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iSmart Shankar is a Telugu-language action thriller that hit the screens on July 18, 2019. Directed by Puri Jagannadh, the movie blends intense action, quirky comedy, and a gripping storyline with a touch of science fiction. Starring Ram Pothineni, Nabha Natesh, and Nidhhi Agerwal, the film was an instant crowd-puller, thanks to its mass-appeal dialogues and energetic performances. As one of the most talked-about movies of the year, “iSmart Shankar” promises an exciting ride full of twists and entertainment.
This article reviews the film in detail, covering its plot, highlights, box office performance, and more.
Plot Summary
The story of “iSmart Shankar” revolves around a street-smart thug named Shankar, played by Ram Pothineni. Known for his bold attitude and fearless demeanor, Shankar finds himself caught in a whirlwind of events after a significant mission goes awry. The movie takes an interesting turn when Shankar undergoes a memory-transplant procedure, connecting him to the memories of a dead cop. As he navigates through the chaos of his own life and the implanted memories, Shankar embarks on a quest to uncover the truth while battling enemies on all sides.
With elements of revenge, love, and humor intertwined, the movie keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
What’s Good?
High-Energy Performances
Ram Pothineni’s portrayal of Shankar is undoubtedly the highlight of the film. His transformation into a rugged, unapologetic character with a Hyderabadi dialect is commendable. His high-octane energy and magnetic screen presence keep the audience hooked.
Direction and Screenplay
Puri Jagannadh’s signature style shines through in “iSmart Shankar.” The fast-paced narration, well-choreographed action sequences, and witty dialogues add layers of excitement. The director’s ability to merge science fiction with mass entertainment is particularly noteworthy.
Music and Background Score
Mani Sharma’s music is another strong point. The film’s songs, especially “Dimaak Kharaab” and “Undipo,” became chartbusters, complementing the movie’s mood perfectly. The background score amplifies the adrenaline-pumping moments, enhancing the overall experience.
Cinematography and Visuals
Cinematographer Raj Thota captures the raw and vibrant essence of the movie beautifully. The colorful visuals, combined with gritty action scenes, create a visually appealing spectacle.
Supporting Cast
Nabha Natesh and Nidhhi Agerwal, playing the love interests of Shankar, deliver solid performances, adding charm and emotional depth to the story. The supporting actors, including Satya Dev and Puneet Issar, contribute significantly to the narrative.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Mass Appeal: The movie’s bold dialogues, catchy songs, and larger-than-life action make it a perfect entertainer for fans of commercial cinema.
- Unique Concept: The memory-transplant angle adds a fresh twist to the otherwise typical revenge drama.
- Lead Actor’s Charisma: Ram Pothineni’s performance elevates the film, making even the most over-the-top scenes enjoyable.
Weaknesses
- Predictable Plot: Despite the innovative concept, the storyline follows a familiar trajectory, which may disappoint viewers looking for something groundbreaking.
- Over-the-Top Action: While the exaggerated action sequences are enjoyable for some, they might feel unrealistic or overwhelming for others.
- Pacing Issues: Certain parts of the film feel rushed, leaving less room for character development.
Target Audience
“iSmart Shankar” caters primarily to lovers of action-packed masala films. Fans of Ram Pothineni and Puri Jagannadh will especially enjoy the movie’s energetic vibe. Those looking for a blend of comedy, romance, and action with a hint of science fiction will also find it entertaining. However, viewers who prefer subtle, realistic storytelling might not connect with the film’s loud and flashy tone.
Box Office Details
The total budget of “iSmart Shankar” was estimated at around INR 20 crore. The movie performed exceptionally well at the box office, earning approximately INR 75 crore worldwide, making it one of the biggest hits of Ram Pothineni’s career.
Day-wise Earnings:
- Day 1: INR 7.4 crore (India) and INR 1.8 crore (overseas)
- Day 2: INR 5.6 crore (India) and INR 1.2 crore (overseas)
- Day 3: INR 6.8 crore (India) and INR 1.5 crore (overseas)
- Day 4: INR 4.5 crore (India) and INR 1 crore (overseas)
- Day 5: INR 3.8 crore (India) and INR 0.8 crore (overseas)
The film’s consistent performance in its first week, coupled with strong word-of-mouth, contributed to its impressive total collection.
Recommendation
“iSmart Shankar” is a thoroughly entertaining movie that combines action, comedy, and a dash of science fiction. Despite its minor flaws, the film’s energy, music, and performances make it a worthwhile watch. If you’re a fan of larger-than-life cinema, this movie is definitely for you. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the ride!
Genres:
Action, Science Fiction, Thriller
Rating:
5.3/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Ram Pothineni | iSmart Shankar |
| Nidhhi Agerwal | Sarah |
| Satyadev Kancharana | Arun |
| Nabha Natesh | Chandini |
| Sayaji Shinde | CBI Officer |
| Ashish Vidhyarthi | Ramamoorthy |
| Raghu Babu | Raghu |
| Deepak Shetty | Devendra Viswanath |
| Puneet Issar | Kashi Viswanath |
| Tulasi | Viswanath’s Wife |
| Getup Srinu | Shankar’s Friend |
| Jayalalita | A Woman |
| Gangavva | A Woman |
| Lekha Prajapati | Cameo Appearance |
| Puri Jagannadh | Cameo Appearance |
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