Cheekatilo Movie Review: A Well-Staged Telugu Thriller That Holds Attention
Cheekatilo, a Telugu crime thriller released on January 23, 2026, has garnered attention for its atmospheric storytelling and compelling central performance. Directed by Sharan Koppisetty, the film runs for 2 hours and 5 minutes and features Sobhita Dhulipala in the lead role, supported by a cast including Aamani, Pradeep Kondiparthi, and Jhansi. With a critic's rating of 3.0 and a matching user rating, it falls into the crime, drama, and thriller genres, offering a tense viewing experience that prioritizes mood over shocks.
Plot Overview: A Journalist's Descent into Darkness
The narrative centers on Sandhya, portrayed by Sobhita Dhulipala, a journalist whose life unravels after the mysterious death of a colleague. What begins as an isolated incident quickly spirals into a deeper investigation, pulling Sandhya into a web of disturbing crimes. As she delves further, her reporting evolves from routine journalism to immersive true-crime storytelling, blurring the lines between observer and active participant. Each discovery draws her closer to a shadowy serial killer, while the emotional and psychological toll of the investigation mounts, forcing her to navigate moral dilemmas and personal risks.
Director's Vision and Atmospheric Tension
Director Sharan Koppisetty crafts Cheekatilo as a thriller that relies on tension, restraint, and meticulous staging rather than constant action or jump scares. The film excels in its mid-portions, where the investigation deepens and a sense of dread quietly intensifies. Instead of rushing through plot points, the narrative allows unease to seep in gradually, keeping viewers invested in Sandhya's journey. The strength of the film lies in its mood-building; darkness is portrayed not just visually but psychologically, with effective use of silence, pauses, and carefully composed frames to create a lingering fear.
Several sequences are well-staged, immersing audiences in Sandhya's isolation and growing obsession. The storytelling leans more on atmosphere than complex plotting, which generally sustains tension throughout. However, some narrative turns may feel familiar to seasoned thriller fans, and while the setup is compelling, the resolution does not fully match the promise of the build-up. The conclusion comes across as less sharp, leaving certain threads underdeveloped. Despite this, the journey remains engaging enough that flaws do not overshadow the film's strengths.
Performances That Ground the Film
Sobhita Dhulipala anchors the film with a composed and convincing performance. She brings restraint to the role of Sandhya, portraying her as observant, emotionally guarded, and quietly determined. Her performance lends credibility to the investigative arc and grounds the film even when the narrative wavers. The supporting cast, including Aamani, Pradeep Kondiparthi, and Jhansi, fits seamlessly into the dark, tense world of the film, contributing effectively without diverting attention from the central performance.
Final Verdict: A Mood-Driven Thriller Worth Watching
Cheekatilo may not be a flawless thriller, but it succeeds in holding attention through strong atmosphere, effective staging, and a compelling central performance. While a sharper conclusion could have elevated it further, the film remains a tense, mood-driven watch that operates more on feeling than formula. It is a solid entry in the Telugu thriller genre, recommended for viewers who appreciate slow-burn narratives and psychological depth over fast-paced action.
In summary, Cheekatilo offers a gripping experience with Sobhita Dhulipala's standout performance and Sharan Koppisetty's directorial finesse, making it a noteworthy release for crime drama enthusiasts.
