Chennai, 24 Oct 2026: Indian horror cinema has often relied on comedy and
formulas, making genuinely unsettling supernatural thrillers a welcome change. With 418, filmmaker Kirtan Nadagouda attempts to create an intense horror experience that combines paranormal encounters, psycholo gical tension, local beliefs and an under lying social message. Backed by KGF and Salaar filmmaker Prashanth Neel, the film has attracted considerable attention, particularly following reports that its frightening content drew the attention of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).
An Unforgettable Premise Rooted in Mystery
The story revolves around Vivek Shankar, played by Surya Raj Veerabathini, a young medical student from a middle-class family. Having mortgaged their house to support his education, Vivek's parents accompany
medical college in coastal Karnataka, where he is admitted to a newly renovated boys' hostel. However, the building conceals a terrifying history. Locked away for 15 years, it once served as a mental asylum where gruesome murders took place.
The hostel operates under mysterious restrictions, including a strict prohibition on women entering the premises. More disturb ing still is Room No. 418, which remains firmly off-limits. As Vivek settles into his new surroundings, unexplained para normal experiences begin to affect his mental state, leaving him anxious, frigh tened and increasingly isolated. When the college's senior counsellor, portrayed by Ramesh Indira, fails to provide convincing answers, Vivek and his roommate Rohith embark on an investi gation that draws them deeper into the build ing's dark secrets.
Ve rdict : A n Ambitious Horror Film With an Intriguing Mystery
418 is a commen dable attempt to deliver a supernatural thriller that goes beyond conventional horror formulas. Kirtan Nadagouda builds an eerie setting around a forbidden hostel room, while Surya Raj Veerabathini, Chaithra J Achar, Preethi Pagadala and Ramesh Indira contribute to the film's central drama.
Dinesh Divakaran's atmospheric cinemato graphy and Venky GG's haunting musical contribution strengthen the mood, while the mystery surrounding Room No . 418 provides several engaging moments. The film's exploration of superstition, psychological distress and women's suffering adds substance to its supernatural premise.
The film stars Chaithra Achar, Charan Lakkaraju, Surya Raj Veera bathini, Preethi Paga dala, Shashank Patil and Shree Vaishnav in the lead cast. Directed by Kirtan Nadagouda, 418 is produced by Ravi Shankar Yalaman chili and Naveen Yerneni, and presented by Prashanth Neel. Ve nky G G has composed the music, Ullas Hydoor is the production designer, and D’One Suresh Chandra is the PRO.