A compelling and emotional Telugu psychological horror, Ghatikachalam stars Nikhil Devadula in a haunting performance. Dive into family secrets, supernatural dread, and a soundscape that lingers long after the credits roll.
Quick Facts
Title: Ghatikachalam
Genre: Psychological horror / Suspense thriller
Release Date: 31 May 2025
Director: Amar Kamepalli
Writer(s): M.C. Raju, Srinivas Malkar
Producer / Story: M.C. Raju
Cast: Nikhil Devadula, Aarvika Gupta, Tanmayi Khushi, Samyu Reddy, Prabhakar Podakandla, Arjun Vihaan, Rangadham
Cinematography: S.S. Manoj
Editing: Srinu Bainaboina
Music & Sound Design: Flavio G. Cuccurullo and Sai Maneendhar Reddy
Run Time & Rating: ~ 2 hours, rated A (Adult)
IMDb Synopsis: Kaushik, a timid medical student, is tormented by a malevolent entity called Ghatikachalam that invades his mind.
Plot Overview
Ghatikachalam dives into the disturbing journey of Kaushik, whose life spirals out of control after a traumatic event in college. Haunted by a sinister voice claiming to be Ghatikachalam, he drifts from subdued obedience to frightening unpredictability. The family, desperate for help, turns to ancient spiritual rituals as Kaushik teeters on the edge of sanity.
Highlights & Strengths
Performance by Nikhil Devadula:
He delivers a deeply emotional portrayal. His character’s fracture between fear and defiance comes alive, making every silent moment intense and layered.
Atmospheric Soundscape:
The eerie sound design by Sai Maneendhar Reddy and the haunting music by Flavio Cuccurullo craft an immersive sound environment that truly unsettles.
Emotional Themes:
Director Amar Kamepalli tackles family pressure and neglected mental health with nuance. Behind the supernatural horror lies a raw look at emotional repression. The real horror may lie within the walls of a typical home.
Commercial Buzz:
The teaser dropped in October 2024 gained traction, and backing from industry figures like Maruthi and SKN added momentum as the theatrical release approached.
Areas That Could Improve
Predictable Turn:
Some viewers noted that narrative twists became familiar after a point. The climax lacks the punch it initially promises.
Pacing Challenges:
The middle section slows down, especially during tension-building scenes that prolong domestic arguments more than necessary.
Technical & Creative Craft
Cinematography:
SS Manoj’s use of shadow and tight framing amplifies Kaushik’s internal conflict and isolation.
Editing:
Bainaboina sustains the eerie rhythm. Yet, a slightly crisper edit in the second act might’ve elevated the scare quotient.
Production Design:
From college corridors to traditional homes, the settings enhance the uneasy vibe throughout.
Trailer & Public Response
The official trailer released May 29, 2025, packs chilling audio cues and cryptic visuals. It convincingly teases a psychological maze.
Audience Ratings:
BookMyShow reports an impressive 8.3/10 from 19 votes. Tags like ‘Great Acting’, ‘Well Made’, and ‘Super Direction’ are frequently mentioned.
Final Verdict
Ghatikachalam isn’t just another horror film. It’s a layered emotional thriller that uses supernatural elements to spotlight the consequences of neglect. The strong central performance, immersive audio-visual design, and thoughtful thematic core make it stand out. Though pacing and predictability hold it back from becoming a modern classic, this film is a solid addition to Telugu psychological horrors.
Rating: 3/5
For cine-lovers seeking standout performances and atmospheric chills, Ghatikachalam is worth the watch.
Perfect For:
- Fans of character-driven horror (like The Babadook or Hereditary)
- Audiences drawn to emotional narratives, not just ghost stories
- Viewers who appreciate strong lead performances and haunting soundscapes
Tags: Ghatikachalam review, Nikhil Devadula performance, Telugu psychological horror, Amar Kamepalli film, 2025 suspense thriller, BookMyShow rating, Telugu horror movie review