Jambu Circus Movie Review:
MD Sridhar has always been a filmmaker who believes in the power of drama. At a time when many directors chase newer genres and fresher themes, Sridhar continues to rely on his trusted formula—family emotions, friendships, romance, and a fair dose of sentiment. It is his comfort zone, and perhaps also his strongest suit. His latest film Jambu Circus reaffirms that belief, weaving together childhood bonds, youthful romance, and the inevitable complications of family pride.
Cast: Praveen Tej, Anjali Anish, Avinash, Achyuth Kumar, Ravishankar Gowda, Swathi Gurudutt, and Lakshmi Siddaiah
Director : MD Sridhar
The story begins with Murali (Achyuth Kumar) and Shankar (Ravi Shankar Gowda), lifelong friends who once shared marks, dreams, and secrets. Their bond begins to strain when rivalry brews between their wives, leading to a cycle of bitterness passed down to the next generation. Ironically, their children—Akash (Praveen Tej) and Ankita (Anjali Anish)—fall in love, forcing both families to confront whether friendship and love can withstand ego and pride.
The film shines brightest in its campus sequences. Sridhar, who earlier gave audiences memorable youthful sagas like Friends, Chellata, and Bulbul, shows he hasn’t lost that flair. The banter between the young leads feels natural, their group dynamics warm, and little touches—such as a cheeky Google Pay gag or a comic cameo by Nayana—add unforced freshness. The staging of Shakuntala and Dushyanta within the story brings in a filmy charm, reminding us of Sridhar’s ability to fuse romance with playful energy.
Where the film falters is in its portrayal of family conflict. The repeated quarrels between the mothers, the cyclical grudges, and the constant flare-ups slow down the narrative. These stretches underline Sridhar’s commitment to melodrama but also his unwillingness to move away from familiar beats. At times, the balance between breezy campus fun and heavy household clashes feels repetitive, making the film longer than it needs to be. Still, the twist introduced early gives the climax some meaning, even if the path there feels overly indulgent.
Performances anchor the film throughout. Achyuth Kumar, as always, lends quiet strength and sincerity, while Ravi Shankar adds depth to his conflicted role. Praveen Tej and Anjali Anish bring youthful charm, ensuring the romance holds weight. Swathi Gurudutt, Lakshmi Siddhaiah, Avinash, and Nayana stay true to their parts, rounding out an ensemble that helps Sridhar’s drama feel grounded even when the screenplay wanders.
At its heart, Jambu Circus asks a simple question: can childhood friendship survive the bruises of adulthood and the pride of families? Sridhar’s answer is not absolute—it is hesitant, occasionally moving, and convincing in parts. Like the relationships it portrays, the film itself is tender, fragile, and full of contradictions.
Ultimately, this is a family drama that revives an older strain of melodrama for today’s big screen. With Sridhar’s trusted touch, it rekindles a spark for families who still enjoy such spectacles together. Much like its title, Jumbo Circus brings a riot of emotions—sometimes uneven, often heartfelt—but under this director's tent, the show carries on.