Awe movie review highlights: An engaging ride so far

Nani's maiden production venture 'Awe' released today amidst high expectations. Directed by Prasanth Varma and starring Nani, Ravi Teja, Kajal Aggarwal, Nithya Menen, Regina Cassandra, Eesha Rebba, Srinivas Avasarala, Priyadarshi and Murli Sharma in lead roles, the film was described by the director as the 'Pulp Fiction of Tollywood'.The first half of 'Awe' introduces all its characters and sets up the pace for what's to come. Eesha Rebba and Nithya Menen seemingly play a couple, representing the LGBTQ community in a mature manner for probably the first time in Tollywood. Kajal Aggarwal plays a disturbed individual who seems to be deliberating if she should kill someone or not. Regina Cassandra is introduced right before interval as the druggie who seems to be embroiled in something shocking out of nowhere. Srinivas Avasarala and Devadarshini play two sides of a seemingly same coin.It is the bits involving Priyadarshi (a fake chef) and Nani, along with the Murli Sharma (a magician with a massive ego) that bring some humour into an otherwise serious film. The film, instead of focusing on one main character, emphases on various characters and their stories; almost all taking place inside a coffee shop. To reveal more would be a grave injustice to the film. Devoid of songs, except for the theme that plays during the intriguing titles, 'Awe', so far, has been a taut and engaging ride. It remains to be seen how the loose ends all tie up in the second half.