Auto Shankar is a crime thriller that delves into the dark underbelly of Chennai’s criminal world. Released on April 23, 2019, the movie (or rather the web series) is based on the real-life crimes of Gowri Shankar, an auto driver who turned into a notorious serial killer in the late 1980s. Directed by Ranga, this gripping series was released on the streaming platform ZEE5.
With its gritty storytelling, intense performances, and shocking twists, “Auto Shankar” is an edge-of-the-seat thriller that keeps viewers engaged. It captures the rise and fall of a criminal mastermind who ruled the streets of Chennai, showcasing the brutal reality of crime, corruption, and human greed.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- 1. Intense and Engaging Storytelling
- 2. Stellar Performances
- 3. Direction and Screenplay
- 4. Cinematography and Production Design
- 5. Realistic Depiction of Crime and Corruption
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths:
- Weaknesses:
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Recommendation
- Final Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
Plot Summary
Set in 1980s Chennai, the story follows Shankar, an auto-rickshaw driver who slowly gets entangled in the world of crime, drugs, and murder. As he rises through the ranks, he gains political influence and police protection, making him untouchable. His empire grows stronger, and so does his violent nature. However, every criminal empire has a fall, and Shankar’s past soon begins to haunt him.
Through twists, betrayals, and bloody confrontations, “Auto Shankar” showcases how power and greed can transform a man into a ruthless monster. The show presents a raw and realistic take on the psychological evolution of a criminal, making it a gripping watch.
What’s Good?
1. Intense and Engaging Storytelling
The biggest strength of “Auto Shankar” is its gripping narrative. The screenplay is well-paced, ensuring that each episode keeps the audience hooked. The rise and fall of Shankar are depicted in a cinematic yet realistic manner.
2. Stellar Performances
- Appani Sarath, who plays Auto Shankar, delivers a power-packed performance. He captures the transformation from a simple auto driver to a feared gangster with raw intensity.
- The supporting cast, including Arjun Chidambaram and Vasudha, add depth to the story.
3. Direction and Screenplay
Ranga’s direction is fearless and bold. He does not hesitate to show the harsh reality of Chennai’s underworld, making the series gritty and hard-hitting.
4. Cinematography and Production Design
The period setting of the 1980s is recreated perfectly, from costumes to locations. The cinematography adds to the dark and intense mood of the story, making it visually compelling.
5. Realistic Depiction of Crime and Corruption
Unlike many crime dramas that glorify criminals, “Auto Shankar” presents the ugly truth of crime. The film does not shy away from depicting the violence and consequences of a criminal lifestyle.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Authentic storytelling based on true events.
- Outstanding performance by Appani Sarath.
- Realistic portrayal of 1980s Chennai.
- Thrilling and suspenseful screenplay.
- Dark and gritty atmosphere enhances the intensity.
Weaknesses:
- The violence and explicit scenes may not be suitable for sensitive viewers.
- Some parts feel dragged, especially in the middle episodes.
- The background score is not very memorable.
- Not a family-friendly watch due to its mature content.
Target Audience
“Auto Shankar” is best suited for:
- Crime Thriller Lovers: Fans of realistic crime dramas will find this engaging.
- Dark and Gritty Story Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate hard-hitting narratives will enjoy it.
- Fans of True Crime: If you are fascinated by real-life crime stories, this is a must-watch.
- Mature Audience Only: Due to its violent and explicit nature, it is not suitable for kids or family viewing.
Box Office Details
Since “Auto Shankar” was a web series, there were no traditional box office collections. However, here is an overview of its financial aspects:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹10 crore (estimated) |
| Total Viewership | Over 5 million views |
| First-Day Views | 1.2 million |
| First 5 Days Views | 3.8 million |
The series was a big success on ZEE5, gaining a strong following due to its engaging storytelling and raw portrayal of crime.
Recommendation
“Auto Shankar” is a dark, intense, and gripping crime thriller that stands out for its realistic storytelling and powerful performances. If you are a fan of crime dramas based on true events, this is a must-watch. However, due to its violent and mature content, it is best suited for a mature audience.
Final Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genres:
Rating:
2/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Upendra | |
| Shilpa Shetty Kundra | |
| Sudharani |
How is Our Review?
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