Shaakuntalam Review: Samantha Ruth Prabhu & Dev Mohan deliver brilliant performances in this mystical chapter of Indian Mythology

Film: Shaakuntalam

Director: Gunasekhar

Star Cast: Samantha Ruth Prabhu, Dev Mohan, Sachin Khedekar, Mohan Babu, Madhoo, Kabir Bedi, Jisshu Sengupta, and Allu Arha

Platform: Theatres

Bollywood Bubble ratings: 3.5/5 stars

3-and-half-stars

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Shaakuntalam Movie Review:

Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Dev Mohan starrer Shaakuntalam is an experience to witness on the big screen. The film is based on Kalidasa’s popular play Abhignyana Shakuntala, with its premises built around the iconic love story of King Dushyant of the Puru Dynasty and his wife Shakuntala. When you see the film, there was not a moment you aren’t in awe of the setting, and the feel this magical story had to offer.

The story starts with Menaka’s (played by Madhoo) daughter Shakuntala (played by Samantha) being abandoned in a jungle many years ago. And while we know the classic tale already, the way it was presented in the film is too beautiful. In fact, you will feel like you are watching it all live if you see this film in 3D.

Having said that, watch Shaakuntalam’s trailer here:

What’s great about Shaakuntalam:

Well, the filmmaker has been true to the era, in terms of language, the majority of the costumes, and even the story. In fact, what we liked is that not much creative liberty has been taken to engage the audience. Every aspect of the story is well established only to all unfold beautifully in the end.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Dev Mohan’s performances:

Considering this is a period drama, a lot was riding on the shoulders of the actors in Shaakuntalam. And they have lived up to it. While Samantha’s portrayal of Shakuntala is very beautiful, she brings a certain grace to the character that only adds to its beauty. At the same time, she carries equal intensity and resilience. Dev Mohan on the other hand was not just very good looking, but also effortlessly charming as King Dushyant. But if there is to be a star performer it would be Allu Arha (Allu Arjun’s daughter) who plays Bharata in the film. The little kid makes an impressive impression in the role she plays and you won’t be able to help but adore her for it.

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A post shared by Dev Mohan (@devmohanofficial)

The costumes in Shaakuntalam

Even though a few costumes were modern from their time, majorly the makers maintained the flavour and kept the costumes as authentic as they can. The attires are so beautifully chosen and carried that it only adds to the awe of the film.

The VFX

Another high point in the film is its VFX, not for a moment will you feel that you are watching something from many centuries ago. In fact, you will want to be a part of that mystical world, that’s what the film’s VFX has done.

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A post shared by Samantha (@samantharuthprabhuoffl)

Drawbacks of Shaakuntalam…

While everything about the story is great, there are issues in terms of the pace. Yes, the second half of the film is stronger, but the first half is quite slow and sketchy. There are a lot of places where the link is lost, or you might be left questing for a back story. Also, there are too many songs and long ones in the film which almost makes it feel like you are watching a musical. But the second half makes up for it, all you need is some patience though.

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A post shared by Samantha (@samantharuthprabhuoffl)

Conclusion:

Overall, we recommend you watch Shaakuntalam for the amazing performances from Samantha and Dev. Also, for the beautiful setting you get to witness. But watching it in 3D will make you walk out with a better impact. So get a taste of this beautiful chapter of Indian history in theatres near you.

Also Read: Mrs Undercover REVIEW: Radhika Apte delivers a banging performance but the climax fails to impress

Nawaz Kochra

Nawaz Kochra has been an experienced journalist in the entertainment arena for the last 9 years. Worked with the biggest brands in the media fraternity, he now heads the editorial desk at Bollywood Bubble. In addition to that, he even hosts a podcast called, Let’s Talk with Bollywood Bubble. Someone who is calm, yet a firecracker, and holds a balanced opinion about things, Nawaz is strong-headed and determined. He loves films as well as web shows and TV (yes, he is from that generation!), and that’s why writing about them is more of a passion for him than just a job.