Telugu movie The Girlfriend (releasing 7 Nov 2025) Movie Review

Here’s a review of the Telugu movie The Girlfriend (releasing 7 Nov 2025) starring Rashmika Mandanna, directed by Rahul Ravindran.

Basic Info

Title: The Girlfriend 

Release date: 07 Nov 2025 

Language: Telugu (also released in other languages) 

Director: Rahul Ravindran 

Lead cast: Rashmika Mandanna, Dheekshith Shetty 

Music: Hesham Abdul Wahab 

✅ What Works

Rashmika’s performance is being widely praised. Early reactions say she “wins hearts” and many call it her best till date. 

The film is said to be character-driven, focusing on emotions and relationships rather than pure mass-commercial elements. Rashmika herself described it as “a film where we speak about things we generally don’t talk much about”. 

The music and visuals have been noted for their appeal (for example the song “Nadhive” released earlier). 

⚠️ What Might Not Work / Weaknesses

Some viewers say the pacing is slow, and the narration somewhat inconsistent. 

Because it is more subtle and emotional rather than high-on action/commercial thrills, it may not satisfy those expecting full-on “mass entertainer” fare. (Rashmika noted it “isn’t a laugh-out-loud story, but it’s an important story”.) 

🔍 My Verdict

If I were to sum up: The Girlfriend is worth watching, especially if you enjoy emotional love stories anchored by a strong performance from the lead actor. Rashmika Mandanna clearly carries the film and is a big highlight.

However, go in with the expectation of a mature romantic drama rather than a full-blown commercial entertainer. If you prefer fast‐paced action or high drama, this might feel a bit restrained or slow in parts.

🎯 Who Should/Shouldn’t Watch

Should watch: Fans of Rashmika Mandanna; viewers who enjoy character-driven romance/drama; those open to a slower, emotional narrative.

Might skip or adjust expectations: If you’re looking for non-stop high-voltage commercial action or loud mass scenes, this may feel quieter and more introspective.

Mithra Mandali (Telugu) Review: A Fresh Take on Friendship & Fun?

Mithra Mandali, the latest Telugu offering, aims to deliver a refreshing narrative centered around friendship, camaraderie, and perhaps a touch of youthful exuberance. 

But does this film truly hit the mark, or does it get lost in its own intentions? Our Mithra Mandali Review delves deep into what works and what doesn't in this much-anticipated movie. 

Directed with a vision to capture the essence of modern friendships, the film brings together a cast that promises a blend of relatable characters and engaging performances.

The Mithra Mandali movie review will explore the film's screenplay, which attempts to weave humor, emotion, and perhaps a message about the bonds we forge. 

We'll examine the performances of the lead actors and supporting cast, assessing whether their chemistry translates effectively onto the screen and if they successfully embody their roles. 

The music, a crucial element in any Telugu film, will also be scrutinized for its contribution to the narrative and its overall impact. 

Furthermore, our Mithra Mandali Telugu review will cover the technical aspects, including cinematography, editing, and production values, to see if they enhance the storytelling or fall short. 

Is Mithra Mandali a must-watch for its unique take on friendship, or does it tread familiar ground without much innovation? Read our full review to find out if this film is worth your time and money.

Vijay Devarakonda latest telugu movie 'KINGDOM' review

Vijay Devarakonda's latest Telugu movie, "Kingdom," released on July 31, 2025, has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. The spy action thriller, directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, sees Devarakonda taking on the role of Suri, a police constable on a mission.

Plot and Direction:

The film's story, set in 1991, follows Suri (Vijay Devarakonda) who goes undercover to Sri Lanka to find his estranged brother, Siva (Satyadev), a key figure in a smuggling ring. The narrative delves into themes of betrayal, moral dilemmas, and survival as Suri navigates a complex and dangerous world.

Director Gowtam Tinnanuri, known for his work on "Jersey," brings his signature style to "Kingdom," particularly in the first half with its gripping setup involving smuggling gangs and army conflicts. However, some critics noted that the film's emotional core weakens as the story progresses, and the narrative loses steam after the reunion of the two brothers. The climax, while action-packed, was criticized for a lack of emotional depth. Some reviewers also felt the film was influenced by recent mass-action films, which may have impacted its emotional clarity.

