Kingdom Movie First Review: Vijay Deverakonda’s Explosive Comeback

Film: Kingdom
Release Date: July 31, 2025
Director: Gowtam Tinnanuri
Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Bhagyashri Borse, Satyadev Kancharana, Venkitesh V.P., Ronit Kamra
Music: Anirudh Ravichander
Producers: Naga Vamsi, Sai Soujanya
Production: Sithara Entertainments, Fortune Four Cinemas
Genre: Spy Action Thriller
Rating: 4.5/5 (Based on early reactions)

Overview

“Kingdom,” the highly anticipated Telugu spy action thriller directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri, hit theaters on July 31, 2025, with Vijay Deverakonda in the lead role as Constable Surya, also known as ‘Suri.’ This film marks the first installment of a planned duology, blending high-octane action, emotional depth, and themes of family, betrayal, and redemption. With a stellar cast, gripping narrative, and Anirudh Ravichander’s electrifying score, “Kingdom” has generated significant buzz, especially after its US premiere shows. Early reviews suggest that Vijay Deverakonda has delivered a career-defining performance, making this a potential blockbuster and a strong comeback after recent box-office setbacks.

Plot and Themes

“Kingdom” unfolds as a visually intense and emotionally charged spy thriller. Vijay Deverakonda plays Suri, a constable who goes undercover to infiltrate a criminal gang led by his estranged brother, Siva, portrayed by Satyadev Kancharana. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of war, sacrifice, and leadership, with Suri’s journey oscillating between his duty as a law enforcer and his personal ties to his family. The teaser hints at a blood-soaked battlefield, with themes of reincarnation and legacy adding depth to the story. The first half is described as a “slow poison,” building emotional stakes gradually, while the second half explodes with action-packed sequences, making it a rollercoaster of emotions and thrills.

Performances

Vijay Deverakonda shines as Suri, delivering what fans and critics are calling his “peak performance.” His rugged avatar, complete with cropped hair and a beard, complements the intensity of his role. From delivering fiery speeches to portraying emotionally vulnerable moments, Vijay sets the screen ablaze, proving his versatility. Bhagyashri Borse, as the female lead, brings charm and substance, holding her own alongside Vijay. Satyadev Kancharana’s portrayal of Siva is nuanced, adding layers to the brotherly conflict. Child actor Ronit Kamra, playing the younger Suri, and Kothala Bhanu Prakash as young Siva, contribute significantly to the emotional core. Supporting performances by Venkitesh V.P. as Murugan and others enhance the ensemble.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Gowtam Tinnanuri, known for Jersey, showcases his storytelling prowess with a nuanced and elevated directorial approach. Critics have praised his ability to balance action with emotional depth, creating a politically intense and technically superior film. The cinematography by Jomon T. John and Girish Gangadharan captures breathtaking visuals, from war-torn battlefields to intimate character moments. Naveen Nooli’s editing ensures a tight narrative, while Anirudh Ravichander’s background score is a standout, described as “mind-blowing” and a perfect complement to the film’s high-stakes drama. The production design by Avinash Kolla adds grandeur, making “Kingdom” a visually rich experience.

Music and Soundtrack

Anirudh Ravichander’s score is one of the film’s strongest assets. The title teaser theme, “Kingdom Teaser OST,” released on March 17, 2025, and the first single, “Hridayam Lopala,” released on May 2, 2025, have already garnered massive praise. Anirudh’s background music elevates the emotional and action sequences, with fans noting its “electrifying” impact. At a pre-release event, Anirudh called “Kingdom” a “milestone film,” reflecting the passion poured into the project.

Early Reactions

Early reviews from US premiere shows and censor board members have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans on social media platform X have hailed the film, with one user stating, “First half reviews from USA are super, couldn’t be happier for @TheDeverakonda ❤️‍🔥🔥 #Kingdom.” Another fan remarked, “Peak Performance Of King 👑 @TheDeverakonda and mind-blowing BGM @anirudhofficial.” Noted critic Kuldeep Gadhvi gave the film 4.5 stars, calling it “a revolution on screen” and praising Vijay’s fiery comeback and Gowtam’s masterful direction. Sandeep Reddy Vanga, after watching 50 minutes of the film, declared it a “super hit,” noting its engaging narrative. The censor board also expressed satisfaction, boosting the film unit’s confidence.

Box Office Buzz

“Kingdom” has created history as the first Telugu film to be screened at London’s iconic Leicester Square, per Sithara Entertainments. Advance bookings indicate strong demand, with over 1,00,000 tickets sold within 24 hours, reflecting the film’s red-hot buzz. Trade analysts predict an opening above the 15-crore range, potentially challenging the top Tollywood openers of 2025. The film’s pre-release business, including a lucrative OTT deal, further underscores its commercial promise. However, the absence of a Hindi theatrical release (with the Hindi version, Saamraajya, possibly heading to Netflix) has sparked some discussion, attributed to logistical challenges with multiplex chains and OTT release rules.

Highlights

• Vijay’s Comeback: After disappointments like Liger and The Family Star, Vijay Deverakonda delivers a powerful performance, reasserting his star power.
• Anirudh’s Score: The music and background score elevate the film’s intensity, earning unanimous praise.
• Visual Grandeur: Stunning cinematography and production design create an immersive experience.
• Emotional Depth: The layered narrative, focusing on family and betrayal, resonates with audiences.
• Pan-India Appeal: Voice-overs by Jr NTR (Telugu), Suriya (Tamil), and Ranbir Kapoor (Hindi) amplify the film’s reach.

Drawbacks

While early reviews are largely positive, some critics note that “Kingdom” treads familiar territory for pan-India action dramas, raising questions about its ability to stand out. The slow build in the first half may test the patience of viewers seeking non-stop action. Additionally, the lack of a Hindi theatrical release may limit its box-office potential in North India.

Verdict

“Kingdom” is a cinematic storm, blending raw action, emotional depth, and technical brilliance. Vijay Deverakonda’s fiery performance, coupled with Gowtam Tinnanuri’s visionary direction and Anirudh Ravichander’s pulsating score, makes this a must-watch. While it may not reinvent the genre, it delivers a power-packed experience that marks a triumphant return for Vijay. Fans and critics alike are calling it a “blockbuster” and a “milestone film,” setting the stage for an exciting duology. If you’re looking for a high-stakes spy thriller with heart, “Kingdom” is worth the ticket.

Recommendation: Book your tickets now for a thrilling ride! Catch Vijay Deverakonda in his element at a theater near you.

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