Samantha Ruth Prabhu steps into the world of production with ‘Subham,’ a Telugu film that defies easy categorization, delivering a refreshing and consistently funny cinematic experience. Directed by Praveen Kandregula, known for ‘Cinema Bandi,’ and written by Vasanth Maringanti, ‘Subham’ blends horror and comedy with a sharp, underlying commentary on gender dynamics, all wrapped in a nostalgic early 2000s small-town charm.
The story unfolds in the quaint coastal town of Bheemili, where Srinu (Harshith Reddy), a genial cable TV operator, marries Srivalli (Shriya Kontham), a bright and independent MBA graduate. Their seemingly normal life takes a bizarre turn when Srivalli, along with other women in the village, starts exhibiting strange behavior every night at 9 PM, coinciding with their obsession with a particular television soap opera. What follows is a hilarious and increasingly spooky journey as Srinu and his friends try to unravel the mystery behind their wives’ peculiar transformations.
What truly sets ‘Subham’ apart is its clever weaving of genres. It’s not just a horror-comedy; it subtly satirizes the societal obsession with television serials and outdated notions of masculinity. The film cleverly uses the fictional soap opera within the movie, ‘Janma Janmala Bandham,’ as a narrative device to reflect and comment on the gender dynamics between three couples. The humor arises not just from the spooky situations but also from the cluelessness of the male characters as they grapple with the increasingly assertive behavior of their possessed wives.
Director Praveen Kandregula masterfully anchors the film in the quirks of small-town life, from familiar chatter to the reign of cable television, creating a relatable and nostalgic backdrop. Vivek Sagar’s music seamlessly transitions between romance and horror, while Mridul Sen’s cinematography effectively captures the shifting tones of the narrative.
The performances are a major highlight. Harshith Reddy brings a genuine warmth to his portrayal of Srinu, while Shriya Kontham holds her own as the quietly strong-willed Srivalli. The supporting cast, including Gavireddy Srinivas and Charan Peri, add to the comedic chaos with their impeccable timing. Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s cameo is brief but impactful, playing against her usual on-screen persona with a deadpan delivery that amplifies the humor.
While the first half of the film establishes the premise and humor effectively, some viewers might find the pacing slightly uneven in the latter part. However, the film quickly regains momentum, leading to a satisfying and thematically consistent conclusion. The film also subtly touches upon the pressures and expectations placed on women in traditional settings, making its comedic approach all the more insightful.
‘Subham’ is a refreshing and entertaining watch that manages to deliver laughs and mild scares in equal measure. It’s a testament to smart writing and charming performances, proving that a film can be both hilarious and thought-provoking. Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s debut as a producer is a resounding success, showcasing her keen eye for unique and engaging stories. If you’re looking for a genre-bending film that offers a fun and relatable ride with a touch of social commentary, ‘Subham’ is definitely worth your time.