Gaami (2024) User Reviews

Visually Awesome, Sonically Stunning, Narratively Compelling but inconsistent Continuity

[Raviiiiiiiii_iiiii · 8/10 · 8 March 2024]

The film captivates the audience with its stunning cinematography, keeping viewers in awe throughout. Credit is due to the actors for embracing challenging roles and infusing every scene with liveliness. The narrative unfolds with intensity, compelling the audience to decipher the connections between each storyline. The filmmaker's passion for cinema shines through in the spectacular visuals and sound design, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

However, the film falls short of meeting some audience expectations. Continuity within scenes is crucial for immersion and satisfaction, yet this aspect seems lacking at times. While the background music and elevations in certain scenes heighten anticipation, they can also lead to disappointment due to abrupt jump cuts in pivotal moments. Viewers desire to witness events unfolding seamlessly, even if they anticipate the outcome.

In essence, while the film's beauty is undeniable, it's imperative to address the need for continuity to fully engage and satisfy the audience.

Be warned, Gaami is ambitious, unconventional and world class stuff from Telugu Cinema!

[samxxxul · 8/10 · 8 March 2024]

"Gaami" breaks free from Telugu cinema cliches, offering a profound and humane journey of self-discovery. Unlike most mainstream films that rely on sensationalism, director Vidhyadhar Kagita crafts a beautiful and artistic experience. So it's simple, if you're craving a racy plot, a formulaic hero worshipping, high moments, or some message at the end, "Gaami" isn't your movie. This debut film is a cinematic novel, exploring the relentless struggle (Sisyphean persistence) and emotional extremes of its main characters at the expense of flawed writing which isn't a big letdown. Every element, from editing, VFX, Art direction to Sound design manages to hold the film's atmosphere. Even the interval sequence challenges expectations. Unlike typical Telugu films that rely on a big bang or goosebumps, Gaami offers something different but not ordinary with just one day left to find the rare Mali Patra flower, the only solution as it breaks for interval. Many viewers remained glued to their seats, maybe they were expecting a goosepimple moment or intermission text. Of course, there's nothing wrong with crowd-pleasing interval bang and high moments, but Gaami proves we don't need the same formula every time. It's a shame that majority of audiences are accustomed to the fast pace of short videos, expect every movie to be like a 30-second Instagram or TikTok clip.

Even the finale perfectly exemplifies the films theme and pacing, Shankar's (Vishwak Sen) journey comes full circle in a satisfying way, without unnecessary exaggeration or resorting to theatrics. The ending is quiet, with a moment of silence and no music, followed by a bittersweet score as Shankar discovers the human touch, cure, healing, and redemption.

And now Gaami isn't flawless, the screenplay, while managing to be intriguing, could have benefited from tighter focus on parallel storylines compared to the impressive visuals. Editing choices feel jarring at times to cover up the budget, and some scenes might feel repetitive. The gore, though present, might not satisfy fans of horror and gorehound genre like me considering the film's A certification. But i feel the mainstream viewer might find even the existing gore unsettling. The attempt at a non-linear, anthology style narrative might feel like it overreaches and tests the audience's patience.

However, I have to admit some bias and give brownie points. The sheer effort and passion poured into this project, culminating in its release, deserves some credit. The film will likely draw comparisons to world movies, but showcasing its influences the film manages to stay true and rooted. It's important to note that Gaami leaves some questions unanswered, which might frustrate some viewers seeking complete melodramatic closure. While the film isn't flawless, its technical achievements and artistic merit are so strong that many of its shortcomings can be forgiven.

In summary, This DIY project later backed by UV creation is truly special for Telugu cinema. The film's unhurried pace, akin to a slow burn, might test majority of Telugu cine-goers and mass audience patience. It might not be for everyone but for those who appreciate artistic endeavors and support such daring attempt, this is a must-watch. Gaami is the kind of movie that passionate cinephiles must support and spread the word!

State of the art

[best-review · 6/10 · 8 March 2024]

The story is laced with intriguing elements, and while there might be a handful of moments that don't fully hit the mark, the overall narrative is quite engaging. The screenplay demands your undivided attention and a keen mind to fully appreciate its depth, adding a layer of sophistication to the viewing experience. There are moments where the pace might seem leisurely, but these are more than made up for by the sheer visual spectacle on display. The film features breathtaking visuals, from exotic locales to state-of-the-art VFX, complemented by exceptional cinematography and impeccable color grading. The background music enhances the atmosphere significantly, and while the songs are decent, the outstanding sound quality elevates the auditory experience.

