Unusual Telugu films shone in 2013 first half

Even with blockbusters such as "Baadshah" and "Nayak" featuring star actors, the Telugu film industry managed to impress audiences and critics alike with creative and unusual films such as "Case no 666/2013".

Out of the almost 50 Telugu films released in six months, IANS lists five that stood out and kept the audiences entertained.

"Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu": It's one of those rare big-budget multi-starrer films that didn't reek of commercialism, punch-dialogues or unwanted item numbers. It is a simply told story, set against the backdrop of a small town, and revolving around characters with differences. Backed by mellifluous tunes of Micky J. Meyer and Srikanth Addala's brilliant screenplay, this film was one of the best family dramas of recent times.

"Case no 666/2013": Some panned it as a clean rip off of several English films in the found footage genre, but in reality, this film is a brave attempt that breaks the cliches of Telugu cinema. The entire film hovers constantly between two genres - horror and thriller, and therefore allows audiences to experience plenty of edge-of-the-seat moments. It might have been commercially successful, but by Telugu cinema standards, this is a breakthrough film.

"Swamy Ra Ra": Another low-budget commercial hit that proved the power of content over cast and other factors. "Swamy Ra Ra" is a story about a stolen idol and a bunch of characters on the run for it. It works for three reasons - music, lead performances and its tongue-in-cheek-humour. Nikhil and Swati in their tailor-made roles shine like never before.

"Gunde Jaari Gallanthayyinde": It might be just another love story, but what differentiates this movie from any other film in the same language, is its style of presentation. Nithiin and Nithya hit it off so well after the success of "Ishq". A perfect blend of humour and romance makes this run-of-the-mill type of film, entertaining.

"Prema Katha Chitram": It's has been a year of small-budget wonders and "Prema Katha Chitram" is definitely one among them. The reason you find it good is because the quality of other films have been so bad. One of the other reasons you find it interesting is its ability to weave multiple genres and give audience a first-of-its-kind experience. The natural performances of the lead cast make it an even more enjoyable film.