Masooda on OTT: Sangitha, Thiruveer make a mark in this horror-thriller that bats for compassion and humanity

Masooda, written and directed by newcomer Sai Kiran, is among the rare horror films in Telugu that’s made like a genre piece with solid drama, avoiding a handful of clichés. After its theatrical release in November, the film will be on streaming on aha later today. The film makes good use of the fact that there are no heavyweights in it. Thiruveer, Sangitha are capable actors who know when and where to let the story take centrestage and do well to drive the film’s essence forward.

While the film is certainly exciting for its technical appeal, the horror segments and how the plot is set up, it lingers on your mind because of its take on humanity. The protagonist, Gopi, is timid and there comes a point in life where he has to choose between his loved one and a close neighbour (Nazia) who’s in danger. Many friends convince Gopi to stay from his neighbour’s problems, mind his own business and get on with life as if nothing happened.

However, realising that he is the only the shoulder than Nazia’s family can lean on, Gopi goes out of the way to help them. For someone who’s even scared of cockroaches, Gopi tries to help a vulnerable girl take on a ghost. The story revolves around a middle-aged divorcee (with a daughter) and a young software employee. In the hands of most directors, there would’ve been a forced romantic angle between the two. Here, it becomes a powerful statement on compassion.

Sai Kiran chooses an unusual genre to talk of the importance of humanitarian concern and the need to stand up for each other as a community in the hour of need. Masooda starts with the idea of ‘why should one help each other?’ and makes you say ‘why not?’ Bandhavi Sridhar, Kavya Kalyan Ram chip in with memorable performances as well. The backstory of the spirit is not as impactful as one expects it to be.

Nagesh Banell’s cinematography, Prashanth R Vihari’s background score and the terrific sound design enhance the impact of the viewing experience. If only the makers were more considerate of the runtime (over 160 minutes), Masooda would’ve certainly sent a chill down your spine. This isn’t the horror film that scares you but one that makes you think. Masooda is best savoured as a theatrical experience though, with a good sound system, it could prove to be handful on OTT too.