Kishkindhapuri is a 2025 Telugu horror thriller starring Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas and Anupama Parameswaran, directed by Koushik Pegallapati. The film is set around ghost walking tours in the town of Kishkindhapuri and centers on supernatural occurrences at an abandoned radio station.
Review Summary
- Overall Impression: The film is considered a decent but somewhat mediocre horror thriller with a sincere attempt at delivering organic horror elements, avoiding comedic gimmicks. It has a strong atmosphere and some engaging moments, especially in the first half and certain episodes in the latter half, but the horror and emotional depth are considered underwhelming by many reviewers. The plot is often described as predictable and conventional, with some rushed segments and lack of emotional highs.
- Positive Aspects:
- Effective spooky atmosphere and genuinely scary moments without relying overly on background score
- Good production design and sound design that enhance the horror experience
- Strong performances from the lead actors, especially noted in specific key scenes like a hospital sequence
- Crisp focus on horror after an introductory phase with no sensory or narrative distractions
- Negative Aspects:
- Predictable and somewhat conventional ghost story plot
- The second half loses some momentum, with the horror elements and investigative thrill feeling lackluster
- Emotional arcs, including the protagonist's intrapersonal conflict, are not deeply explored
- Some scenes, including the initial portions, feel slow or ordinary
- Occasionally rushed revelations and underdeveloped character arcs
Technical Details
- Music and sound design by Chaitan Bharadwaj and Radhakrishna respectively were high points, enhancing the eerie mood and jump scares.
- Cinematography by Chinmay Salaskar and editing by Niranjan Devaramane contribute well, keeping the narrative moving at a mostly crisp pace without unnecessary diversions.
Rating Highlights
- 123telugu.com rated it 3/5, calling it a sincere effort with good technical values but some shortcomings in emotional and narrative depth.
- Other reviews gave around 2.5/5, pointing to decent production but lack of convincing plot and scares.
Verdict
Kishkindhapuri is recommended if the viewer is looking for an organic horror film with a straightforward premise and appreciates good technical work and sincere performances. It is less suited for those seeking strong emotional engagement or an innovative storyline. It stands as a fair, traditional horror thriller with some moments of effectiveness but overall moderate excitement and impact.