Performances:

Vijay Devarakonda's performance as Suri has been widely praised as one of the strongest in his career. He is said to have delivered a sincere and grounded performance, effectively portraying the character's intensity and emotional turmoil. Satyadev, as the elder brother Siva, also delivers a solid and flawless performance, with the relationship between the two brothers forming the heart of the story.

However, the character of Dr. Madhu, played by Bhagyashri Borse, was reportedly underdeveloped and felt unnecessary to some.

Technical Aspects:

The film has been lauded for its technical prowess. The cinematography by Jomon John and Girish Gangadharan is a major highlight, with rich and polished visuals. Anirudh Ravichander's background score is another significant asset, effectively elevating the film's key moments.[5] The song "Ragile Ragile" in particular was noted for conveying the protagonist's anger and pathos.

Overall Reception:

"Kingdom" has received a mixed response. While some have hailed it as a "blockbuster" and a "good action drama with high production values and acting," others have found it to be "ordinary" and "boring." Many agree that while the film has its moments and strong technical aspects, it doesn't fully satisfy and is best watched with managed expectations. Several reviews suggest that while it may not be a perfect film, it stands out among recent "saviour tales" and offers Vijay Devarakonda a chance to deliver a powerful performance.

Here’s a Telugu movie review of Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 – Sword vs Spirit starring Pawan Kalyan

🎬 Overview & Background

Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1, directed by Krish Jagarlamudi (initially) and later co-directed by Jyothi Krishna, released worldwide on 24 July 2025 after extensive production delays. The ₹250 crore pan‑India film stars Pawan Kalyan in the titular role alongside Bobby Deol, Nidhhi Agerwal, Nargis Fakhri, and others. 

✅ What Works

• Power Star Pawan Kalyan delivers a commanding screen presence—his charisma holds the film together even when the narrative falters.

• Exceptional action sequences standout in the first half: Machilipatnam port fight, Charminar chase, and a Kushti match block in Kollur. 

• M.M. Keeravani’s background score elevates many key moments, lending emotional depth where the screenplay lacks it. Visual production values—sets, costumes, cinematography—particularly in the first half, showcase attention to historical detail. 

❌ What Falls Short

• The narrative loses steam in the second half, with repetitive filler scenes and a disjointed structure that feels rushed. The film tests viewer patience as it drags on. 

• VFX quality is a major letdown—CGI sequences in the climax, horse chases, and windstorm scenes feel amateurish and unfinished. 

• Tonality and editing issues disrupt flow: misplaced humor, inconsistent beard styles on Kalyan, and awkward staging dilute the impact. 

• Screenplay and dialogues feel outdated—many scenes come across as fan‑service rather than meaningful storytelling. 

• Cast underutilization: Nidhhi Agerwal’s character shows promise but fades; Bobby Deol’s Aurangzeb is underwritten despite redesign efforts. 

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🗣 Audience & Social Reception

Mixed to negative response overall:

• Fans praise the first half and Kalyan’s portrayal, but criticize the slow, incoherent second half and poor VFX. 

• Netizens complain of "senseless screenplay," "disastrous dialogue," and call the film a missed opportunity despite hype. 

• Some prominent fans, like Hyper Aadi, expressed praise and excitement—but these voices remain in the minority. 

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🧾 Final Verdict

Component	Verdict
Performance	Pawan Kalyan anchors film; rest of ensemble is uneven
First Half	Engaging and grand
Second Half	Weak, slow-paced, with narrative fatigue
Action & Score	Highlights of the film; standout combat and music
VFX & Technicals	Subpar CGI undermines attempt at visual grandeur

• FilmyFocus rates it 2.5/5, noting that only Kalyan’s star power keeps it afloat. 

• CinemaExpress gives 1.5/5, calling it disjointed and lacking core storytelling. 

• Sakshi Post echoes this, branding it a “visual letdown” and an uninspired, exhausting watch. 

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🎯 Who Should Watch It?

Only recommended for die‑hard Pawan Kalyan fans and those fascinated by stylized period films, who can tolerate narrative flaws for star spectacle. If you're expecting a cohesive historical saga with emotional heft, this may disappoint.