Vishwak Sen's dedication shines through in his performance; although it might not fully meet the demands of the role, his effort is commendable. The rest of the cast delivers with commendable zeal, contributing to a well-rounded ensemble. For those considering watching this film, it's best experienced in a theater that does justice to its superior sound and visual quality, ensuring the fullest appreciation of its technical excellence.

A beautiful painting with no heart

[maestromanohar · 6/10 · 9 March 2024]

It's a really gutsy attempt from the makers to offer a unique experience to the Telugu audience, but that's all where it stops.

Apart from the adventure part, the movie has got two other subplots, which aren't really integrated well into the main plot. Being a medico myself, I predicted the story and the climax right at the beginning. Was waiting how director would execute that, but it was done so lazily. Also, the whole lab experiment seemed pointless, was dealt in the most half-baked manner. Also, the entire Himalayan voyage had so many cinematic liberties, done for the sake of plot convenience and progression.

Technically, the hardwork of all the crew is seen in every frame, superb job.

Director Vidhyadhar has done a decent job, but somewhere that killer punch was missing. Nevertheless, it was a good watch, but expected much more.

One of the best movie

[vchandrika-09548 · 10/10 · 10 March 2024]

Last night only I watched this movie , I didn't even watched the trailer . . From the starting of the movie to the end the experience is very good the concept is very unique and creative , the transitions between the shots are very smooth and impressive loved the acting of each and everyone , and also liked the way how they choose the better words to explain the climax scene , better not read or listen any negative views .this movie is not everyone's cup of tea so better go watch with out any second thought for sure this move " REMAINS IN INDIAN CINEMA ". Seriously hands down to the director and the editing crew for creating this absolute masterpiece.

An interesting concept with some grt performances!!

[sanjubhat · 7/10 · 2 May 2024]

Film Review: Gaami ( The Seeker) ... Telugu film streaming on Zee5!!

Gami is a different film with three stories running in parallel

• an amnesiac Aghora Sadhu ( Vishwak Sen) who suffers from a fear of human touch and embarks upon a perilous journey in the Himalayas to find a cure for his condition.

• a young boy who is turned into a lab rat and subjected to inhuman experiments in a remote medical facility.

• Uma , the young daughter of a Devdaasi Durga runs the risk of being made the Devadasi when her mother is diagnosed with a terminal illness.

What do these three stories have in common?

I would recommend this film only to people who like things "zara hatke" which is exactly what Gaami is all about. A non linear narrative, disjointed stories running in parallel along seemingly confusing storyline. If u r game for this kind of experimental stuff, then Gaami is the film for you.

Vishwak Sen gives a restrained performance, playing a person who suppresses his frustration & angst at not being able to find a cure for his debilitating condition. Others members of the cast too deliver their parts well. VFX, BGM & cinematography are good overall.

On the flip side .. the non linear narrative makes you wonder where exactly the film is heading & causing a bit frustration to creep in . The story too slows down intermittently which again doesn't work in its favour.

The end reveal, however is worth the wait & the film winds up well even though things could have been tightened up a bit !! Not bad either!!

A different kind of a film .. not for everyone!!

I'll go with 3/5 for this one .. Adios 🙂!!

#gaamireview #gaami #vishwaksen #sanjuzzreviews #ZEE5.

A Brainless visual triumph...!!!

[PANDIAN120621 · 4/10 · 12 April 2024]

The director's thought-provoking themes and fresh ideas shine throughout, but a few highly convenient narrative choices undo the magic to some extent. The dialogues don't help either and sometimes pull you out of the beautiful world the team has created. However, the major drawback for me was the lack of an emotional connection with the characters...

If you are a person who loves to experience new genres of films then this is the movie for you. A seat edge survival thriller which keeps you damn engaged throughout the film. And the visuals, background music and story are top notch will definitely gives you a new experience. Director really did a very good job in telling three stories and the way he fused them altogether...

