The Telugu horror thriller Eesha, which hit theatres on December 25, 2025, attempts to weave social commentary into its supernatural narrative but ultimately gets bogged down by conventional genre tropes. Directed by Srinivas Manne, the film features Hebah Patel and Adith Arun in lead roles and currently holds a 3.0 rating from both critics and users on major review platforms.
A Unique Premise That Loses Its Way
The story of Eesha centres on a rational-minded group of four friends who decide to investigate and expose fraudulent godmen, aiming to challenge belief systems that prey on fear. Their intellectual mission, however, takes a terrifying turn when they find themselves trapped in a creepy, confined space where inexplicable events begin to occur. The line between superstition and a genuine supernatural threat quickly blurs, putting the characters' convictions to the ultimate test.
Director Srinivas Manne sets up this intriguing premise with clarity, grounding the initial portions in the group's dynamics and motivations. The concept of using horror as a lens to scrutinize blind faith is undoubtedly compelling. However, the film struggles to maintain this momentum. The narrative, especially in the first half, moves at a sluggish pace, relying heavily on overused horror mechanics like jump scares and sudden loud noises. This over-reliance makes the scares predictable and diminishes their impact over time.
Performances and Technical Execution
Where Eesha finds some solid footing is in the performances of its lead actors. Hebah Patel, portraying Nayana, and Adith Arun as Kalyan, deliver earnest and committed performances. Their emotional reactions feel genuine, providing an emotional anchor that helps the audience stay engaged even during the film's slower sections. Supporting actors Siri Hanumanth and Akhil Raj Uddemari fulfil their roles adequately, though their characters lack the depth needed to make a lasting impression.
On the technical front, the film benefits from competent sound design and atmospheric visuals that successfully create a sense of dread in parts. The movie is most effective when it builds mood and tension rather than resorting to cheap shocks. The core supernatural mystery does manage to grip the viewer's attention intermittently.
Final Verdict: A Missed Opportunity
Despite its novel core idea, Eesha's execution fails to fully realize its potential. The prolonged buildup dilutes the impact of a key climatic twist, which could have been far more powerful with tighter editing and a sharper screenplay. The film ends up feeling like a familiar horror experience rather than the unique social-horror blend it aspires to be.
In conclusion, Eesha is a passable watch for fans of traditional horror thrillers who do not mind a well-trodden path of storytelling. It offers occasional chills and a thought-provoking premise but is ultimately weighed down by predictable patterns and uneven pacing. A more polished script could have elevated it into a truly memorable cinematic experience.
