without meeting. 18 Pages fall in the same category and the makers succeed in showcasing the romantic aspect fairly. In these modern times, it is difficult to showcase love without having combo scenes of the lead pair, but Sukumar’s plot has good moments which makes the audience engaged.

One can feel the chemistry between Nikhil and Anupama though they don’t meet till the very end. The writing here is well-balanced with fun and love portions. Songs drive the narrative and they are well-placed with meaningful lyrics. The director has designed the first half in a breezy and simple manner with good comedy portions. The climax again is sweet and simple which worked well.

Nikhil once again has chosen a different script and the actor has given a neat performance. He is too good in the funny sequences and the emotional scenes showcase the actor inside him. Anupama Parameswaran is natural in Nandhini’s role and one roots for her character from her first scene. She is convincing as a small-town girl and her scenes are well-written.

Sarayu gets a good full-length role and does well. Also, a few important social aspects like how social media and mobiles are affecting human bonding and interactions are portrayed quite nicely. There is a small sequence where Nikhil says one needs to give their time to their aged parents which has inner depth.

Minus Points:

While the first half is quite endearing with good magical moments, the graph drops in the second half. The proceedings are quite slow here and the moments are underwhelming. Naturally one expects a solid second half but the way things turn out is not much impressive.

There is a suspense factor involved with Anupama’s character which becomes very generic after a point in time. The flashback is pretty routine and the momentum is not maintained during this particular episode. The thrilling elements lack punch and hence the film turns monotonous in places. Ajay and Shatru’s characters don’t have much significance and they play regular villains.

Technical Aspects:

Every song in the film is well composed by Gopi Sundar and the background score is also enchanting. The production values are fair, but the editing needed a few improvements, especially in the second half. The cinematography by Vasanth is fine and the songs are nicely picturized. There are a few dubbing issues here and there affecting the viewing experience.

Coming to director Surya Pratap, he did a decent job with the film. He was successful in bringing the best out of the lead pair but could have been a bit cautious regarding the suspense portions and a few key sequences. Director Sukumar has penned a feel-good story and shows his mark in a few junctures.

On the whole, 18 Pages is a decent love story that offers a different feel to the viewers. Apart from the exceptional performances of the lead pair, a few relevant topics are also touched upon. The way the film runs on a light-hearted note for the most part is good. If one can ignore the slightly slow second half and routine flashback portions, the film ends up a decent watch this weekend.

123telugu.com Rating: 3/5

Reviewed by 123telugu Team

Click Here For Telugu Review

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'18 pages' movie review: Heartfelt as a drama, engrossing as a thriller

The opening scene of any film is sacrosanct. There’s a particular joy in discerning that the filmmaker is trying to punctuate the film’s themes seconds after the first frame comes up. It happens in 18 Pages when we first see Siddhu (a confident Nikhil Siddhartha), in his dim bedroom, with the screen of his phone lighting up his face. The rock score in the background might announce the introduction of a ‘hero’ but here’s a man whose entire life seems to be only lit up by his phone, like many of us. We then see his activities—from using the toilet to walking on the road, albeit recklessly— with his phone as a constant companion. He is constantly in touch with his girlfriend virtually.

The opening few minutes, even if they spell it out with no subtlety, neatly set up his character and paint a clear picture of the contrast we will eventually see once the conflict is introduced. Expectedly, when his lover breaks his heart, Siddhu is pushed into darkness and this time, he needs some real light—not the one from his phone—to bring him out of the sorrow. And it happens when he stumbles upon a dusted, two-year-old journal that introduces him to Nandhini (a fabulous Anupama Parameswaran). Her words from the past begin to influence his present and what follows is a tale that is about love and many larger and deeper themes.

On an idea level, 18 Pages might seem a little conventional. In fact, going the old-school way is one of the primary themes of the film. At points, it does remind you of those ‘90s films in which the leads fall in love by posting letters to each other, or films where the couple are unaware of their identities till the very end. Do you get an idea? Although its ideas might be old-school, 18 Pages is a timely film that posits a timely, modern conundrum in our lives: lack of human interaction. And the film spins its whole script around this concept, without ever getting preachy.

Sukumar’s script uses many elements, from Siddhu’s profession—which involves virtual interaction—to a minor but terrific character, that of a young boy who sells pens at a traffic signal, to make its point and this paves way for some beautiful moments teeming with love and kindness. Nandhini, the polar opposite of Siddhu, believes in living life rather than simply navigating through it. She doesn’t use a phone. Her introduction is pleasantly done and although it’s done verbally (it is a verbose film and voice-overs play a major role, considering journaling is a central theme), it encapsulates everything about her, the way she perceives life, and how she processes every tiny thing. It is, in a way, Nandhini’s movie—the frame freezes when she smiles at the camera and then the title appears.

