Grey: The Spy Who Loved Me Review: Raj Madiraju’s Spy Thriller Works But Only In Parts

The film took a sluggish opening at the box office.

The film took a sluggish opening at the box office.

The film created interest among the audience with its trailer and teaser.

Grey: The Spy Who Loved Me, a spy thriller helmed by Raj Madiraju, known for his highly acclaimed film Rushi in the past, has hit the theatres. Starring Arvind Krishna, Ali Raza and Urvashi Rai in pivotal roles, the film is the last release of late actor-director Pratap Pothen. Notably, the film is the first black-and-white Telugu film in forty-five years.

The film is produced by Kiran Kallakuri under Dwitiya Movies, which is also backing Raj Madiraju’s upcoming drama Krishna Rama.

From its opening credits, Gray explores the mysterious circumstances surrounding the deaths of renowned scientists such as Homi Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai. This gripping thriller delves into a world of ambition, lust and deceit, where each character hides their true identity. With its fearless dialogues, peppy musical score, stunning visuals and stellar performances, Grey’s offers a unique mix that will leave the audience craving for the extra thrill.

The director got the inspiration for the narrative after he faced reports of the mysterious disappearance of around 12 nuclear scientists in the country within a span of two years. Such incidents keep appearing from time to time in every decade. PVR Pictures has taken over the responsibility of distribution of the film in Telugu states. MR Chetan Kumar served as the cinematographer for this thriller, with music composed by Nagaraju Talluri, while editing was handled by Satya Giduthuri.

Late Pratap Pothen portrayed the role of an ISRO scientist and displayed his experience with ease. He enthralled the audience with his gestures, body language, delivery of dialogues and expressions. However, it is Urvashi Rai, who is making her debut in Tollywood, who plays the female lead in the film. She exudes glamor in sizzling scenes, confidently embodying the seductive nature required of her character, which includes intimate scenes and passionate liplocks.

Her presence on-screen during these sensuous moments undeniably commands attention. Ali Raza, best known for his appearance in Bigg Boss, gives a satisfying performance as Inspector Nayak, while Arvind Krishna portrays the character of Doctor Raghu effectively. Additionally, the film’s director, Raj Madiraju, plays a RAW agent.

Reflecting its unique subject matter, Gray achieved notable success on the festival circuit, winning prestigious accolades at renowned events such as the Budapest Film Festival, Jaipur Film Festival, Tagore International Film Festival, World Film Carnival in Singapore, Europe International Film Festival, Dada Is. Saheb Phalke Film Festival, Calcutta International Cult Film Festival, Asian Film Festival and Brazil International Film Festival, among others.