Saindhav Movie Review A Roller Coaster of Emotions with a Thriller Shortfall

Saindhav, the latest offering directed by Sailesh Kolanu and featuring the charismatic Venkatesh Daggubati, is a film that attempts to blend emotional family drama with the intensity of a thriller. While the earnest portrayal of familial ties shines through, the thriller aspect leaves a few gaps to be desired.

Plot Overview

The narrative unfolds around Saindhav Koneru, played by Venkatesh Daggubati, whose mysterious aura as "SaiKo" sends shivers through the characters and the audience alike. The film meticulously builds its world, trusting the audience to embrace the myth surrounding SaiKo without immediate explanations. As SaiKo navigates an uphill task against time, the audience is taken on a journey through his normal life as a crane operator and his relationship with his daughter, Gayathri.

Character Dynamics

One commendable aspect of the film is its attention to character dynamics. Saindhav's acknowledgment of his age, addressed in a remark about being a father to a young child, adds a layer of realism. The film delves into the life of Manognya, played by Shraddha Srinath, offering glimpses into her past, struggles, and a subtle love story intertwined with Saindhav's life. 

Bright Spots

Thriller Element

However, where Saindhav falls short is in its execution as a thriller. While the film builds anticipation around SaiKo's character, the revelation lacks the punch that a gritty thriller demands. The urgency in the narrative doesn't always translate into a gripping storyline, leaving the thriller aspect somewhat underwhelming.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, Saindhav is a mixed bag of emotions with a thriller shortfall. The emotional family drama is finely portrayed, and the character dynamics add depth to the narrative. Yet, the film misses the mark in delivering the edge-of-the-seat thrills expected from a thriller. Venkatesh Daggubati's portrayal of SaiKo is decent, but the film's true standout is the supporting cast, especially Shraddha Srinath.

For those seeking a blend of family drama and thriller elements, Saindhav offers an engaging experience, though not without its flaws.