Good
*Yagna* (2023) is a daring Telugu psychological thriller that delves into the dangerous intersection of blind faith and human vulnerability. Directed by debutant Mahi V Raghav, the film follows a rationalist journalist (played by Naveen Chandra) who investigates a mysterious fire at a temple, uncovering layers of deception and mass hysteria.
**Strengths:** The film's greatest achievement is its unflinching critique of religious exploitation without resorting to cheap sensationalism. Naveen Chandra delivers a career-best performance, perfectly embodying the protagonist's journey from skepticism to terror. The atmospheric cinematography creates a palpable sense of dread, particularly in the haunting temple sequences. The first act masterfully builds tension, with clever use of sound design that makes even mundane scenes feel ominous.
**Weaknesses:** *Yagna* stumbles in its uneven pacing - the gripping investigative portions are frequently interrupted by unnecessary romantic subplots. The climax, while conceptually strong, feels rushed and could have benefited from more nuanced character motivations. Some supporting actors struggle with the heavy dramatic material, occasionally breaking the film's carefully constructed tension.
**Technical Brilliance:** Shekar Chandra's minimalist score amplifies the psychological horror elements effectively. The production design deserves special mention for its authentic recreation of rural religious spaces that feel both sacred and sinister.
**Verdict:** Despite its flaws, *Yagna* is an important film that pushes boundaries in mainstream Telugu cinema. It's a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll, even if it doesn't fully deliver on its ambitious premise.
**Strengths:** The film's greatest achievement is its unflinching critique of religious exploitation without resorting to cheap sensationalism. Naveen Chandra delivers a career-best performance, perfectly embodying the protagonist's journey from skepticism to terror. The atmospheric cinematography creates a palpable sense of dread, particularly in the haunting temple sequences. The first act masterfully builds tension, with clever use of sound design that makes even mundane scenes feel ominous.
**Weaknesses:** *Yagna* stumbles in its uneven pacing - the gripping investigative portions are frequently interrupted by unnecessary romantic subplots. The climax, while conceptually strong, feels rushed and could have benefited from more nuanced character motivations. Some supporting actors struggle with the heavy dramatic material, occasionally breaking the film's carefully constructed tension.
**Technical Brilliance:** Shekar Chandra's minimalist score amplifies the psychological horror elements effectively. The production design deserves special mention for its authentic recreation of rural religious spaces that feel both sacred and sinister.
**Verdict:** Despite its flaws, *Yagna* is an important film that pushes boundaries in mainstream Telugu cinema. It's a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll, even if it doesn't fully deliver on its ambitious premise.
- Paras-734
- 2 ago 2025