Psych Siddhartha Review: A slick start, a messy finish

Psych Siddhartha… What’s it all about?

Siddharth Reddy (Shree Nandu) is betrayed in business, and to make matters worse, his lover cheats him for money. Left financially and emotionally shattered, Siddharth slips into alcoholism and directionless life in a rented house. Living on the floor below is Sravya (Yaamini Rao), a single mother whose presence gradually begins to alter the course of his life. Does Siddharth ultimately find purpose and redemption, or does he continue to live as a troubled “psych”?

Analysis

Releasing on the very first day of 2026, “Psych Siddhartha” sees Shree Nandu in the lead, while also co-producing the film and contributing to the additional screenplay. His deep involvement is evident, suggesting this project is more than just another acting assignment for him. From the outset, debutant director Varun Reddy and Shree Nandu appear keen on presenting the film in a contemporary manner.

The stylistic editing initially works in the film’s favour, creating an impression that the director is attempting a trendy narrative approach. The first half moves at a breezy pace, focusing more on mood than plot. It establishes Siddhartha as a man betrayed in business, pushed into alcoholism, and further broken by a cheating girlfriend. Running parallel is the story of a single mother living on the floor below, who has escaped an abusive marriage.

The film begins to falter when it expands on this fairly simple premise of a wounded woman transforming a broken man. The second half slips into familiar territory, becoming formulaic, repetitive, and increasingly chaotic, with very few engaging moments to sustain interest.

As a performer, Shree Nandu continues to show growing maturity and delivers a sincere portrayal, even when the writing lets him down. Yaamini Bhaskar fits comfortably into her role and does what is required. On the technical front, barring the initial editing style, the film lacks any standout elements.

Note: The film contains a heavy dosage of profanity, frequent use of explicit language, and a sex scene.

Bottom line: “Psych Siddhartha” starts off with stylistic and a modern narrative touch, but gradually turns dull and overstretched, missing the emotional depth needed to hold attention, and makes a tedious watch.

Rating: 2/5

By TC Team