Introduction
Gatham is a 2020 Indian Telugu-language psychological thriller directed by Kiran Reddy and produced by Bhargava Poludasu, Harsha Vardhan Pratap, and Srujan Yarabolu. The film was shot in the United States and features Bhargava Poludasu, Rakesh Galebhe, and Poojitha Kuraparthi in pivotal roles. Unlike traditional mainstream Telugu films, Gatham takes a bold approach by exploring dark and twisted psychological elements. The film was released directly on Amazon Prime Video due to the COVID-19 pandemic, where it gained significant attention for its gripping narrative and eerie storytelling.
Honest Review
Gatham stands out for its suspenseful storyline and atmospheric tension. The film follows a man suffering from amnesia who, along with his girlfriend, encounters a stranger offering them shelter after their car breaks down in a remote area. What follows is a series of shocking revelations and mind-bending twists that keep the audience on edge. The screenplay is tightly woven, and the film’s non-linear narration adds layers to the mystery. The cinematography by Manoj Reddy enhances the eerie and unsettling vibe of the film, making the cold and desolate American landscapes an integral part of the story. One of the film’s strongest aspects is its background score, which amplifies the suspense and psychological depth. While the film excels in creating tension, the performances, particularly from the lead actors, could have been more nuanced. Some of the dialogues feel a bit forced, and the pacing, especially in the middle portions, slows down. However, Gatham makes up for these minor flaws with its well-executed twists and an engaging climax. It successfully delivers a psychological thriller experience rarely seen in Telugu cinema.
Cast
The cast of Gatham includes a mix of fresh and relatively lesser-known actors, but they manage to deliver compelling performances.
- Bhargava Poludasu as The Stranger, the mysterious man who offers help but harbors dark secrets.
- Rakesh Galebhe as Rishi, the protagonist suffering from amnesia, who embarks on a journey filled with shocking discoveries.
- Poojitha Kuraparthi as Adithi, Rishi’s girlfriend, who supports him through his ordeal.
- Lakshmi Bharadwaj in a key supporting role.
IMDb Rating
Gatham received a favorable response from viewers and critics alike, reflected in its IMDb rating of 6.6/10. The film’s unexpected twists, strong atmosphere, and psychological horror elements were widely praised. The slightly lower rating can be attributed to its relatively unknown cast and the fact that some audiences found the pacing inconsistent. However, for a debut film made with a limited budget, Gatham performed exceptionally well in terms of audience engagement and critical appreciation.
Budget
One of the most impressive aspects of Gatham is that it was made on a shoestring budget of around ₹1-2 crore, a remarkably low figure for a psychological thriller shot in the United States. Despite its limited resources, the film boasts high production quality, with commendable cinematography and editing that elevate the overall experience. The team effectively utilized their budget by focusing on minimal locations, tight storytelling, and efficient production management.
Box Office Success
Since Gatham was released directly on Amazon Prime Video, it did not have a traditional box office release. However, the film gained significant viewership on the streaming platform and was appreciated for its bold approach to storytelling. Amazon Prime Video acquired the streaming rights for an estimated ₹4-5 crore, ensuring a profitable return for the filmmakers. The film’s success on OTT platforms helped it reach a wider audience beyond Telugu-speaking viewers, as psychological thrillers have a universal appeal.
Final Verdict
Gatham is a gripping and atmospheric psychological thriller that delivers an engaging experience despite its limited budget and lesser-known cast. The film stands out for its well-crafted suspense, unexpected twists, and eerie cinematography. While the performances could have been more refined, the film’s strong narrative and psychological depth make it a worthwhile watch for thriller enthusiasts. It proves that good storytelling and technical brilliance can overcome budget constraints. If you enjoy dark, suspenseful thrillers, Gatham is definitely worth watching.