The much-anticipated film “Chikati Lo,” featuring the talented Shobita Dhulipala, has finally made its debut on Amazon Prime Video, bypassing traditional theaters. Known as a Telugu actress, Shobita has made a name for herself in the industry, especially after marrying Akkineni Chaitanya. With only two Telugu films to her credit in nearly a decade-long career, fans are eager to see if this latest venture will be a hit. The film, directed by Charan Koppishetty, promises a murder mystery that intertwines crime with social issues.
The storyline revolves around Sandhya, played by Shobita, who is a crime news anchor at a television station. Although she lacks enthusiasm for her job, she dreams of starting her own podcast channel. Sandhya is in a romantic relationship with Amar, portrayed by Vishwadev Rachakonda, and the couple is preparing for marriage. However, their plans take a dark turn when Sandhya’s colleague, Bobby, is found murdered. The plot thickens as the narrative explores a series of killings in the Godavari district from 25 years ago, potentially linked to Bobby’s death.
The film fits neatly into the murder mystery thriller genre, but it also aims to highlight pressing social issues. “Chikati Lo” tackles the theme of speaking out against sexual assault, encouraging victims to come forward bravely. This approach sets the film apart from conventional narratives, showcasing not just the crime, but the courage required to confront it.
Despite its promising premise, the film’s execution initially feels flat. The first hour plods along, with the investigation led by Shobita’s character failing to engage. Audiences may find it reminiscent of other films in the genre, lacking any fresh twists. However, the last half hour of the film redeems itself with unexpected developments. Even seasoned thriller enthusiasts may struggle to guess the identity of the serial killer, who remains close to the protagonist throughout.
While the film addresses sensitive topics like childhood sexual abuse and its long-lasting impact on victims, it manages to do so without resorting to vulgarity. The depiction of violent scenes against women is handled with care, avoiding gratuitous content. However, the film is not without flaws. The climax and the revelation of the serial killer lack the necessary thrill, making the film’s pacing feel uneven. The investigation, led by Shobita, often appears illogical, with police characters seeming ineffectual. The film raises questions about the believability of the evidence that Sandhya uncovers.
Shobita’s performance as Sandhya is commendable; she dresses modestly in traditional attire and delivers a solid portrayal of her character. Despite the presence of talented actors like Vishwadev Rachakonda and Isha Chawla, none are able to shine, as the focus remains entirely on Shobita. Technically, the film benefits from a fitting background score by Sricharan Pakala, enhancing the dark atmosphere that the title suggests. Cinematography effectively captures the film’s tone, though the overall execution feels routine.
In summary, “Chikati Lo” offers a mix of intriguing social commentary and a murder mystery, though it struggles with pacing and logic in its narrative. For those who enjoy thrillers, it presents an engaging experience, especially in its final act. Families may find it suitable for a movie night, but viewers should be prepared for a story that takes some time to unfold. If the filmmakers had paid more attention to the weaknesses, “Chikati Lo” could have emerged as a standout thriller in the genre.