In fact, the film is sprinkled with such lovely, heartfelt moments stemming out of the script’s attempts to underline the importance of forging a human bond. The character of a bus conductor (played by Middle-Class Melodies-fame Goparaju Ramana) is one of the best things in the film, both as a plot device and as a means to present the humane attribute in the script. His brief interaction with Nandhini and how this dynamic is later used to further the plot is one of the best facets of Sukumar’s script. On the strength of Sukumar’s script, Palnati Surya Pratap does try to incorporate many elements—in the form of characters and sub-plots—but never chews more than what he can bite and gives closure to all the arcs.

While the script does answer most of your questions, especially after it ventures into the thriller territory, it does leave some questions but thankfully, they are not glaring. The script also bridges the tonal unevenness smoothly and one really doesn’t really feel distracted when the film jumps from being a feel-good romance (although it is not a romance) at one point to a serious thriller, and then back to a light-hearted zone.

The film’s biggest strength is perhaps its ability to sell both the lightness and darkness with ease. As a drama, it is heartfelt and encourages you to ponder on your relationships; Siddhu’s non-relationship with Nandhini also leads to a couple of hilarious gags. And when it’s a thriller, you are really invested in it and crave to know more about it. And one has to mention Navin Nooli’s editing. At first, they effectively juxtapose the lives of these two distinct humans and then slowly begin to draw parallels between them. 18 Pages is one of those films in which editing and storytelling are inseparable and complement each other.

It’s fitting that a character identifies Nandhini with a crossword puzzle. She really is a puzzle, one that Siddhu and 18 Pages try to solve. And 18 Pages is really as engaging and satisfying as solving a puzzle.

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18 Pages Movie Review & Rating

• December 24, 2022 / 12:01 AM IST

Cast & Crew

• Nikhil Siddhartha (Hero)
• Anupama Parameswaran (Heroine)
• Dinesh Tej ,Ajay , Posani Krishna Murali , Brahmaji , Sarayu Roy (Cast)
• Palnati Surya Pratap (Director)
• Bunny Vas , Sukumar , Allu Aravind (Producer)
• Gopi Sundar (Music)
• A. Vasanth (Cinematography)

Nikhil Siddhartha and Anupama Parameswaran’s romantic love drama, 18 Pages had a theatrical release today. Let’s see how it fares.

Story: Siddharth ( Nikhil) an app developer by profession finds a Diary roadside in a drunken condition. Later, he opens it and starts reading and comes to know that the diary was written by a girl named Nandini( Anupama Parmeswaran) 2 years back in 2019. During the reading process, Siddhu falls in love with Nandini and starts searching for her in reality. Will Siddhu find whereabouts of Nandini? What is the role of Dr Sandeep (Dinesh Tej) in the entire setup? What is the backstory of Nandini, forms the crucial crux.

Performances: Nikhil is fine with his usual acting as a guy who is search of his soulmate. His acting during the second half proceedings bring depth to the narrative.

Heroine Anupama Parmeswaran is main attraction for this romantic love drama. Her makeover as an innocent girl is good and gave effortless acting in the character that has scope perform. The virtual chemistry between the lead pair is showcased nicely.

Arjun Kalyan is decent in his role as a doctor. His conversation scenes with Anupama’s character add weightage to a few key scenes. Bigg Boss fame Sarayu gets a meaty role as hero’s best buddy. Her role has proper justification.

Actors such as Shatru and Ajay are okay in their negative shaded roles. Padding artists such as Goparaju Ramana among others are fine in their limited roles.

Technicalities: Gopi Sundar’s music registers. Be it songs or background score, Gopi Sundar delivered quality output for the film. Three montage songs are shot nicely.

The photography work by A Vasanth is top-notch. His work is visible on screen. The texture of the film is showcased superbly. Editing by Naveen Nooli is fine.

Dubbing work looks disturbed in a few scenes. The team would have rechecked the final copy properly to avoid it. Production design work is good and so is the case with the production values.

Analysis: While star director Sukumar provided story, screenplay and dialogues, his mentor Palnati Surya Pratap directs 18 Pages. The film has a fresh concept that is related to two different time zones.

Though the theme is nice, the entire first half runs on a slow note with some artificial emotions. The cinematic liberty used during this time will definitely divert the audience mood. Till interval, the film has no solid connectivity.

But surprisingly, the film starts picking up the pace in the second half where the hero starts intense search for the heroine. The emotional scenes which come during this time are executed neatly. To summerize, 18 Pages is a romantic love drama that has soul in it. Though the narrative has a few cliches, overall it will end up as a satisfactory watch.

Verdict: Engaging romance!

Rating: 3/5

• #Allu Aravind
• #Anupama Parameswaran
• #Nikhil Siddhartha
• #Palnati Surya Pratap

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