Kamakshi Bhaskarla Shines in Agadha, But Horror Thriller Falls Short

Agadha, featuring Kamakshi Bhaskarla in a lead role, arrives in theatres today with a 2.75/5 rating, but struggles to deliver a gripping horror experience. Directed by MS Raju, who returns to filmmaking after a notable producing career, the film sets out as a mystic horror thriller but ultimately falls short of its promise.

The story follows Mahima, played by Ulka Gupta, whose family is haunted by a sinister force named Agadha. Kamakshi Bhaskarla portrays Mahadevi, a yogini who steps in to help, and her performance is a highlight. The film’s visual style, crafted by cinematographer Nani Chamidisetty, and the background score by Rakesh Venkatapuram, successfully create an eerie atmosphere. The technical team is credited for natural locations and a colour palette that matches the film’s dark tone.

However, Agadha’s screenplay lacks the tension and urgency expected from the genre. The first half is slow, offering little beyond conflict setup, and the narrative rarely builds excitement. The film is missing the essential thrills, and even after a key character disappears, the emotional stakes remain low. Editing by Junaid Siddiqui could have been tighter to improve pacing.

While Kamakshi Bhaskarla delivers a convincing performance and the supporting cast, including Shravan Reddy and Jovika Vijay Kumar, are adequate, the film’s execution leaves much to be desired. As per reviews, "the subject looks interesting on paper, but the same wasn’t translated on to the screen effectively." Agadha may appeal to fans of the genre seeking atmospheric visuals, but those expecting a compelling horror ride may be disappointed.