The much-anticipated film “Euphoria,” directed by the acclaimed Gunasekhar, has recently hit the screens, raising the question: Did he manage to impress his audience? With a talented cast including Bhumika, Sara Arjun, Vighnesh Gavereddy, Gautam Menon, Rohit, Adarsh Balakrishna, Nazar, Ravi Prakash, and Naveen Reddy, the film promises a gripping narrative that touches on contemporary issues faced by the youth.
Gunasekhar, a veteran in the Telugu film industry with a career spanning over three decades, has been known for his blockbuster hits such as “Okkadu,” “Rudhramadevi,” and “Ramayanam.” However, following a string of lackluster performances, including the flop “Shakuntalam,” he has returned with “Euphoria,” which tackles the pressing issue of drug abuse among today’s youth. The plot centers on Chaitra (played by Sara Arjun), a top student with aspirations of becoming an IAS officer, who finds her life spiraling out of control after a fateful night at a pub.
The narrative unfolds as Chaitra, after being lured into a dangerous situation by five young men under the influence of drugs, becomes a victim of a brutal assault. The incident sends shockwaves throughout the state, prompting Commissioner Jayadev (Gautam Menon) to take on the case. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that the perpetrators come from influential families, including those of politicians and businessmen, adding layers of complexity to the investigation.
In a shocking twist, a character named Vindhya Vemulapalli (Bhumika) claims involvement in the crime, leading to questions about her relationship with the case and her motives for seeking justice through the courts. Gunasekhar’s direction draws parallels to real-life events, particularly a gang rape incident that occurred in Hyderabad, which ignited national outrage, serving as a stark reminder of society’s ongoing struggle with such heinous crimes.
The film’s portrayal of the consequences of drug abuse and the moral decay among the youth is both poignant and alarming. Gunasekhar successfully captures the essence of how these issues affect families, showcasing the emotional turmoil experienced by victims and their loved ones. The depiction of Chaitra’s plight and the societal implications of her story resonate deeply, eliciting empathy from the audience.
However, while the film starts strong with a gripping storyline, certain pacing issues arise in the second half. The bond between mother and son is explored, but the emotional depth needed to connect with viewers is lacking. Despite these shortcomings, Sara Arjun shines in her role as Chaitra, delivering a compelling performance that highlights the struggles of a sexual assault survivor. Bhumika, as the mother, is equally impressive, portraying a woman torn between her love for her son and the harsh realities of justice.
The film’s cinematography by Praveen K. Pothin and the music by Kala Bhairava contribute to the overall atmosphere, making “Euphoria” a film that resonates with the current generation. Although it has its flaws, Gunasekhar’s “Euphoria” emerges as a crucial cinematic piece that addresses pressing social issues, making it a must-watch for today’s youth.
