Movie Review : 418
418 is a 2026 supernatural horror film directed by Kirtan Nadagouda, presented by Prashanth Neel, and produced by Mythri Movie Makers.
Set in the Covid era, the film revolves around the period when the early COVID-19 fears were high.
In a medical college campus in Vedagiri, Karnataka, a fresher medical student Vivek Shankar (Surya Raj Veerabathini) moves into a boys' hostel that was a mental asylum earlier
Next to it, is situated the cursed and mysterious Room 418. The room carries many dark memories of a Yakshagana artist named Devika (Chaithra J. Achar). Who was she and what deadly secrets lie there?
The film builds up the eerie suspense and hypes up the psycological elements which are bound to appeal to fans of the genre.
The ethnic Yakshagana visuals with the local flavour, all add to the cinematic experience and add a distinct texture to the film.
The cinematography and sound design departments have effectively elevated the horror and mystery aspects of the film. The musical score too deserves kudos. The set design also aids in elevating the scare factor.
Chaitra's performance is a highlight of the film as she effectively portrays her role with immense conviction and depth.
But in many places the proceeedings seem to slow down and the genre seems to get diluted; for instance, scenes of the students and their hostel life take up screen time. The repetitive nature of some of the horror tropes seem to lessen the impact and interest of the viewer.
Overall, a rivetting watch
Rating 3/5
Cast: Chaithra J. Achar, Ramesh Indira, Surya Raj Veerabathini, Charan Lakkaraju, Preethi Pagadala
