Shaakuntalam first reviews out: Samantha’s mythological drama receives mixed response

Shaakuntalam makers arranged for a special premiere ahead of the film's original theatrical release, and the response from the show has been positive.

Samantha and Dev Mohan in Shaakuntalam trailer

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Samantha Ruth Prabhu‘s Shaakuntalam, a mythological drama on Kalidasa’s poem Abhijnana Shakuntalam, is gearing up for release on April 14. However, the makers have arranged for a special premiere for critics, fans, and a select audience. While many Samantha fans have given a thumbs up for the film, calling it a perfect family entertainer, many tweets also claim that the film is underwhelming and the VFX in the film is a big letdown.

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Samantha took to Twitter to share some of the good reviews from the audience.

Thankyou for your blessings ♥️#ShaakuntalamOnApril14 https://t.co/zJyPCZJ5YF

— Samantha (@Samanthaprabhu2) April 12, 2023

Cannot wait for everyone to love #Shaakuntalam from the 14th🤍
We have done our very best.. #Shaakuntalam will soon be yours🙏🙇‍♀️#ShaakuntalamOnApril14 https://t.co/M3rpU4jI2o

— Samantha (@Samanthaprabhu2) April 11, 2023

🤍#Shaakuntalam https://t.co/vRXqSduJev

— Samantha (@Samanthaprabhu2) April 12, 2023

Praying for the same kind of love from April 14th 🤍#Shaakuntalam https://t.co/L3khPriopE

— Samantha (@Samanthaprabhu2) April 12, 2023

Many have lauded the performance of Samantha in the film and called it the best of her career. While some claim the VFX and CGI are well-done, some detractors have tweeted that the special effects were subpar and nothing like what the trailer promised.

#Shaakuntalam team over confidently premiered the movie to the public yesterday(Prior to 4 days of release)

But unfortunately the movie is getting Average – Below Average reports !! pic.twitter.com/WMCaiqo9Jw

— AmuthaBharathi (@CinemaWithAB) April 11, 2023

Many Sam fans also claim that the negative reviews are vile attempts by detractors of the actor. Looks like, the real feedback on the movie will be known only on April 14.

Directed by Gunahsekar of Rudhramadevi fame, Shaakuntalam also has Dev Mohan as Dhushyanta, Mohan Babu as Dhurvasa Muni, Aditi Balan as Priyamvada, and Sachin Khedekar as Kanva Maharishi. The story is about the heartwarming love story between King Dhusyantha and Shaakuntala, who face hardships due to the curse of Dhurvasa Muni. Mani Sharma composed the music for the film, which is produced by Gunaa Teamworks and Sri Venkateswara Creations.

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