A Technically Brilliant Indian Horror Movie – “Sabdham” Review:
Set in a medical college in Coonoor, “Sabdham” begins with the mysterious deaths of three students. As whispers of paranormal activity spread, the college administration decides to investigate whether these incidents are the work of supernatural forces or mere myths. Enter Aadhi, a paranormal expert from Mumbai, who is called in to uncover the truth.
Aadhi’s investigation takes a chilling turn when he discovers that Lakshmi Menon, a postgraduate student and professor at the college, is being pursued by a malevolent entity. But the horror doesn’t end there—Aadhi soon learns that 42 restless spirits are haunting the premises. Who are these spirits? What is their connection to the students’ deaths? “Sabdham” weaves this mystery together through the intriguing concept of sound, offering a fresh take on the horror genre.
Aadhi, known for his action-packed roles, steps into the shoes of a paranormal investigator with ease. His restrained yet convincing performance adds depth to the character, making him a compelling anchor for the story. Lakshmi Menon, though playing a somewhat stereotypical role as a woman tormented by supernatural forces, delivers a solid performance that leaves a lasting impression.
The supporting cast, including Simran, Laila, and Rajiv Menon, enters the narrative in the second half. While their roles are significant, their late introduction limits their overall impact. However, their presence does heighten the stakes. On the flip side, Redin Kingsley’s comedic attempts, particularly during the investigation scenes, feel misplaced. His humor disrupts the film’s tense atmosphere and may test the patience of viewers seeking a consistent horror experience.
Despite limited screen time, actors like M.S. Bhaskar, Abhinaya, and Vivek Prasanna make the most of their roles, contributing effectively to the story.
Technically, “Sabdham” shines. Cinematographer Arun Padmanabhan masterfully uses lighting and color palettes to create an eerie, suspenseful ambiance that amplifies the horror. Music director Thaman S. elevates the film with a gripping background score, and since sound is the central theme, the sound design deserves special mention. T. Udayakumar’s sound mixing and Sync Cinema’s sound design work in harmony to create an immersive experience, especially in a theater setting.
Editor V.J. Sabu Joseph keeps the pacing tight, ensuring the film remains engaging and suspenseful throughout. Director Arivazhagan, who previously explored the theme of spirits through water in “Eeram”, takes a bold step by using sound as the driving force behind the supernatural occurrences in “Sabdham”. One standout scene, where fear is evoked purely through sound, showcases his directorial prowess.
The first half of the film excels in building tension with its unsettling moments and eerie atmosphere. However, the second half introduces multiple characters and a chaotic battle of sounds that may leave some viewers confused. Additionally, the subplot involving black magic could have been explained more clearly to avoid narrative gaps.
Despite these minor flaws, “Sabdham” stands out as a unique and ambitious attempt at horror storytelling. It successfully blends sound, suspense, and supernatural elements to deliver a memorable cinematic experience.
Rating: 3.5/5