Ghaati Review
Ghaati is a tribal revenge saga that doesn’t shy away from the dirtiest corners of power, survival and retribution. With Anushka Shetty front and centre, the film leans heavily on mood, atmosphere and raw emotion to stay alive — and mostly succeeds — despite its rough edges.
The Story Plot
Set along the tough terrain of the Eastern Ghats, Ghaati follows Sheelavathi (Anushka Shetty), a woman caught in a criminal web she never asked for. Circumstances pull her into the drug trade and smuggling world dominated by ruthless power brokers. Alongside Desi Raju (Vikram Prabhu), she fights not just for her own survival, but to restore dignity to her oppressed community.
What Works
Anushka Shetty’s fire – Even when the script stumbles, Shetty carries the film on her shoulders. Her turn as a woman transforming from victim to force of reckoning is bold, nuanced, and physically demanding.
Visual grit & setting — The landscapes of the Ghats feel like a character themselves, harsh and unforgiving. Cinematography leans into shadows, smoke, fire and dense foliage to inject texture.
Ambition in themes — The film doesn’t just go for revenge; it touches on marginalisation, caste divisions, and how power exploits vulnerability.
Ensemble support — Vikram Prabhu’s Desi Raju provides emotional ballast. Though not perfect, supporting actors lend weight to world-building and stakes.
What Drags It Down
Uneven screenplay : The plot is at times predictable. Some twists feel telegraphed, and certain character arcs lack the development they deserve.
Tone & pacing issues : The film stretches in parts. A few segments sag under their own weight, making the middle act feel sluggish.
Overstuffed ambition : With so many themes in play and multiple character threads, Ghaati occasionally loses focus.
Verdict
Ghaati is far from a flawless film — but it’s compelling in parts, thanks largely to Anushka Shetty’s committed performance and the film’s bold visual identity. If you’re in the mood for a revenge drama that leans heavy on mood and less on polish, this is a worthwhile watch.
Rating: 3 / 5
