Released on January 23, 2026, Cheekatilo (original title: Cheekati Lo) is a hard-hitting Telugu crime-drama thriller directed by Sharan Koppisetty.
Written by Siraj Kalla, Sharan Koppisetty, and Chandra Pemmaraju, the film stars Sobhita Dhulipala, Vishwadev Rachakonda, and Chaitanya Visalakshmi.
Produced by Deccan Dreams and Suresh Productions, Cheekatilo stands out for its bleak tone, investigative depth, and focus on true-crime journalism in the digital age.
The Story: A Podcast, a Murder, and a Killer Hiding in Plain Sight
At the center of Cheekatilo is Sandhya (Sobhita Dhulipala) — a criminology graduate stuck in a suffocating newsroom job. Tired of being unheard, she quits to reclaim her voice through an independent true-crime podcast.
What begins as a quest for truth soon turns terrifyingly personal.
When Sandhya’s close friend Bobby is brutally murdered, her investigation shifts from professional curiosity to obsession. The case leads her to a chilling pattern of crimes connected to a serial rapist and killer who operates silently within the digital noise of society.
Alongside Amar (Vishwadev Rachakonda), Sandhya navigates:
- recorded testimonies that feel like funeral rites
- coded patterns hidden in violence
- institutional apathy
- and the psychological toll of chasing darkness
As she films the shadows, the shadows begin watching her back — blurring the line between hunter and hunted.
What Works in the Movie
🟢 Sobhita Dhulipala’s Fierce, Controlled Performance
Sobhita delivers one of her most intense performances — restrained yet emotionally explosive. Her portrayal of Sandhya’s rage, fear, and determination feels authentic and deeply unsettling.
🟢 Fresh True-Crime Perspective
The podcast-driven investigation adds a modern edge, reflecting how storytelling, media, and justice intersect today.
🟢 Dark, Relentless Atmosphere
The film maintains a grim tone throughout, refusing to dilute its subject with unnecessary relief.
🟢 Sharp Direction & Writing
Sharan Koppisetty keeps the narrative tight, using silence, sound design, and visual framing to build dread.
🟢 Dolby Atmos Sound Design
Audio plays a key role — whispers, recordings, and ambient noise heighten tension and paranoia.
What Could Have Been Better
🔴 Emotionally Disturbing Content
The subject matter is heavy and may be triggering for sensitive viewers.
🔴 Pacing in the Middle Act
Some investigative sequences feel slightly stretched.
🔴 Minor Logical Gaps
A few plot conveniences and continuity issues stand out, especially for attentive viewers.
Star Cast and Crew
Director: Sharan Koppisetty
Writers: Siraj Kalla, Sharan Koppisetty, Chandra Pemmaraju
Production: Deccan Dreams, Suresh Productions
Main Cast:
- Sobhita Dhulipala — Sandhya, a journalist-turned-podcaster chasing a killer
- Vishwadev Rachakonda — Amar, partner in investigation
- Chaitanya Visalakshmi — plays a key supporting role
Where to Watch 🎬
FAQs
Q: Is Cheekatilo based on a true story?
No, it’s fictional but heavily inspired by real-world true-crime cases and investigative journalism.
Q: Is the movie suitable for family viewing?
No — it deals with sexual violence, murder, and psychological trauma.
Q: What is the runtime?
Approximately 2 hours 6 minutes.
Q: What makes Cheekatilo stand out among crime thrillers?
Its focus on podcast-driven investigation, psychological realism, and a strong female lead.
Final Verdict
Cheekatilo (2026) is a dark, uncompromising crime thriller that doesn’t flinch from uncomfortable truths. With Sobhita Dhulipala delivering a commanding performance and a narrative rooted in modern investigative storytelling, the film grips, disturbs, and lingers.
If you enjoy true-crime thrillers, female-led investigative dramas, or gritty cinema that prioritizes realism over comfort, Cheekatilo is a must-watch — but brace yourself for its intensity.
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