SHAKUNTALAM is written and directed by Gunasekhar. It is produced by Neelima Guna under Gunaa Teamworks. The film is based on a popular play Abhignyana Shakuntalam by Kalidasa.
The story is a very linear one and is very a simple one at heart too. There is some drama and in the film it manages unfortunately to keep the drama insulated from the viewer with a very flat screenplay that rarely breaches the bare sensibilities associated with the film. While the first half barely scrapes through it is the second half that there is some action in emotions that come across decent. The focus of the makers has been to make it a visual splendor and keep the heart out of the film and they have not been able to succeed in that as well, as the CG save for very few instances look largely very ordinary.
Samantha is OK mostly and good in a few scenes. The writing is so weak that there is not enough scope for her to perform. Dev Mohan looks good and again doesn’t score on performance. Mohan Babu and Gowthami got little to do and the rest are ok. Allu Arha is a pleasant surprise.
Shekar V Joseph’s cinematography is neat, though the VFX leaves a lot to be desired. There is a boat scene that is the best in the film. Mani Sharma delivers very good in the music department and holds the film together. Editing by Prawin Pudi is casual. Dialogues are very average while direction is a letdown.
SHAUNTALAM just passes muster.
SHAKUNTALAM – SHANTAM !!
B.U.Shreesha
