Gang Leader Review

Family drama was the hottest theme when this movie released in 1991, but this was without a doubt the best of the lot. Gang Leader started off to a rather lukewarm response, but went on to become a mega-hit. Though it did not have a different storyline, it was the presentation and the talent of the cast that made the film a complete family entertainer. The pairing of Chiranjeevi and Vijayshanti was ideal, and their performances are still remembered.

The story revolves around a middle class joint family and the joys and sorrows that they go through. A mother, three brothers, a devoted daughter-in-law and two cute kids are living life together and facing its challenges. Chiranjeevi plays the youngest brother who loves life and spends most of his time with his friends but dotes on his family. The eldest brother runs the family, working hard as a government servant, the second is studying hard to be an IAS officer. In spite of all the hardships, they are a happy united family.

Trouble begins when the eldest brother witnesses a murder. He is hounded by the murderers and killed. And the second brother ends up marrying the daughter of one of the killers. Chiranjeevi's friends are the only witnesses to this crime, but remain silent to protect their friend from doing anything rash. Meanwhile, misunderstandings begin and the happy family is destroyed. How these misunderstandings are cleared and the culprits are brought to justice makes up the rest of the movie.

With a cast comprising the two Telugu superstars and several veteran actors like Murali Mohan, Rao Gopala Rao, Allu Ramalingayya and Nirmala, you could hardly expect anything less than good performances. Vijayshanti is Chiranjeevi's lady love who supports him through it all. There is plenty of comedy in the movie, both by the villain's sidekicks and by the lead stars themselves. Chiranjeevi's fine flair for comic comes out pretty well in the first half.

The songs were big hits, all of them. The direction and narration are superb and the music is excellent. The entire crew chipped in with good performances, and that was what made Gang Leader a super hit.