But what forms major setback is the director is just influenced by Alejandro Gonsalves work which reflects everywhere but failed to keep the logical issues unacceptable...

1. The idea proposed by the top scientist to convert intersex individuals into complete males or females involves electrocuting them while exposing them to images of one particular sex, with the belief that inducing trauma will guide the body to choose the other sex. This approach is not only absurd but also lacks basic understanding of psychology...

2. A human cannot survive with out food for one day and in extreme conditions not less than 8 hrs but in this movie there was no food & they managed to survive...

3. If you watch the movie as you can see hero falling from mountain 3 times and still able to survive & even last scen he just cut his neck towards side usually any human cannot even talk or survive but hero just roared at lion...

4. With what did he hooked the frisbee that it balanced two ppl...

5. Did he eat the mashroom in the air...

6. Where did this lion appear all of a sudden where one could just see olar bear under such conditions...

Overall a noble intension of path breaking film to experience is the the key factor that saves the director in terms of audience point of view...

A Debutant's Classic

[rahmanuddinsyed · 9/10 · 8 March 2024]

Gaami is a man's journey to seek how it feels to get the physical touch of his own people and his adventures to get rid of the problem he has and feel the contact.

Positives:

1. The incredible hardwork of the Dir. Vidyadhar is clearly seen in each frame he directed with limited resources he had.

2. The Classic Shankar Mahadevan vocals playing in the background when Shankar is in full mood to achieve the maalipatra for leaves behind the mark in the movie.

3. The 3 characters speak a lot even though all of them get limited screen time.

Negatives:

1. Some loopholes 2. The plot twists were something that would easily get predicted if you are fond of the particular genre of the film (hollywood) but this was the very one of a kind in TFI which is the only thing matters.

3. The screenplay was good but it would be great to see if it was rushly paced in the 2nd half too feel the damn tense environment.

At the end it is a film every Cinephile must watch.

Visually striking, but narratively bland.

[AnirudhGod · 4/10 · 11 March 2024]

The movie has good intentions. It starts out to be a story about Shankar, an agora (played by a dozing Vishwa k Sen), going on a journey, seeking a cure for his condition which prevents him from experiencing human touch. He starts to get visions of a boy stuck in a depraved research facility that experiments with mind control through lobotomy; a woman, devadasi, being sexually exploited for money by some crooked temple chief; and a little girl who winds up to be the daughter of the devadasi. Those three storylines converge in a weird and bonkers twist.

One of the fatal flaws of this film is the headache-inducing pacing, and the bland, uninteresting characters. See, I love films as art, but films pretending to be art is not what I like. The pacing is all over the place, and the music blaring in every scene. It didn't sit well. But the cardinal sin is, I couldn't even care a least bit about the characters' journeys, because I couldn't even relate to them. I don't know them. I don't know where they come from, where they want to go, what they feel about things in their past. Things just happen and it all unfolds randomly. It's as if the writers ticked all the story beats, but failed to inject character life that defines them. It's plain bad writing.

It could've been forgiven if Shankar had a least bit of character arc. Nothing, he has nothing. Oh, wait, he has. His journey is to realize a lame twist of his life. Otherwise, he's just a blank slate who moves forward with the plot, when some random doctor chick (played competently by Chandni) joins this journey randomly, out for some research purpose, which turns out to be for her 3 year old daughter, and I couldn't understand. Vague as hell. Together, they go on a death-defying journey without any safety. No gloves in the snow, zero basic hiking equipment and safety, and random death defying falls which should kill you in an instant. And after the nonsensical hike, they reach some mushroom mountain. And then after some random scenes, Shankar gets a big revelation. His memory. That the parallel running storylines of a boy in research facility, and the daughter of the devadasi, are all connected to him. In what way, I won't tell you. See the kalakand om for yourself. One of the lamest twists I have in a while is this one. A twist with no substance, excitement, nor any credible thematic relevance.

There were glimpses of something interesting. Like the red herring of Shankar being the father of the little girl of the Devadasi. The possibility of him being the husband of that devadasi was really interesting. That was a potential character backstory I could've latched on to, but no. It's disposed of, all for a lame twist.

It's as if Donald Kaufman worked on a draft of this and called it day. All these Donald Kaufman twists in these wannabe cerebral movies are driving me crazy. I don't want to see another gimmick anymore. Just give me a visceral story, with a good backstory, motives and conflict.

