Subha Yogam | Dt 30-10-15

Malayalam cinema is known for its strong storytelling, and one such film that created waves on OTT was Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey, starring Basil Joseph and Darshana Rajendran. The Telugu remake, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi, featuring Tharun Bhascker and Eesha Rebba, released today. Here’s our take on it.

Plot
Shanti (Eesha Rebba), an educated girl, is forced into marriage with a local fish seller, Omkar Naidu (Tharun Bhascker). Post-marriage, she faces physical abuse, which shakes her deeply. Determined to fight back, Shanti gives Omkar a taste of his own medicine. However, Omkar devises a sinister plan to assert control over his wife. The story revolves around how Shanti responds to his schemes and ultimately takes a stand.

Performances
The film’s biggest strength lies in its performances. Tharun Bhascker, usually seen in light-hearted roles, surprises with a bold negative portrayal of Omkar Naidu. Despite the dark character, he adds comic relief and keeps the audience engaged. Eesha Rebba gets a substantial role after a while and fits perfectly as the resilient housewife. Their chemistry works well, and the supporting cast, including Brahmaji, adds humor and energy to the film.

Technical Aspects
Jaya Krish’s music is subtle, complementing the narrative without being intrusive. The film impresses visually, with well-crafted production design capturing the small-town vibe and Godavari backdrop beautifully. Dialogues are simple and effective. However, editing falters in the second half, particularly around the pre-climax, making the finale feel rushed. Debut director A. R. Sajeev does a decent job adapting the original, though certain emotional beats are missed.

Positives

Strong performances

Impressive production values

Light-hearted comedy

Negatives

Rushed ending

Lack of emotional depth

Weak character arcs

Analysis
While Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi stays faithful to the Malayalam original in terms of setting, cast, and basic theme, it struggles to create an emotional connection. The first half sets up characters and conflict effectively, and the dark comedy in serious situations works well. But the latter half misses the mark. Shanti’s trauma and emotional struggle are underplayed, and the film leans too heavily on humor, even during moments that should feel serious. The climax, including a mundane court sequence featuring Brahmanandam, feels anticlimactic and forced.

The fun-oriented treatment works initially, but the lack of strong human drama leaves the remake feeling incomplete. Had the emotional depth been handled better, the film could have been a more impactful family drama.

Final Verdict: A half-baked family drama that entertains in parts but fails to hit the emotional core.