Synopsis
“Matka” is a 2024 Indian Telugu-language period action thriller directed by Karuna Kumar. The film stars Varun Tej as Vasu, Meenakshi Chaudhary as Sujatha, and Nora Fatehi as Sofia, marking her debut in Telugu cinema.
Plot Summary:
Set between 1958 and 1982 in Visakhapatnam, “Matka” chronicles the life of Vasu, a refugee from Burma who becomes a prominent figure in the underground gambling world. Initially engaging in petty crimes, Vasu’s life takes a significant turn when he is introduced to the game of Matka during a trip to Mumbai. Fascinated by the gambling system, he brings it back to Visakhapatnam, establishing a vast empire and earning the title of “Matka King.” However, his rapid ascent attracts the attention of law enforcement and rival criminals, leading to a series of challenges that threaten his dominion. The narrative delves into Vasu’s struggles to maintain his empire amidst increasing pressure from the Indian government and emerging adversaries.
Critical Reception:
Upon its release on November 14, 2024, “Matka” received mixed reviews. Critics praised Varun Tej’s portrayal of Vasu, highlighting his ability to embody the character’s evolution from a small-time criminal to a powerful gambling kingpin. The film’s production design and authentic depiction of the era were also commended. However, some reviewers pointed out that the storyline felt predictable, with familiar tropes of rise and fall in the criminal underworld. The screenplay was noted for lacking the necessary thrills and emotional depth to fully engage the audience.
Box Office Performance:
Despite the anticipation, “Matka” underperformed at the box office, grossing approximately ₹2.11 crore during its opening weekend. Factors contributing to its lukewarm performance included competition from other releases and the film’s mixed critical reception.
Conclusion:
“Matka” offers a glimpse into the historical gambling practices in India through the lens of Vasu’s tumultuous journey. While the film excels in its period-specific aesthetics and strong performances, it falls short in delivering a compelling and original narrative, resulting in a viewing experience that may not fully satisfy all audiences.
What was the budget for the movie "Matka"?
The budget for the movie "Matka" has been reported with varying figures. Some sources indicate a production budget of ₹50 crore, while others suggest it was made on an overall budget of ₹35 crore, inclusive of promotion costs. Additionally, a report mentions that a single production schedule in Hyderabad cost around ₹15 crore.
What is the running time or duration of the Matka?
The film "Matka" has a runtime of 2 hours and 39 minutes.
What is the original title of the movie "Matka"?
The movie "Matka" was initially titled "Bracket" before the name was changed during production.
Who wrote Matka?
"Matka" was written and directed by Karuna Kumar.
Original title మట్కా
IMDb Rating 5.1 158 votes
TMDb Rating 3.5 2 votes
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