Cast: Ashwin Babu, Digangana Suryavanshi, Hyper Aadi, Arbaaz Khan, Murali Sharma, Tanikella Bharani, Brahmaji
Director: Abdul Apsar Hussain
Music: Vikas Badisa
Editor: Chota K. Prasad
Producer: Maheshwara Reddy
Release Date: August 01, 2024
The latest film starring Ashwin Babu, who is the brother of well-known anchor and director Ohmkar, is titled ‘Shivam Bhaje.’ Digangana Suryavanshi plays the lead female role. Directed by Abdul Apsar Hussain, the movie also features notable actors such as Hyper Aadi, Arbaaz Khan, Murali Sharma, Tanikella Bharani, and Brahmaji in significant roles. The promotional materials, trailer, and teaser have significantly raised expectations for this film, which was released on August 1. Let’s explore how the film fared and whether it succeeded in captivating the audience.
Plot
Chandu (Ashwin Babu) works as a loan recovery agent. During his job, he falls in love with Shailaja (Digangana Suryavanshi), who works in a chemical lab. Due to an incident, Chandu loses his sight. Following a dramatic event blessed by Lord Shiva, an operation restores his vision. However, after regaining his sight, Chandu begins to see various visuals. Whose eyes did Chandu receive? What are these visuals he sees? Why does a mere recovery agent end up fighting with enemy nations? What deed did Chandu perform with the grace of Lord Shiva? What role does Dogra (a dog) play in the story? To find out, one must watch the movie.
Performances
Ashwin Babu delivers a remarkable performance in the role of Chandu, showcasing great versatility across two dimensions. Digangana Suryavanshi captivates the audience as Shailaja. The chemistry between Ashwin and Digangana is effectively established. Bollywood actor Arbaaz Khan impresses in his role as a police officer, and comedian Hyper Aadi elicits laughter with his impeccable timing. Seasoned actors Brahmanandam and Murali Sharma mesmerize with their performances, while other actors adequately fulfill their roles.
Direction
Director Abdul Apsar Hussain commendable intertwines mystery and devotional elements. Some suspense scenes in this crime drama are quite engaging. The storyline woven around international espionage also pleases, though the screenplay falters at times. The narrative could have been presented more effectively on screen. The subplot involving murders seems rather weak. Chandu’s character could have been made more powerful. Some scenes lack logical coherence. The slow pace of the story and a lack of engaging elements in the first half are drawbacks. Unrelated scenes test the audience’s patience.
Technically
On the technical front, Dasarathi Shivendra’s cinematography is impressive. He beautifully presents key scenes, especially in the second half. Vikas Badisa’s music is decent. Chota K. Prasad’s editing is also commendable. The production values are high.
Plus Points
– Ashwin Babu’s acting
– Suspense scenes
– Climax
Minus Points
– Slow narration
– Lack of engaging elements
– Irrelevant scenes