And that's it. Technically, it's all right. The production design was top-notch, and the camerawork was really good. I could feel the frames illuminating with vibrancy, especially for an Indian film. But, I mean, compared to the norm of world-cinema, this is just another husk. The score was competent but overbearing throughout. There were no real moments where I could actually register what I was listening to, because it just felt like some regular epic-movie soundtrack you listen to on YouTube. Other than the teaser horn hook, the soundtrack felt like a blur. It's because the movie felt like a blur. Just like the titular Shankar not remembering his past, I don't think I'll remember this movie. Probably, only if a lame twist hits me on the mind after some mushrooms, and I remember this movie. After that, I'll probably die out of hyphae-boredom-phobia instead.

TELUGU FILM STEP TOWARDS HOLLYWOOD

[kvsandeepkumarreddy · 10/10 · 8 March 2024]

For me it's one of the best content oriented film ever made in TFI, it's a perfect suspense thriller it made its own way in that i appreciate it very much, only draw back was too high BGM at unwanted sense, so i am very happy to say we are Indians, we are also capable of making content oriented zoner films, its a starting step for us one day we will conquer the film industry i hope.

The characters and the intension of was so high Literally i am watched Gaami after watching From series why i am saying because the series was too engaging then also the film gaami created a huge intensity and suspense for me

My intension was to encourage these kind of content oriented fill.

Good intention won't constitute a great movie

[krshychait · 5/10 · 10 March 2024]

On paper, the story of "Gaami" is impressive but when translated on to the screen, the impact is not the same. The newbie director, Vidyadhar does not allow his lead character, Shankar to connect with the audience. Never does the audience feel sympathy towards him or else feel sorry for him. By making his lead character a brooding and introvert, director does not allow the character to grow on the audience. Even with his sympathetic friends, Shankar behaves in a closed manner. There is no urge from Shankar to find a cure to his condition. He is forced to take the journey to Himalayas after he is thrown out of the Ashram. He does not own the journey and at all points of time, he tries to put a pause to his journey. With this handicap in the character graph, Director relied too much on the final twist in story to give an emotional high to the audience but by that time the final plot is revealed the audience is jaded and tired of watching the same scenes in a loop. The entire purpose of Shankar's journey is not understood. Also not understood is the existence of Jahnavi's character in the screenplay. She does not add any value to the proceedings. It is the track of the child Uma and her bonding with her mother which really gets the audience hooked to the story. I just wish the director thought of one scene where Shankar opens his heart and speaks with Jahnavi thereby connecting him to the audience. There are too many liberties taken by the director to take the story forward. He creates an impossible situation for the characters but does not show the way on how they overcome the situation. He does not allow the characters to make a bond with the audience with their tenacity and resolve when faced with adversity. That is where Gaami loses its plot.

A fantastic and fabulous work in Telugu Cinema.

[sanjaykondapally · 10/10 · 8 March 2024]

It's an adventurous and a thriller subject which is engaging and fresh feel. It makes your theatrical experience more enjoyable.

The work done by VIDYADHAR,the director of the film has conveyed the point of the film very perfectly and clearly. The music by Naresh kumaran was excellent and wonderful.

And still, what not it has everything needed for its genre.

The one who understands the story gets very impressed like me but the one doesn't understand, gives negative reviews. Don't believe it. Go watch then just decide your opinion yourselves.

And In coming days it goes pan indian and makes records in its own way.

Thank you 😊. #LovetowardsGAAMI.

Different, but not good

[jayantisrivatsa · 3/10 · 10 March 2024]

While the story is interesting, the slow-paced screenplay, particularly in the first half, could have been better-paced. The director should have paid more attention to maintaining the momentum throughout.

Certain visuals captured in the Himalayas are breathtaking, complemented by top-notch music that enhances many scenes, thanks to the talented technical team behind these aspects.

Scenes involving the experiments could have been presented more dynamically to increase the film's dramatic impact. Additionally, the revelation of twists and the subsequent climax scenes could have been executed more effectively to elevate the film's overall quality.

While the film has a good story and good visuals, it has not been executed properly and fails to engage the audience with its slow narration.

