Sekhar Kammula’s highly anticipated crime drama “Kuberaa,” starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna, and Rashmika Mandanna, has hit the screens with an emphatic roar, garnering overwhelmingly positive reviews from fans and critics. Early reactions from audiences across social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), are hailing the film as a “fireworks” display of stellar performances, gripping storytelling, and impactful direction.
At the heart of the widespread acclaim is Dhanush’s “god-level” performance, with many calling it his career-best. Portraying a beggar who rises against the odds, Dhanush is said to have completely immersed himself in the character, delivering a raw and emotionally charged portrayal that has left audiences speechless. “Only a very few actors on earth can pull off what @dhanushkraja has pulled off! To convince with getup is one thing, convincing with a completely different getup with the same mannerism is just god level acting!” one fan raved on X. Another noted, “Dhanush is the soul of Kuberaa. He doesn’t just perform, he disappears into Deva, playing the role of a humble, innocent beggar with remarkable grace.”
Nagarjuna, in a nuanced and impactful role as a law enforcement officer, has also drawn significant praise for his understated yet powerful presence. His scenes with Dhanush are highlighted as emotionally engaging and a testament to their on-screen chemistry. “Nagarjuna killed his role effortlessly,” a netizen commented, while others noted his “classy performance” and “solid comeback.” Rashmika Mandanna, playing the central female character, has also been appreciated for her performance and her chemistry with Dhanush, which added a touch of lightness to the intense narrative.
Director Sekhar Kammula is being lauded for his masterful storytelling and his bold departure from conventional commercial formulas. Despite a runtime of over three hours, audiences have largely found the narrative gripping and engaging, praising Kammula for crafting a film that delves into themes of money, power, and ethics with quiet intensity. “Crafting a gripping 3-hour-10-minute narrative without relying on typical commercial formulas like forced comedy, item songs, or over-the-top heroism is a bold move, but director Kamula sir masterfully navigates this,” one review stated. The film’s unique concept, strong writing, and impactful social commentary have resonated deeply with viewers.
Devi Sri Prasad’s background score has also emerged as a major highlight, elevating the emotional depth of key scenes without overpowering the visuals. The cinematography by Niketh Bommireddy has received accolades for its stunning visuals and atmospheric quality, capturing the contrasting worlds within the film with artistic precision.
While the overwhelming sentiment is positive, a few viewers have pointed out that the film’s length could be a minor drawback, suggesting that some portions, particularly in the second half, could have been trimmed for a tighter pace. However, even those who found it slightly stretched acknowledged the emotional payoff and the overall impact of the movie.
“Kuberaa” is being hailed as one of the best films of 2025, with its strong performances, compelling narrative, and masterful direction setting it apart. As word-of-mouth spreads, the film is poised for a strong run at the box office, proving that content-driven cinema with stellar acting continues to be a winning formula. For those seeking an emotionally resonant and thought-provoking cinematic experience, “Kuberaa” is clearly a must-watch.