Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi Review : A Faithful Remake That Plays It Safe

A faithful Telugu remake that delivers decent performances but struggles to recreate the impact of the original.

Storyline

Kondaveeti Prashanti (Eesha Rebba) is raised in a conservative household with little say in her own life decisions. She is married off to Ambati Omkar Naidu (Tharun Bhascker), a fishery businessman from Dhawaleshwaram in East Godavari. While Prashanti initially adapts to her new life, she slowly uncovers her husband’s true personality. How she responds to this reality forms the core of the narrative.

Positives

Tharun Bhascker surprises as a lead actor and fits the role well, with his Godavari accent adding authenticity.

Eesha Rebba delivers a restrained and mature performance, especially shining in the interval, post-interval portions, and climax.

A few comedy moments during fight sequences work effectively.

Cinematography lends a pleasant visual texture to the film.

Supporting cast suits their roles, with Brahmaji managing a few laughs despite limited screen time.

Negatives

The film sticks too closely to the Malayalam original, offering minimal novelty for viewers who have already seen it.

Second half feels slow and stretched, affecting overall engagement.

Supporting characters lack depth, especially during emotional moments.

Brahmaji’s character is underutilised, missing opportunities for stronger humour.

Technicalities

Director A.R. Sajeev, in his debut, plays it safe by staying faithful to the source material, but the remake could have benefited from more localised changes. Themes like patriarchy and domestic abuse are touched upon but not explored deeply. Deepak Yaragera’s cinematography works well, Jay Krish’s music complements the mood, and production values are decent. Editing needed tighter control, particularly in the latter half.

Rating 2.75 / 5

Final Verdict

Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi works in parts as a black comedy and is supported by decent performances from its leads. However, the lack of freshness and a sluggish second half limit its overall impact. It may appeal to viewers unfamiliar with the original, but others might find it underwhelming.

Follow Telugu Funda on trending Social Media Platforms for more Cinema, OTT, Political, And Sports updates.