Last updated: 8 May 2026
Hindi · Drama
2h 15m · 6 Feb 2015
Music: Ilaiyaraaja | DOP: P. C. Sreeram | Writer: R Balki
Ratings
Our Rating
2.75
Shamitabh is a unique story revolving around Dhanush, a mute aspiring actor, and Amitabh Bachchan, a disgruntled voice artist. The film explores their unusual collaboration where Amitabh lends his voice to Dhanush's character, enabling him to speak on screen. The narrative delves into the complexities of ego, friendship, and ambition as the duo navigates the highs and lows of fame and personal conflicts. Akshara Haasan plays the female lead, adding emotional depth to the story.
Shamitabh presents an intriguing concept that blends drama with a touch of dark humor. The screenplay is inventive, focusing on the interplay between the two protagonists' contrasting personalities and their shared journey. The pacing is deliberate, with the first half setting up the characters and their motivations effectively, while the second half delves deeper into the emotional and psychological conflicts, though it occasionally slows down.
The film's music by Ilaiyaraaja complements the narrative well, with songs that are melodious and situationally relevant. The background score enhances the emotional tone without overpowering the scenes. Cinematography by P. C. Sreeram is visually appealing, capturing the nuances of the characters' expressions and the urban milieu.
While the concept is fresh, the execution sometimes feels uneven, particularly in the latter half where the screenplay tends to drag. However, the performances and technical finesse keep the viewer engaged throughout. Overall, Shamitabh is a thoughtful exploration of voice and identity, supported by strong technical elements and memorable music.
Dhanush: Convincing portrayal of a mute actor, expressive and nuanced.
Amitabh Bachchan: Strong presence as the voice artist, balancing ego and vulnerability.
Akshara Haasan: Provides emotional support and charm, though limited screen time.
Strengths
Weaknesses
R. Balki delivers a distinctive narrative with a focus on character-driven storytelling. His direction highlights the emotional and psychological layers of the protagonists, though the screenplay could have been tighter in the latter half to maintain momentum.
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| 3.00 / 5 | |
| 3.50 / 5 | |
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| 3.00 / 5 |
Our Rating
No collection data available yet.
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 40% |
| Neutral | 35% |
| Negative | 25% |
Critics appreciated the originality of the concept and the lead performances, especially praising the chemistry between Dhanush and Amitabh Bachchan. The music and cinematography received positive mentions. However, some critics pointed out the uneven pacing and a dragging second half as drawbacks. Overall, the film was seen as a commendable attempt with a few narrative flaws.
Final Box-Office Result
Shamitabh released on 6 February 2015 (2015).
Shamitabh is declared a AVERAGE at the box office.
Budget of Shamitabh is approximately ₹324597 Crore.
Shamitabh is available on Eros Now Select Apple TV Channel. OTT date will be updated soon.
Shamitabh directed by R. Balki. Produced by Damani Roberts, Dhanush, R Damani, Amitabh Bachchan, Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, Ekta Kapoor, R. Balki, Shobha Kapoor, Sunil Manchanda, Abhishek Bachchan.
Shamitabh stars Dhanush, Amitabh Bachchan, Akshara Haasan.
Tollybo rates Shamitabh 2.75/5. Verdict: AVERAGE.
Music for Shamitabh composed by Ilaiyaraaja.
Shamitabh — Genre: Drama, Runtime: 135 minutes, Language: Hindi.
