Simbaa Movie Review: Supernatural Thrills Meet Crime Drama in ‘Simbaa’

Cast: Jagapathi Babu, Anasuya Bharadwaj, Vashistha N. Simha, Divi Vadthya, Kabir Duhan Singh, Sreenath Maganti

Director: Murali Manohar

Music: Krishna Saurabh

Producers: Sampath Nandi, D. Rajendra Reddy

Release Date: 09-08-2024

The film ‘Simbaa,’ directed by Murali Manohar and featuring Jagapathi Babu and Anasuya Bharadwaj in key roles, falls under the supernatural crime thriller genre. This cinema has been co-produced by prominent directors Sampath Nandi and Dasari Rajendra Reddy and was released to audiences on August 9. Let’s evaluate the film’s impact and its reception among the viewers in this review.

Plot

In Hyderabad, a key figure from the Partha Group is murdered. During the investigation of this case, another individual from the same group is also killed. The police conclude that a school teacher, Akshika (Anasuya), and an investigative journalist, Fazil (Sreenath Maganti), are involved. They are arrested, but amidst their custody, another murder occurs in full view of everyone. A prominent doctor’s involvement complicates the case further. What is the motive behind these murders? Why are individuals associated with Partha (Kabir Singh) being targeted? What is the connection of the Forest Man, Purushottam Reddy (Jagapathi Babu), to these murders? What conflicts exist between him and Partha? The film must be watched to uncover these answers.

Performances

Jagapathi Babu, in the role of Purushottam Reddy, captures the audience with his commanding presence and excels in action sequences. Anasuya delivers a compelling performance as teacher Akshika, embodying her character flawlessly. Divi, Sreenath Maganti, and Vashistha Simha also engage well in their roles, with Vashistha Simha’s portrayal as the investigative officer being particularly notable. Senior actors Gautami and Kasturi add charm in secondary roles. Kabir, portraying the antagonist, was adequate. The rest of the cast performed well within their roles.

Direction

Director Murali Manohar has attempted to blend environmental themes into a crime and investigative story. The introduction of Anasuya’s character, the love track between Divi and Sreenath Maganti, and the dual murder events are well-handled in the first half. However, the police investigation scenes feel routine and lack logical progression. In the second half, Jagapathi Babu’s entrance as the Forest Man, emphasizing tree conservation and love for nature, brings thought-provoking scenes. Nonetheless, the lack of impactful dialogue means the director’s message doesn’t resonate strongly with the audience. The concept of ‘biological memory’ is intriguing in the film. A better presentation of the Forest Man episode could have enhanced the impact. Overall, although the movie’s concept is interesting, the director fails to effectively convey it to the audience.

Technically

On the technical front, Krishna Saurabh’s background music is a highlight, elevating several scenes effectively. Krishnaprasad’s cinematography is commendable, and the editing is adequate. The production values are high.

Plus Points

– Performances by Jagapathi Babu and Anasuya

– The environmental message

– The secondary meanings

Minus Points

– Lack of engaging narrative

– Dragged scenes

Telugu.yousay.tv Rating: 2.5/5