Way too high class for masala addicts

[bunny-78998 · 9/10 · 2 April 2024]

I dare say that no one has the knowledge to acknowledge this cinema. Especially tollywood, who encourages routine rotta mass masala films. It is sad to say that we are in a world where pushpa and salaar is considered a blockbuster and gaami is not. This movie has all the stuff to be released in a Hollywood scale. This director must leave his career in tollywood and someone from Hollywood must have him. This director is a pure genius.

Telugu people: Lag pro max Also telugu people(for dune 2): Kutha ramppp!!

My personal and unpopular opinion: I did not like dune 2 because it is boring af. I have slept through the entire climax of the movie because it's that boring. If the same movie is from a Hollywood production house, this wouldn't come as a shock if people would go crazy for it.

Not a good movie. Horrible

[eversmile-68320 · 3/10 · 10 March 2024]

I really got headache watching this movie especially second half. It should understand minimum. Don't know what story is. I really got headache watching this movie especially second half. It should understand minimum. Don't know what story is. I really got headache watching this movie especially second half. It should understand minimum. Don't know what story is. I really got headache watching this movie especially second half. It should understand minimum. Don't know what story is. I really got headache watching this movie especially second half. It should understand minimum. Don't know what story is.

An edge of the seat thriller

[tharunraj-73152 · 9/10 · 14 April 2024]

This movie is not for a regular masala hero worshipped Telugu movie goer, you will surely get bored. If you are someone who appreciates art and story telling in creative ways - this movie is for you. The music, visuals and the choice of words in dialogue is impressive, especially for a new director. A movie thats of Hollywood style and rooted story line. Sure there are some flaws in the script - but the director did exceedingly well to hook the audience throughout. If this had come out of a big budget hollywood production house, people would have gone nuts. Finally, if you want to watch the movie - enjoy in the theatre or with a great music system and screen.

Only graphics donot take children to this movie

[sinematalks · 1/10 · 10 March 2024]

Only graphics of movie is good. Please donot waste your money on this movie. Donot take kids to this movie. I feel somewhat pshycotic movie in few scenes. I liked only Himalayas in this movie nothing else. If you wanna see Himalayas you can go but your brain will be rotten after watching this movie.

I donot understand how vishwak sem accepted this movie story.

If want to spoil your brain go to this movie. If u wanna be happy donot go to this movie. Not for kids not for kids not for kids only one star I'm giving because of graphic work slow movie rotten pshycotic scenes just bit of good music and graphics other than that nothing else in the movie family audience please avoid it.

Not for average Telugu or even Indian audience! Applause to the makers!

[rahulreddy-2287 · 9/10 · 12 May 2024]

The immediate Hollywood movie that came into my mind while watching this was Cloud Atlas! A magnificent piece of work ahead of its time back then and one of my top 3 movies of all time! Gaami gave the same experience but fell short in some scenes which could've been improved which is why I reduced one rating, but bravo for this attempt in such a film making where the world would go awestruck!

The story, screenplay, background score were all top notch! And of course the performances were too good! It showed the human perseverance to the extremes on how a man can overcome any obstacle in order to achieve the impossible in life! Thank you!

All style No substance

[HollyGolightly123 · 1/10 · 8 March 2024]

While I was impressed by trailer, the movie is simply bad. It started with an interesting premise - a man seeking cure for a rare condition.

As we witness 3 different stories, they weren't engaging enough but you wait to see the connection. The connection is dealt so sloppily and lazily that you feel like you wasted your 2.5 hr of your life. Climax was so rushed and comical that people were laughing in my theater.

The heroine character is badly written. Screenplay is so poor that you notice jarring flaws. The story takes a million liberties which makes everything pointless. Why this movie needed 5 years in making still puzzles me.

Technically the movie is good for first time filmmakers. But it lacks emotional connect, engaging storytelling, overall entertainment value. In name of novelty and experimentation, the plot lost its way. Telugu audiences need better cinema.

Awesomeness movie

[tbind-81732 · 10/10 · 14 March 2024]

Movie is very nice and you would enjoy watching the Movie.

Specially the linking of characters through out the movie is mind blowing Songs are awesome and very visual connected well to the situation of the movie.

It's a thriller and would keep you on the edge of the seats for sure.

