Movie Name : Bhadrakaali
Release Date : Sep 19, 2025
123telugu.com Rating : 2.75/5
Starring : Vijay Antony, Vaagai Chandrasekar, Sunil Kripalani, Cell Murugan, Trupthi Ravindra, Kiran, Rini Bot, Riya Jithu and Master Keshav and Others
Director : Arun Prabu
Producer : Vijay Antony
Music Director : Vijay Antony
Cinematographer : Shelley Calist
Editor : Raymond Derrick Crasta
Related Links : Trailer
Bhadrakaali is the Telugu-dubbed version of the Tamil political thriller Shakthi Thirumagan. Marking Vijay Antony’s 25th film as an actor, it has hit the Telugu screens today. Here’s our review to see how it fares.
Story
Kittu (Vijay Antony) is a mediator in the Secretariat who can elevate a beggar to riches or demote an SI to constable. Even high-ranking officials depend on him, but every favour comes at a price. His empire crumbles when he crosses paths with political strategist Abhyankar Shankar (Sunil Kriplani), poised to become President of India. A staggering Rs. 6,236 crore scam linked to Kittu shocks the nation. Who is this man? Why does someone once trusted by many become their adversary? Is he truly corrupt, or does he have a hidden agenda? The film unpacks these questions.
Plus Points:
The opening sequences establish Kittu’s world effectively, showcasing his clout and influence in a gripping manner. Arun Prabhu sets up the premise intriguingly, raising doubts and curiosity through sharp dialogues. The pace stays brisk across both halves, with new layers unfolding steadily to hold attention.
Vijay Antony delivers with restraint, fitting the gravity of his role. His aide Maruthi (Cell Murugan) provides lighter shades that balance the seriousness. Sunil Kriplani shines as the shrewd lobbyist Abhyankar Shankar – his calm menace and brief confrontations with Vijay Antony heighten the drama. Supporting actors handle their parts effectively within limited scope.
Several sequences leave an impression, such as the old man explaining politics to a child, the scam revelation, and Kittu’s early establishment scenes. Crisp editing ensures these moments register well.
Minus Points:
Despite a compelling foundation, the film has drawbacks. The unbroken seriousness leaves no scope for lighter relief or mainstream appeal. The plot demands close attention, and missing small details can cause confusion.
The interval in particular doesn’t land with the intended punch. The special officer Ram Pandey is a well-written character but suffers from weak casting, reducing its weight.
Tripti Ravindra’s role is underdeveloped, while an excess of secondary characters crowds the narrative.
Technical Aspects:
Arun Prabhu presents a thought-heavy political tale reminiscent of Shankar’s style. While engaging for the most part, sharper treatment in key areas would have amplified the impact. Shelley R. Calist’s cinematography is serviceable, capturing the tone without standing out. Raymond Derrick Crasta Dinsa’s editing adds intensity, and Vijay Antony’s score sustains tension well. Production standards are respectable.
Verdict:
On the whole, Bhadrakaali is a political revenge drama with a few thrilling moments. Vijay Antony’s performance and some scenes stand out, but underdeveloped sequences, too many characters, and uneven execution prevent it from fully engaging. Fans of political dramas may enjoy parts of it, while others should keep expectations in check.
123telugu.com Rating: 2.75/5
Reviewed by 123telugu Team