Producer Vamsi Nandipati urges support for small films amid ‘Eesha’ review row
Film producer Vamsi Nandipati has spoken strongly in support of small films in the Telugu film industry, asking audiences and reviewers to be fair and responsible. He shared his views at an event called “Stand for Our Eesha – Save Small Films”, which was held after the release of the horror thriller Eesha.
The event was organised following concerns from the film’s team about negative reviews circulating online. According to the makers, some reviews did not reflect the true quality of the film and appeared soon after its release. Vamsi Nandipati said such reactions can seriously harm small films that depend heavily on word of mouth and audience trust.
Speaking at the gathering, the producer said cinema should always be judged on honest effort and content, not on hidden agendas or organised negativity. He explained that small films are often made with limited budgets and resources, and unfair criticism can quickly reduce their chances of success. “We work with belief and passion,” he said, “and we only ask for honest feedback.”
Eesha was released in cinemas on Christmas Day and belongs to the horror thriller genre. The film features a young cast and is directed by Srinivas Manne. Nandipati said the team tried to make a gripping and entertaining film that would appeal to fans of suspense and horror. He added that the makers never expected special treatment, only a fair chance.
During his speech, the producer spoke about the wider problems faced by small and medium-budget films. He said that big productions often have strong marketing power and wide releases, while smaller films struggle to get screens and attention. In such a situation, early negative talk on social media can deeply affect theatre occupancy and audience interest.
Nandipati also appealed to reviewers and digital platforms to be more responsible. He said criticism is welcome when it is genuine and thoughtful, but harmful comments without context or balance only damage creative work. “Cinema is not just business,” he said. “It is the hard work of many people who dream of telling a story.”
Several members of the film industry attended the event and expressed similar concerns. They agreed that small films play an important role in bringing new ideas, fresh talent and different stories to audiences. Many speakers said that if such films are not supported, the industry may lose creativity and diversity.
The cast and crew of Eesha have continued to promote the film, encouraging viewers to watch it in theatres and decide for themselves. Actors from the film thanked audiences who had already shown support and asked others to give the film a fair viewing before forming an opinion.
Industry observers note that online reviews and social media reactions now influence cinema more than ever. While this gives audiences a voice, it also creates pressure on filmmakers, especially those without strong backing. A few hours of negative publicity can undo months of effort for a small team.
In closing his speech, Vamsi Nandipati said he believes audiences are intelligent and fair. He expressed hope that viewers would support honest cinema and allow small films like Eesha to survive and grow. “If you like it, encourage it. If you don’t, criticise it fairly,” he said.
As Eesha continues its run in cinemas, the discussion sparked by the event has once again highlighted the need to protect and respect small films in a fast-changing film industry.
