The movie starts off just before the 2004 elections and showcases us the Padhayatra movement by late YS Rajashekar Reddy Garu and his journey until his untimely death. It showcases the various problems which influenced him in his emotional journey before the elections.
Mammootty is one of the finest actors in our country and he is at his best once again. He plays YSR with his usual subtleness and calmness contrary to YSR’s real-life firebrand image. He is at his usual best in this emotionally charged role. Rao Ramesh as KVP does a fine job and supports him ably. All the other actors have small and decent roles to play and have done their part accordingly.
Music by Kala Krishna Kumar is good and is in sync with the mood of the film. Lyrics by Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry are very good. Cinematography by Sathyan is very good and showcases the film brilliantly. Dialogues deserve a special mention. All the emotional dialogues are very good. Editing is ok while the production values are good.
Yatra starts off with terrific scenes showcasing the lead characterisation of YSR. All the real-life incidents have properly been translated on screen and they look very convincing. Credit for Mahi Raghav for maintaining the emotional depth throughout the film although he could have avoided few scenes with regards to the opposition party and could have avoided the footage of Jagan towards the end since it could easily draw political comparisons. This film is devoid of any commercial elements and kudos to the director for staying true to the task.
Mammootty
Music
Dialogues
Runtime
Slow paced narration
On the whole Mahi Raghav delivers a fitting emotional tribute to the mass leader in a very convincing way. Mammootty delivers one of his best and honest performances. Yatra is a must watch film for fans of YSR and will evoke mixed reactions from others.