Every week, Kannada film enthusiasts eagerly expect an original film, only to be disappointed. Shubham is directed by the young Ravi Garani, who proved his mettle with TV serials like Kavyanjali. But Garani has wasted a golden opportunity by packing his film with too many unexpected and illogical twists, making it a big bore. He has achieved this despite a strong technical team and good artists at his disposal.

The only two positive features of the film are fantastic photography by Giri and good music by Guru Kiran. Hani hani ibbani, ninna baachikolluva aase really is a haunting track. Sadly, good visuals and music aren't enough to make a good film.

The first half of the film is slightly better than the second. The narration of the first half is paced tolerably well, but too many illogical twists and turns kill any possible interest in the proceedings. Lack of originality is another negative aspect, as many scenes remind you of films like Ramachari (remake of the Tamil hit Chinna Thambi) and the Tamil Kadhalukku Mariyadhai.

The film revolves around a cable operator, Venky, who accidentally meets Priya and falls in love with her. When he finds out that her marriage has been fixed, he kidnaps her and takes her to a forest. Priya, so far living a life surrounded by overprotective brothers, slowly starts understanding Venky. Or is this merely Stockholm Syndrome? After many implausible events, Priya tries to save Venky from a deadly disease but the film ends in tragedy. As a tired member of the audience, you will come out of theatres either yawning or with a splitting headache.

Shivadhwaj has tried his best to portray the role of Venky as convincingly as he could. Mumbai-based Sanjitha has also done a decent job with the role of Priya. Veteran actor Lokanath is, as usual, brilliant, while Kishor makes a good impact as a villain.

It is the story and direction that is the major letdown.

Rediff rating: