Fri Feb 06 02:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Gunasekhar’s ‘Euphoria’ Opens to Mixed Reviews, Tackling Sensitive Social Issues

The Story:

Director Gunasekhar’s latest Telugu film, “Euphoria,” released on February 6, 2026, aiming to resonate with a younger audience. The film’s narrative centers around Chaitra (Sara Arjun), a bright student who falls victim to a brutal assault after attending a party and encountering Vikash (Vignesh Gavi Reddy) and his friends. The story follows the investigation led by City Commissioner Jayadev (Gautam Menon), exploring the challenges of bringing influential perpetrators to justice and the societal impact of drug abuse. Bhumika plays a crucial role as Vikash’s mother, grappling with the consequences of her son’s actions and seeking redemption.

Key Points:

  • “Euphoria” draws inspiration from real-life incidents, including the Jubilee Hills pub assault case, and other significant events in the Telugu states.
  • The film explores themes of drug abuse among youth, its consequences, and the challenges faced by parents.
  • Sara Arjun’s portrayal of the victim, Chaitra, and Bhumika’s performance as Vikash’s mother, Vindhya Vemulapalli, are highlighted as strong points.
  • Gautam Menon delivers a solid performance as Police Commissioner Jayadev.
  • Reviewers note that while the film addresses a relevant social issue, its execution sometimes feels like a documentary rather than a compelling drama, with a loss of focus in the second half.
  • The movie highlights the power of the POCSO Act during intermission scenes.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Euphoria” attempts to shed light on the dark realities of drug-fueled crimes and their devastating impact.
  • The film underscores the complexities of justice when dealing with powerful and connected individuals.
  • While the intention is commendable, the execution falls short of delivering a consistently engaging cinematic experience, according to initial reviews.

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