Rating: 3/5
Genre: Action, Spy Thriller
Director: Gowtam Tinnanuri
Starring: Vijay Deverakonda, Satyadev, Bhagyashri Borse
Release Date: July 31, 2025
Runtime: 145 minutes
Story:
Kingdom follows Soori (Vijay Deverakonda), a police constable turned undercover agent, on a mission in the 1990s to infiltrate a Sri Lankan smuggling cartel and find his missing brother Shiva (Satyadev). Rooted in a tribal migration tale from the 1920s, the narrative blends high-octane action with emotional family drama, setting the stage for a planned sequel.
Strengths:
Vijay Deverakonda delivers a restrained yet intense performance, showcasing his range. Satyadev adds depth to Shiva, while the film’s technical aspects—stunning visuals by Girish Gangadharan and Jomon T. John, and Anirudh Ravichander’s evocative score—elevate the action sequences. The unique tribal backdrop stands out.
Direction & Cinematography:
Gowtam Tinnanuri crafts an ambitious narrative, though adequate pacing in the first half. The cinematography captures the Sri Lankan locales beautifully, but the climax feels rushed, weakening the emotional payoff.
Verdict:
Kingdom is a visually rich action drama with a compelling premise, bolstered by Vijay’s performance. However, its uneven pacing and underdeveloped emotional core limit its impact. Ideal for theater viewing for the exceptional cinematography.