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Movie Name : 418
Release Date : October 23, 2026
123telugu.com Rating : 2.75/5
Starring : Chaithra J Achar, Ramesh Indira, Surya Raj Veerabathini, Charan Lakkaraju, Preethi Pagadala, and Others
Director : Kirtan Nadagouda
Producers : Naveen Yerneni, Ravi Shankar
Music Director : Venky GG
Cinematographer : Shanavas Shahji
Editor : Akul Avinash
Related Links : Trailer
418 is the latest horror film that gained good buzz with its promotional content. The movie backed by Prashanth Neel and Mythri Movie Makers is now out in theatres. Let’s see how it is.
Story:
An abandoned building that was previously a mental asylum is later converted into a college boys’ hostel. However, everyone there believes that there is some supernatural presence in Room No. 418. Vivek Shankar (Surya Raj), who is allotted Room No. 417, experiences a bizarre incident, but his friend Rohith (Charan Lakkaraju) doesn’t believe him. Determined to find the truth, Vivek pursues the matter, leading to a series of revelations.
Plus Points:
The movie relies more on atmospheric horror than traditional jump scares. The unsettling and spooky atmosphere is created effectively through its setting, lighting, sound design, visuals, and background score. The horror mood is maintained throughout.
As the makers promised, this is an organic attempt at delivering a true-blue horror film. At no point does the film deviate from its core concept. The emotional backstory lends good support to the film. All the main characters are well integrated into the central plot.
Chaithra J Achar’s performance stands out. She nails her part, and some of her expressions are genuinely scary. Charan Lakkaraju, Preethi Pagadala, Surya Raj, and Ramesh Indira perform well in their respective roles. The twists are neat.
Minus Points:
Though the makers didn’t promote the film much, a talk started growing on social media that it was the scariest film ever and had even sent chills down the spines of the censor board members. This publicity, whether intentional or unintentional, acts as the key drawback.
Hence, those expecting the usual jump scares might be disappointed, as the film prioritizes atmospheric horror over sudden scares. Conventional horror tropes aren’t used much. If watched without high expectations, the film can work for you.
The song depicting the bond between the lead characters isn’t effective. The climax could have been more impactful with better closure. At times, the narrative slows down.
Technical Aspects:
Anupam’s sound design and Venky GG’s background score are solid and elevate the impact of some key moments. The sound of anklets echoing through the auditorium is particularly effective. The editing is decent, while Dinesh Divakaran’s cinematography helps create a haunting atmosphere.
The makers have spent what was required for the film. First-time director Kirtan Nadugouda does a decent job. The way he has penned the backstory with an emotional touch is impressive. There are moments that showcase his calibre, though there is still room for improvement.
Verdict:
On the whole, 418 is a sincere attempt at horror that builds and maintains a spooky atmosphere through its setting and strong technical aspects. Chaithra J Achar does a commendable job and carries the movie on her shoulders. However, the social media hype around the film being extremely scary might leave those expecting conventional jump scares disappointed, and the climax could have been handled more effectively. If watched with the right expectations, the film might work for you.
123telugu.com Rating: 2.75/5
Reviewed by 123telugu Team
