The film industry is buzzing with excitement following the release of the movie Shubham, which hit theaters on May 9, 2025. Produced by the talented actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu, this horror-comedy has generated a positive response from audiences and critics alike. The film features an ensemble cast, including Harshith Reddy, Gavireddy Srinivas, Charan Peri, and Shriya Kontham, and is directed by Praveen Kandregula, known for his previous work on Cinema Bandi.
In Shubham, the story unfolds in the quiet town of Bheemili during the early 2000s. It follows Srinivas (played by Harshith Reddy), a simple cable TV operator who marries Srivalli (Shriya Kontham), a smart MBA graduate. However, life takes a bizarre turn when Srivalli begins to behave strangely every night at 9 PM, mirroring the odd behaviors of other women in the village. This leads Srinivas on a quest to uncover the mystery behind these strange occurrences, which are tied to a popular TV serial.
Gavireddy Srinivas shines in the film, portraying the role of an 'Alpha Male' who is both comedic and charming. Critics have praised his performance, noting that he effectively embodies the quintessential character found in every friend group. "His comedic timing truly stands out, making the character relatable and enjoyable for the audience," remarked a reviewer from 123telugu.com. Srinivas himself expressed gratitude for the positive reception of his role, stating, "I am very happy that Shubham has achieved such success. The audience has really connected with my character, and I look forward to sharing this joy with everyone."
Samantha's transition from actress to producer has been met with enthusiasm. Despite facing personal challenges, including a divorce and a battle with an autoimmune disease, she continues to thrive in the industry. In a candid interview with Galatta Plus, she reflected on her journey, stating that her understanding of success has shifted significantly over the years. "Success is now freedom for me—the freedom to take a break without feeling pressured to release a film," she shared. This new perspective comes after a period of intense scrutiny and competition in her career.
The film's rating on 123telugu.com stands at 3 out of 5, with reviewers noting that while the concept is engaging, the execution could be improved. The blend of horror and comedy is a highlight, particularly appealing to family audiences. The performances, especially those of Harshith and Shriya, have been well-received, contributing to the film's charm. However, some critics pointed out that the pacing was uneven, with the first half losing momentum at times.
Despite its flaws, Shubham has struck a chord with viewers, especially women who relate to the themes presented in the film. The portrayal of the bond between husbands and wives, along with the humorous take on the influence of TV serials, resonates well with the audience. The film's unique premise, which revolves around the impact of a TV show on the lives of the characters, adds an interesting twist to the narrative.
However, the release comes at a challenging time for the film industry, as ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan have led to a decrease in theater attendance across several regions. This has raised concerns about the film's box office performance, with some suggesting that it may not achieve blockbuster status despite its promising start. Nevertheless, industry insiders believe that the film's low budget may help it break even through satellite and digital streaming rights.
As Samantha continues to navigate her career, she remains committed to producing more films that resonate with audiences. Her journey from a celebrated actress to a producer reflects her resilience and dedication to her craft. In her own words, "I am grateful for the opportunity to create meaningful content, and I hope to continue to delight audiences with my future projects."
Overall, Shubham is a light-hearted film that combines humor and mild horror, making it a suitable choice for family viewing. While it may not be perfect, it offers an enjoyable experience for those looking to unwind and have a few laughs. The film's engaging story and relatable characters ensure that it leaves a lasting impression on its audience.
