Rating : 2.75/5
“Hidimbha,” an action thriller directed by Aneel Kanneganti and starring Ashwin Babu and Nandita Sweta, has generated significant excitement with its intriguing trailer. The film follows the case of several missing women in Hyderabad, posing a challenging investigation for special officer Aadya (Nandita Sweta) and ACP Abhay (Ashwin Babu). As they delve into the mysterious kidnappings, the story unfolds, revealing the motive behind the criminal’s targeting of women.
The film’s strengths lie in its captivating visuals and a well-executed flashback, accompanied by a commendable twist in the pre-climax. Ashwin Babu’s impressive performance in an action avatar and Nandita Sweta’s portrayal of a substantial character contribute to the movie’s appeal. Additionally, Makarand Deshpande’s portrayal of the antagonist adds depth to the plot.
However, the film falters in the first half, struggling to establish engaging character and situation dynamics. The investigative angle feels clichéd, and the lack of clarity regarding the antagonist’s character leaves some aspects unexplained.
“Hidimbha” also faces criticism for its excessive violence and gore, making it unsuitable for family audiences. Despite technical finesse, the film’s slow-paced first half hinders its full potential, and logical inconsistencies affect its impact.
On the whole, “Hidimbha” offers moments of thrill, particularly in the second hour, but its flaws prevent it from being a standout thriller. The film’s backdrop shows promise, but the overall execution leaves room for improvement, resulting in an average weekend watch.
