Double iSmart is a 2024 Indian Telugu-language science fiction action film directed by Puri Jagannadh, who co-produced it with Charmme Kaur under Puri Connects. Serving as a spiritual sequel to the 2019 film “iSmart Shankar,” the movie features Ram Pothineni reprising his role as Shankar, alongside Sanjay Dutt (in his Telugu debut) portraying the antagonist Big Bull. The cast also includes Ali, Kavya Thapar, Sayaji Shinde, and Bani J. The musical score was composed by Mani Sharma, with cinematography by Shyam K. Naidu and Gianni Giannelli, and editing by Karthika Srinivas.
Overview Of Movie Double iSmart
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Puri Jagannadh |
| Written by | Puri Jagannadh |
| Produced by | Puri Jagannadh, Charmy Kaur |
| Starring | Ram Pothineni, Sanjay Dutt, Ali, Kavya Thapar |
| Cinematography | Shyam K. Naidu, Gianni Giannelli |
| Edited by | Karthika Srinivas |
| Music by | Mani Sharma |
| Production Company | Puri Connects |
| Distributed by | Primeshow Entertainment, Mythri Movie Makers (Telugu), Sakthi Film Factory (Tamil Nadu) |
| Release Date | August 15, 2024 |
| Running Time | 162 minutes |
| Country | India |
| Language | Telugu |
| Budget | ₹90 crore (estimated) |
| Box Office | ₹18 crore (estimated) |
Double iSmart Plot/ Story
Double iSmart follows the story of Shankar (Ram Pothineni), a vibrant and street-smart guy from Hyderabad’s Old City. Known for his fearless attitude and sharp mind, Shankar finds himself entangled in a dangerous game when he crosses paths with Big Bull (Sanjay Dutt), a powerful international mafia don.
Big Bull, diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor, seeks to achieve immortality through an advanced scientific procedure that transfers his memories into another person’s brain. Shankar, who had previously undergone a unique memory transplant in iSmart Shankar, becomes Big Bull’s prime target for this risky experiment.
As Shankar learns about Big Bull’s sinister intentions, he embarks on a mission to protect himself and avenge his mother’s death, which is linked to Big Bull’s past crimes. The film unfolds with intense action sequences, mind-bending sci-fi concepts, and Shankar’s signature attitude as he battles both technologically advanced threats and ruthless criminals.
With high-energy dialogues, pulsating music by Mani Sharma, and Puri Jagannadh’s signature mass appeal, Double iSmart combines gritty street fights with futuristic elements, creating a power-packed cinematic ride.
Double iSmart Cast
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Ram Pothineni | Ustaad “iSmart” Shankar alias Double iSmart |
| Chekiri | Young Shankar |
| Sanjay Dutt | Big Bull |
| Ali | Boka |
| Kavya Thapar | Jannat Mehrunnisa (Shankar’s love interest) |
| Sayaji Shinde | CBI Officer Parmeshwaram |
| Bani J | Bentley |
| Makarand Deshpande | Dr Thomas |
| Jhansi | Pochamma (Shankar’s mother) |
| Pragathi | Old Pochamma |
| Temper Vamsi | Addagutta Akbar |
| Jairoop Jeevan | Harshvardhan |
| Uttej | CI K. Ravi Prakash |
| Getup Srinu | Shankar’s friend |
| Rohini | Lady constable |
| Ganesh Yadav | Police inspector |
| Kecha Khamphakdee | Chinese mafia Wong |
| Vishal Sharma | Security officer |
| Puri Jagannadh | Himself (Cameo in the song “SteppaMaar”) |
Review
Double iSmart brings back the high-energy, mass-action style that director Puri Jagannadh is known for, but this time with a futuristic twist. While the film aims to expand on the success of iSmart Shankar, it struggles to maintain the same charm and impact.
Positives:
✅ Ram Pothineni’s Performance: Ram Pothineni once again shines as Shankar, delivering an intense, energetic performance. His swagger, dialogue delivery, and dance moves keep the audience entertained.
✅ Sanjay Dutt’s Presence: As Big Bull, Sanjay Dutt adds weight to the antagonist role. His menacing screen presence is one of the film’s highlights.
✅ Action and Visuals: The film boasts some well-executed action sequences with stylish visuals. The futuristic brain transplant concept adds a unique touch.
✅ Music and BGM: Mani Sharma’s pulsating background score and energetic songs elevate the mass appeal, particularly tracks like “SteppaMaar.”
Negatives:
❌ Weak Storyline: Despite an interesting sci-fi concept, the narrative feels rushed and lacks emotional depth. The plot struggles to connect the futuristic elements with Shankar’s personal journey.
❌ Over-the-Top Elements: While Puri Jagannadh’s signature loud dialogues and exaggerated scenes may appeal to some fans, others might find them excessive.
❌ Underutilized Characters: Talented actors like Kavya Thapar, Sayaji Shinde, and Bani J have limited screen time and poorly developed roles.
❌ Pacing Issues: The film loses momentum in the second half, with repetitive action scenes and predictable twists dragging the narrative.
Verdict:
Double iSmart tries to blend mass entertainment with a sci-fi twist, but it falls short of its ambitious vision. While fans of Ram Pothineni and Puri Jagannadh’s style may enjoy the action-packed moments, the film struggles to deliver a gripping plot.
Rating: ⭐⭐½ (2.5/5)
