Dhootha, a web series directed by Vikram K Kumar, showcases Akkineni Naga Chaitanya in the lead role, marking his debut in the OTT realm. Today, on December 1st, 2023, the series has been released on Prime Video. Here’s my perspective on the show.
Overall Verdict:
Dhootha, this gripping web series culminates in its eighth and final episode, audiences find themselves on an exhilarating journey through the intricate narrative woven by director Vikram K Kumar. Naga Chaitanya’s stellar portrayal of Sagar, the journalist entangled in a web of mysteries, coupled with the dynamic presence of Parvathy Thiruvothu, has kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The series seamlessly blends elements of crime, drama, and the supernatural, with each episode delivering unexpected twists and turns. Vikram K Kumar’s masterful storytelling takes a bow in Episode 8, a cinematic masterpiece that flawlessly connects the past and present, providing a satisfying conclusion to the intricate plot. As the supernatural element intertwines with Chaitanya’s personal and professional life, the series delivers a memorable and impactful finale, leaving audiences with a sense of fulfillment and anticipation for the next thrilling chapter in storytelling.
For those enchanted by Vikram K Kumar’s directorial prowess, the magic continues with an extended and captivating version in Dhootha on the OTT platform. Known for crafting cinematic wonders in films like 13B, 24, and Manam, Kumar’s unique touch promises an immersive experience that’s not to be missed. Get ready to be spellbound!
*** For those diving into this episode-wise analysis, a heads-up: spoilers might be lurking ahead, so proceed with caution ***
Episode 1:
Naga Chaitanya shines as Sagar, a journalist, in a gripping web series. The narrative seamlessly blends the present with a flashback, focusing on the importance of a mysterious piece of paper. The episode explores conflicts between journalists, emphasizing the ethical challenges they face.
Visually stunning, the episode maintains a cinematic quality, with Chaitanya delivering an excellent performance. Family dynamics are introduced, with Priya Bhavani Shankar playing Sagar’s wife, adding depth to the storyline. Director Vikram K Kumar’s skillful direction keeps the audience engaged.
The plot takes an unexpected turn as Sagar’s rival tragically ends his own life by holding a newspaper. This twist adds a layer of suspense, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next developments. Overall, Episode 1 offers a thrilling mix of suspense, drama, and strong performances, setting the stage for an intriguing series.
Episode 2:
Naga Chaitanya’s rival’s tragic past unfolds, tied to a mysterious newspaper dictating destinies. Parvathy Thiruvothu enters as a sharp-witted police officer, linking Chaitanya to crime scenes. The plot twists as Chaitanya finds himself in an unrelated crime, and the episode concludes with a newspaper offering a cryptic clue. The series skillfully weaves fate and puzzles, enhanced by Parvathy’s compelling presence and Chaitanya’s nuanced protagonist role. Episode 2 sustains suspense, ensuring a captivating mix of mystery and character complexity moving forward.
Episode 3:
The episode opens with Naga Chaitanya trying to cover up evidence for a crime he’s not directly involved in. Parvathy Thiruvothu’s investigation connects two seemingly unrelated crimes involving Chaitanya, sparking viewer curiosity. The episode concludes with a surprising twist as a newspaper unveils the personal relationships of Sagar The Journalist, adding complexity to the narrative.
Episode 4:
The episode explores Naga Chaitanya’s character Sagar’s complicated past with his Personal Assistant, leading to an unexpected enemy in the present. Simultaneously, Parvathy Thiruvothu conducts a smart investigation to uncover evidence hidden by Chaitanya in Episode 3. The episode concludes tragically, with a piece of paper becoming a victim in Sagar’s life, adding emotional depth to the storyline.
Episode 5:
Episode 5 stands out in the series, taking a dramatic turn by introducing a supernatural element to the crime thriller. This unexpected twist adds a new layer of intrigue, captivating viewers and sparking curiosity about what lies ahead in the remaining episodes. The inclusion of the supernatural element also ties into the complexities of Naga Chaitanya’s character, Sagar, particularly in his family life. This episode effectively justifies the title of the series, promising an engaging blend of crime and supernatural elements in the unfolding narrative.
Episode 6:
The series transports us back to the 1960s, unraveling the roots behind all the present-day drama. It serves as an educational exploration of journalism’s significance and the repercussions when misused. The flashback introduces new characters from that era, shedding light on the historical context. This shift in time adds depth to the narrative and sets the stage for the final two episodes, creating anticipation for how the story will unfold following the revelation of the supernatural element. With a runtime surpassing that of previous episodes, this installment adds significant depth to the narrative.
Episode 7:
The episode marks the return to the present as Naga Chaitanya joins forces with Parvathy Thiruvothu to unravel the mystery behind the pieces of newspapers. Together, they solve the puzzle to prevent another crime. The episode concludes on a special note as the supernatural element provides a hint to Naga Chaitanya. Additionally, a surprising twist related to Chaitanya’s family is revealed, adding a layer of intrigue and setting the stage for the series’ conclusion.
Episode 8:
Episode 8 stands as a cinematic masterpiece under the brilliant direction of Vikram K Kumar. The seamless connection between the past and present is executed with outstanding finesse, elevating the series to new heights. The episode unfolds with captivating twists, engaging viewers until the thrilling conclusion. Vikram K Kumar’s storytelling prowess is on full display, delivering a memorable finale that leaves a lasting impact and provides a satisfying conclusion to the show.
*** Both Naga Chaitanya and Parvathy Thiruvothu shine in this web series, making it a standout moment in their careers. A definite must-watch!
