Kishkindhapuri [2025] Movie Review Haunting Atmosphere, Fresh Thrills, and Missed Opportunities.

Kishkindhapuri, directed by Koushik Pegallapati and starring Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas and Anupama Parameswaran, aims to deliver a spine-chilling blend of horror and thriller with a fresh concept set in a haunted town. Does it live up to its promise, or does it fall into genre clichés? Here’s a detailed look.

Plot Overview

The story revolves around Raghav (Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas) and Mythili (Anupama Parameswaran), guides for a ghost-walking tour company in the titular town of Kishkindhapuri. Their routine job of spooking tourists becomes truly terrifying when fate leads the group to an abandoned radio station called Suvarna Maya. Once inside, a series of supernatural events begin, pushing the group into a chilling fight for survival. As mysterious deaths mount, Raghav and Mythili must unravel the dark secrets behind the radio station and confront forces that blur the line between myth and reality.

Performances

Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas delivers a sincere and improved performance, transitioning convincingly between courage and vulnerability as Raghav. Anupama Parameswaran stands out, especially in emotionally intense scenes, and brings depth to the film’s more haunting sequences. Supporting actors like Tanikella Bharani, Srikanth Iyenger, and Hyper Aadi add color, but some comedic attempts fall flat given the dark tone.

Technical Aspects and Direction

Director Koushik Pegallapati crafts a genuinely engaging first half filled with suspenseful atmosphere, smart production design, and a sense of unpredictability. The film uses its haunted radio station setting to maximum effect, with effective sound design and visually creative sequences (such as the “talking radio” and “killer insect” scenes). The VFX work, while ambitious, is hit-or-miss, sometimes elevating and other times detracting from the tension.

The film’s second half, however, can’t keep up the momentum. The mystery becomes predictable, conflict feels weak, and the horror loses its edge. Emotional highs and a gripping climax are missing, resulting in a wrap-up that doesn’t fully capitalize on the promising start.

What Works

• Engaging, atmospheric first half

• Strong visual ideas and innovative premise

• Lead performances, especially Anupama Parameswaran

• Solid production values and chilling background score

Where It Falls Short

• Predictable second half and rushed storyline

• Lack of emotional depth and strong central conflict

• Scares mostly limited to jump-scares; true horror is diluted

• Some comedic detours break the tension

My Rating

Kishkindhapuri — Site Rating: 2.5/5

Verdict

Kishkindhapuri stands out for its ambition, atmospheric setting, and a few genuinely spooky moments. The cast puts in solid performances, and the premise promises thrills. However, a lackluster second half, predictable story beats, and missed emotional opportunities prevent the film from being a must-watch. For fans of horror-thrillers, there’s enough here to warrant a viewing, but the film ultimately leaves you wishing for a bolder, more impactful ride