suresh kavirayani
Actor Aadhi is well-known to both Telugu and Tamil audiences, having played lead roles in several Tamil films before taking on character roles in Telugu films like Sarrainodu, Ninnu Kori, Rangasthalam and Warrior. His first commercial breakthrough came with Eeram (2009), a Tamil supernatural thriller directed by Arivazhagan, which was later released in Telugu as Vaishali and became a hit. Eeram used water as its central supernatural element, and now, 16 years later, Aadhi and Arivazhagan reunite for Sabdham, where sound takes centre stage as the film’s supernatural force. Released simultaneously in Tamil and its Telugu-dubbed version, Sabdham attempts to create a gripping horror-thriller but falls short.
Story:
Three medical students from a college in Munnar commit suicide, but the college authorities try to cover it up, avoiding media and police intervention. The students suspect supernatural involvement behind these deaths. To dispel these fears, the college dean hires paranormal investigator Vyuma Vaidyalingam (Aadhi Pinisetty), known for using a special sound kit to communicate with spirits and solve cases.
During his investigation, Vyuma suspects a lecturer and house surgeon, Avanthika (Lakshmi Menon) and discovers a disturbing history—42 mysterious deaths in the college library. Avanthika, who does not believe in ghosts, somehow has a deep connection to these events. Meanwhile, former chairman Diana (Simran) remains in a coma, adding another layer of mystery. Who is Nancy Daniel? What dark past is hidden within the library walls? And how are these deaths connected to Avanthika? To find out, you’ll have to watch Sabdham.
Analysis:
Arivazhagan, who made a strong debut with Eeram, once again explores the supernatural genre, this time using sound as the key element. While there have been studies on the impact of sound in warfare and its therapeutic use in medicine, Sabdham takes the concept further, using it as a medium for paranormal investigation.
The first half is engaging, even though there are no chilling horror moments. The concept of a paranormal investigator communicating with spirits using sound might seem odd at first, but Aadhi’s performance makes it somewhat believable. However, the film takes a predictable turn in the second half. As the mystery unfolds, the suspense vanishes, making the plot feel repetitive and uninspired.
Performances:
Aadhi delivers a convincing performance as the paranormal investigator. Although the concept of such a character might seem unrealistic, his portrayal adds credibility to the role. Lakshmi Menon as Avanthika gives a solid performance, while Simran and Laila appear in brief but notable cameos. Redin Kingsley provides some comic relief, offering a few laughs in between the tension. The supporting cast, primarily from the Tamil industry, does well in their respective roles.
Technical Aspects:
Thaman’s music, while effective in parts, becomes overwhelming in several scenes, diminishing the intended impact. A horror-thriller does not always need loud, jarring sounds to create fear—sometimes, a subtle score or silence works better. Arun Bathmanaban’s cinematography is commendable, capturing eerie visuals well, but the film’s overall execution doesn’t do justice to its concept.
For a film titled Sabdham (which translates to “sound”), the excessive use of loud background music ironically becomes its biggest flaw. While thrillers and horror films rely on sound to build tension, sometimes silence can be far more effective. Unfortunately, in Sabdham, the overuse of sound effects leads to irritation rather than suspense. The screenplay falls apart in the second half, with the linking of the deaths, suicides and the library’s past executed in a routine and outdated manner. The antagonist’s introduction just before the climax feels abrupt and forced. Despite an intriguing premise, Sabdham ultimately suffers from weak storytelling and missed opportunities.
Verdict:
While Sabdham attempts to deliver a supernatural thriller with an innovative concept, it fails to maintain suspense and originality. The excessive use of sound, a predictable second half and outdated storytelling weigh the film down. Although Aadhi’s performance is commendable, the film does not match the gripping tension of Eeram. Sabdham ends up as a routine supernatural thriller with only a few genuinely engaging moments.
Cast: Aadhi, Lakshmi Menon, Simran, Laila, Redin Kingsley,
Rajiv Menon, and others
Cinematographer: Arun Bathmanaban Music Director: S. Thaman
Producers: Siva, S. Banupriya Siva Director: Arivazhagan
Rating: 2/5
