Movie Title: Double iSmart
Language: Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada
Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Mass Masala
Director: Puri Jagannadh
Producers: Puri Jagannadh, Charmme Kaur
Actors: Ram Pothineni, Sanjay Dutt, Kavya Thapar, Bani J, Sayaji Shinde, Makarand Deshpande
Runtime: 161 minutes
Rating: 2.9/10
“Double iSmart” is the high-octane sequel to 2019’s “iSmart Shankar,” pushing the envelope with a sci-fi twist on the mass action formula. Directed by Puri Jagannadh, the film attempts to blend mind transfer, gang warfare, and over-the-top heroism in a colorful, adrenaline-fueled package. It aims to deliver a larger-than-life spectacle while retaining the energy and madness that defined its predecessor.
Plot Summary
The film follows Shankar (Ram Pothineni), now caught in a bizarre scientific conspiracy. Big Bull (Sanjay Dutt), a dying international gangster, plots to implant his brain data into Shankar’s body to live on. What follows is a wild ride of memory clashes, action-packed chases, and confrontations as Shankar struggles to retain his identity while being manipulated as a human weapon.
Direction and Screenplay
Puri Jagannadh’s direction is flamboyant, leaning heavily into mass-appeal elements and fan-service moments. The screenplay, however, lacks cohesion. While the initial setup promises a gripping sci-fi thriller, the narrative quickly devolves into formulaic territory with loud dialogues, excessive slow-motion, and jarring tonal shifts. There’s energy in the storytelling but little nuance or depth.
Performances
Ram Pothineni is energetic and physically committed, but the character writing restricts emotional resonance. Sanjay Dutt’s presence adds gravitas, though his villain arc feels underdeveloped and heavily dubbed. Kavya Thapar and Bani J have limited roles and little impact. Sayaji Shinde and Makarand Deshpande add some mass flavor but don’t rise above the generic writing.
Technical Aspects
The cinematography is slick in parts, especially during action sequences, but often relies on flashy visuals that lack grounding. The VFX is inconsistent some scenes look stylized, while others feel rushed. Mani Sharma’s music is thumping but overbearing at times. The editing struggles to maintain rhythm, especially during the film’s chaotic second half.
Strengths
- Ram Pothineni’s screen presence and energy
- Sanjay Dutt’s intimidating look and setup
- Slick action choreography
- Mani Sharma’s high-voltage background score
- Sci-fi concept with commercial ambition
Weaknesses
- Incoherent screenplay with poor pacing
- Underdeveloped characters and subplots
- Excessive reliance on mass tropes
- Over-the-top dialogue and visual style
- Weak emotional core and logic gaps
Final Verdict
“Double iSmart” is a chaotic, ambitious sequel that prioritizes style over substance. While it might please hardcore fans of Ram Pothineni and loud commercial entertainers, it falls short in narrative coherence and emotional impact. The film’s attempt to blend sci-fi with mass action feels more gimmicky than groundbreaking.
Recommended for
Fans of loud masala entertainers, followers of the original “iSmart Shankar,” and viewers who enjoy high-energy action with minimal emphasis on realism or storytelling depth.