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Despite its ambition and grandeur, Hari Hara Veera Mallu: Part 1 becomes a case of style over substance. While the opening acts and action set pieces entertain, the second half and technical shortcomings overshadow the spectacle—making it more memorable for its hype than its execution.

Balakrishna's Daaku Maharaaj Telugu Movie Review

2 Hr 27 Mins   |   Action   |   12-01-2025

Cast - Nandamuri Balakrishna, Bobby Deol, Pragya Jaiswal, Shraddha Srinath, Urvashi Rautela, Chandini Chowdary, Shine Tom Chacko, Makarand Deshpande, Sachin Khedekar, Ravi Kishan, VTV Ganesh and others.

Director - Bobby Kolli

Producer - Suryadevara Naga Vamsi & Sai Soujanya

Banner - Sithara Entertainments & Fortune Four Cinemas

Music - Thaman S

"Daaku Maharaaj," directed by Bobby Kolli and starring Nandamuri Balakrishna, is a Telugu-language action drama released on January 12, 2025. The film has garnered mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences.

Plot Summary: The narrative centers on ACP YD Raju (Balakrishna), an ex-cop drawn back into action to tackle a high-profile kidnapping case. Assisting him are Meenakshi IPS (Meenakshi Chaudhary) and his wife, Bhagyalakshmi (Aishwarya Rajesh). The trio navigates a series of challenges, blending action and humor, to resolve the case.

Critical Reception:

The Times of India rated the film 3.5/5, noting that "Daaku Maharaaj is a high-octane entertainer that thrives on Nandamuri Balakrishna’s commanding performance, stylish action sequences, and impressive technical values." 

123Telugu awarded a 3.25/5 rating, stating that "Daaku Maharaaj is an enjoyable action drama, though its story is predictable. Director Bobby does a good job of presenting Balayya neatly and stylishly." 

GreatAndhra commented that "Nandamuri Balakrishna showcases three distinct looks in the film, and his makeover is impressive. His performance, as expected, is intense in key moments and captivating in action sequences." 

CineJosh mentioned that "'Daaku Maharaaj' is a stylishly made action film with Balakrishna mark mass moments, but suffers from a predictable narrative." 

Performances: Balakrishna's portrayal of ACP YD Raju has been widely praised for its intensity and charisma. Meenakshi Chaudhary and Aishwarya Rajesh deliver commendable performances, adding depth to their respective roles.

Technical Aspects: The film is noted for its high production values, with particular acclaim for its stylish cinematography and Thaman S's energetic background score, which elevate the action sequences.

Conclusion: "Daaku Maharaaj" offers a blend of action and drama, catering to fans of Balakrishna and the genre. While the storyline follows a predictable path, the film's presentation and performances provide an engaging cinematic experience.

Nithin's Macherla Niyojakavargam Telugu movie Review

Movie: Macherla Niyojakavargam

Banner: Sreshth Movies

Cast: Nithiin, Krithi Shetty, Catherine Tresa, Anjali, Samuthirakani, Vennela Kishore, Rajendra Prasad, Murali Sharma, and others

Dialogues: Mamidala Thirupathi 

Music: Mahathi Swara Sagar

DOP: Prasad Murella

Art: Sahi Suresh 

Editor: Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao

Presents: Rajkumar Akella 

Producers: Sudhakar Reddy, Nikitha Reddy 

Written and Direction: M.S Raja Shekhar Reddy 

Release Date: Aug 12, 2022

Story:

Awaiting the posting, the UPSC topper Siddharth Reddy aka Siddhu (Nithiin) spends jolly time in Vizag and falls for Swathi (Krithi Shetty), the sister-in-law of his neighbour Guntalakadi Gurnatham (Vennela Kishore). A few days later, Swathi goes to her hometown Macharla without informing him. 

In search of her, he reaches Macharla only to find that the constituency is in the grip of rowdy leader Rajappa (Samuthirakani).

Just as Siddharth lands in the town, he gets confirmation that he is posted as the collector of the Guntur district. The rest of the drama is collector Siddhu vs Rajappa.

Nithiin gets a makeover from romantic dramas and tries an out and out mass film for the first time. He looks good and handles the mass scenes with a lot of confidence. His body language and dialogue delivery suit the mood of the film. Catherine Tresa is neat in her supporting role but does not get to showcase much.