So far it's considered to be the best movie by the lead role Vishwak sen and he stood tall and given his best out of directors requirement. Lead female actress did fabulous and is very convincing in her role. The better part of the movie is a visual feast for those who love adventure and thriller kind of movies. Best of luck.

A missed opportunity for a story on a grand scale.

[srikkanth-m · 5/10 · 8 March 2024]

Gaami is a story of a reclusive Aghora trying to find a cure for his condition. We are introduced to three parallel plot lines, much like an anthology, and we get to see the characters struggling at various levels. The rest of the story is about whether they would be able to overcome their struggles.

While this story had a lot of potential to be a blockbuster thriller, the director's lack of conviction in handling the subject makes this an average watch. The writers take almost 45 minutes to kick start proceedings in act 2 while not giving us anything to hold on to in act 1. While transition to act 2 starts with an interesting premise, the director could not sustain that curiosity into act 3. The movie falters quite drastically in act 2 with illogical adventure set pieces that seem ridiculous.

This writing needed good dialogues but what we get instead is a bland exposition that barely creates any impact. There are too many liberties taken which dilute the seriousness of the plot. Although the movie redeems itself a little bit in act 3, by the time it gets there all the interest is lost as there are too many unanswered questions in the end.

The director focused more on the visuals instead of focusing on storytelling. We barely get any reasoning for the events happening on screen and we are expected to somehow connect emotionally with the characters which did not happen.

Bottomline, this story had a lot of scope and potential to be a spectacle in the right hands. But director Vidhyadhar Kagita fails to deliver the impact.

This film marks beginning of a new storytelling format for TFI

[jaythee · 9/10 · 21 March 2024]

This movie is a bold attempt from a debut director, and I can say with heart filled with joy that he succeeded. The film starts off on an interesting note and sets up the plot really well. The director wove the three different story lines very well. The visuals as evident from the trailer are simply stunning, how they pulled it off on a shoe string budget is a head scratcher. If you haven't watched the movie in the theatres, I would highly recommend it, as it is a unique experience not to be missed.

If the director is ever reading this - "kudos to you man, thank u for setting such a high standard for all the upcoming directors. Looking forward to more of your work."

It's anti Hindu representation and poor knowledge of our culture

[ndgprasad · 2/10 · 19 April 2024]

Movie is boring with lots of loopholes. This movie is perfect representation of church's narrative for conversion. Movie includes fake narrative on Devadasi, fake narrative on aghoras, anti Hindu.

At the end this movie is boring without any soul.

If director makes proper movie without any Western agenda this movie might be good.

Movie's main actor role is diluted by bad dialogues. Senseless scenes and useless side actor.

I felt director got confused between sanatana Dharma and Buddhism. Director put efforts to show Hinduism in a bad light. Please stop this kind of non sense. Have guts to show our culture is good light.

Good movie

[kumarprajith-03325 · 10/10 · 6 May 2024]

I would recommend this film only to people who like things "zara hatke" which is exactly what Gaami is all about. A non linear narrative, disjointed stories running in parallel along seemingly confusing storyline. If u r game for this kind of experimental stuff, then Gaami is the film for you. I would recommend this film only to people who like things "zara hatke" which is exactly what Gaami is all about. A non linear narrative, disjointed stories running in parallel along seemingly confusing storyline. If u r game for this kind of experimental stuff, then Gaami is the film for you. I would recommend this film only to people who like things "zara hatke" which is exactly what Gaami is all about. A non linear narrative, disjointed stories running in parallel along seemingly confusing storyline. If u r game for this kind of experimental stuff, then Gaami is the film for you.

Out of the box movie👌👌

[praveensiu · 9/10 · 13 March 2024]

Totally an out of the box movie ,excellent and keeps you engaged and the topics he touched science , religion and god parallely without offending anyone. He just stuck to human emotions and how each topic affects individuals is shown in a very convincing manner. Some issues were there in the movie because of budget constraints but on the whole it was a great effort by the team. Kudos to writer and director in conveying this untraditional story without confusing lot of people. It takes a lot of effort to convert this story this convincingly from paper to screen. All the best to the entire team, if this movie came from a different industry than Telugu people would be going ga ga over it. I liked the abstract nature in the movie where some characters are left in the middle without any conclusion because it was not needed for the story he chose to tell .