: It is frequently categorized as "softcore" disguised as a thriller, with critics noting that its primary draw is explicit nudity rather than its mystical narrative. Tantrica (Short 2018) - IMDb
She stepped into the circle of his lantern light. She was Maya, a guardian of the temple's hidden oral traditions. She explained that the
The film features an international cast and was shot in multiple locations, including India and Australia. Aiysha Saagar Prince Aaditya Shabbir Ali Dev Justin Gerardin Sam Chris Bridgewater Tina Ashleigh Rainer Critical Reception: Polarising Reviews
What it is
However, not all responses were negative. A segment of viewers, particularly those who appreciated the film's sensual content, offered more generous assessments. One reviewer acknowledged, "For a short film, there is so much detail with so many locations", while another praised the lead actress's courage in tackling the subject matter, stating, "Takes guts to act in this subject". The film found a particular audience on YouTube, where it reportedly garnered over 20 million views, with some sources claiming that 80% of viewers loved the movie.
The film's budget of $360,000 was relatively substantial for a short film, raising questions about resource allocation. Critics noted that despite the investment, the final product suffered from amateurish execution in multiple technical departments, from sound editing to screenplay development.
The film was mounted as a low-budget, independent short feature. Production credits highlight a lean crew focused on maximizing visual aesthetic within restricted financial constraints. Cast Member Character Description Aiysha Saagar Kalpana, the power-hungry Tantrica Supporting Actor Shabbir Ali Prince Aditya, a royal seeking ashram knowledge Modern Target Justin Gerardin Dev, an ordinary man ensnared by Kalpana Antagonist/Medium Ashleigh Rainer Tina, a modern psychic trying to stop Kalpana Director Michael Jalal Mj Main creative director and visionary for the project Marketing, Release, and Digital Footprint Tantrica - The Dark Shades of Kamasutra 2018 We...
: In present-day Gold Coast, Australia, a couple experimenting with tantric meditation unwittingly frees Kalpana. She quickly adapts to the modern world, meeting a new lover named Dev (Justin Gerardin), a man of royal Rajput descent who is unaware of her dark past or the mysterious deaths trailing her arrival. Key Cast and Crew
Let's keep the conversation going. What do you think about the exploration of tantric practices and the Kamasutra in modern times? Have you had any experiences or insights that you'd like to share?
Despite its b-movie execution, the project maintained a surprisingly structured indie production cycle. Michael Jalal Screenplay: Aiysha Saagar Estimated Budget: Around $360,000 USD Primary Cast: Aiysha Saagar as Kalpana Shabbir Ali as Prince Aditya Justin Gerardin as Dev Ashleigh Rainer as Tina Kristna Saikia as Mohini Bob La Castra as Detective Dude Themes: Kamasutra vs. Exploitation : It is frequently categorized as "softcore" disguised
The production is a 40-minute short film characterized by its use of vibrant colors and an atmospheric score. Reception and Critical Analysis
It features a jarring tonal shift between an ancient mountain ashram and a modern beachfront. This gives the film a disjointed, campy quality often discussed in cult-film forums. Distribution and How to Watch