Vennela Kishore is good with his comedy role and takes a major part in the first half. His ego based character looks good but is over done in a few areas. Rajendra Prasad and Murali Sharma are just about okay in their roles. Anjali sizzles in a special song which is a crowd pleaser.

Krithi Shetty gets a good role and does well in the best of her limitations. The main villain is played by Samuthirakani and he is effective as the bad guy. The mass fights have been designed well especially the Jatara sequence is quite good.

Read DJ Tillu Telugu Movie Review

 DJ Tillu telugu movie starting Siddhu Jonnalagadda , Neha Shetty , Prince Cecil , Bhramaji, directed by Vimal Krishna, is releasing today (12th Feb 2022)

Story Analysis:

When the trailer for 'DJ Tillu' was released earlier this month, youngsters among the audience made up their minds to watch the film ASAP. The dialogues seemed whacky, while Tillu's characterization seemed insane in a welcome way. Does the film live up to the expectations?

The answer is an unqualified yes. A lot of you might be told that the second half is slow and things like that. To cut to the chase, let it be said that perfect crime comedies are as rare as hyper-logical thrillers. We have to judge a crime comedy by two parameters in the absence of great films being made: Is the comedy enjoyable? Are the characters behaving consistently? On these two counts, 'DJ Tillu' is a winner.

Read Khiladi Movie Review

 Khiladi: Release Date, Trailer, Songs, Cast

Release Date

11 February 2022

Language

Telugu

Genre

Action, Crime, Thriller

Cast

Ravi Teja, Arjun Sarja, Unni Mukundan, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Dimple Hayathi, Nikitin Dheer

Director

Ramesh Varma

Writer

Ramesh Varma

Cinematography

Sujith Vaassudev, G.K.Vishnu

Music

Devi Sri Prasad

Producer

Satyanarayana Koneru, Ramesh Varma

Production

Pen Studios, A Studios

Certificate

16+

About Khiladi Movie Story (2022)

Mohan Gandhi (Ravi Teja) steals the money container. The police officer, Arjun Bharadwaj (Arjun Sarja) along with antagonists begin to search for the container. Mohan asks them to bid mote to own the container. In between all the high-octane action sequences and chase-game, Mohan romances his female lead, Meenakshi.          

                  

Good Luck Sakhi Movie Review

Good Luck Sakhi Movie Released today ( 28th Jan 2022 ) 

 Mahanati Keerthy Suresh, Aadhi Pinishetty starrer Movie Sakhi telugu movie Released today.Jagapathi Babu, Rahul Ramakrishna other cast, Directed by  Nagesh Kukunoor produced by Sudheer Chandra Padiri, Shravya Varma.

Devi Sri Prasad done music.

Story:

Sakhi (Keerthy Suresh), a daily wage worker at a small-scale turmeric powder industry, is seen as jinxed. She is referred to as ‘Bad Luck’ Sakhi as she is believed to bring bad luck to the people around her. Her childhood friend Goli Raju aka Ramarao (Aadhi Pinisetty), a drama artist, knows Sakhi’s shooting capabilities. He takes her to retired Colonel (Jagapathi Babu) who is looking to train a shooter. How Sakhi becomes a state champion and how she brings fame to her village is the crux of the story.

Bangarraju Movie Review

 Bangarraju telugu movie starting Akkineni Nagarjuna, Akkineni Chaitanya, Ramya Krishna, Kriti Shetty directed my Kalyan Krishna.

Bangarraju is a sequel to Soggade Chinni Nayana. 

Story: Chinna Bangarraju (Naga Chaitanya) has grown up without his parents in the care of his grandmother Satyabhama (Ramya Krishnan). His father Ram Mohan (Nagarjuna) leaves him under her care and returns to the US after the demise of his wife Seetha (Lavanya Tripathi) in child-birth. Despite hailing from a family that is tasked with looking after the local temple, he grows up sharing a difficult relationship with God due to losing his loved ones early in life. Instead of looking after the village, he passes time by playing card games and antagonising Naga Lakshmi (Krithi Shetty), who is the sarpanch’s (Rao Ramesh) daughter. Satyabhama enlists her husband Bangarraju’s (Nagarjuna) help to help their grandson settle down, but little do they know what they will be helping him from danger too.