Kingdom Movie Review: Vijay's Comeback

After a string of experimental roles and lukewarm hits, Vijay Deverakonda is back in action—literally—with Kingdom (2025), a high-octane Telugu spy thriller directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri. From the first frame to the last punch, this film promises intensity, emotion, and a little something for everyone. But does it actually deliver? Let’s dive into a review that avoids spoilers and gives you the real picture.

Set in a politically charged fictional timeline, Kingdom follows a rogue intelligence agent (played by Vijay) on a mission to stop a massive national threat. What begins as a routine operation soon unravels into a deeper game of betrayal, power, and sacrifice. The storytelling is fast-paced in the first half, drawing you in with sharply written scenes and emotionally grounded dialogues. You can feel the tension without ever losing track of the plot—a rarity in most action-heavy Indian films.

But what really stands out here is Vijay Deverakonda’s performance. There’s a certain weight in his silences and rawness in his aggression. His character isn’t the loud-mouthed hero who saves the day with just punches and punchlines—this one bleeds, doubts, and still rises. Kingdom feels like a tailored comeback vehicle for him, and boy, does he run with it!

Adding to the atmosphere is Anirudh Ravichander’s electrifying music, which heightens the tension in the action scenes and brings heart to the emotional ones. Whether it's a pulsating background score or the patriotic anthem that hits just before the climax—Anirudh doesn’t miss.

Visually, Kingdom shines. Cinematographer Girish Gangadharan uses lighting, shadows, and drone shots to make even the most basic scenes feel cinematic. The action choreography is tight and realistic—no flying kicks or cartoonish villains here. Just good old grounded combat that actually makes you flinch a little.

However, the second half doesn’t quite keep the promise of the first. The narrative takes a few convenient turns, and while the emotional core remains intact, the storytelling stumbles slightly under the weight of predictability. Some viewers might find the plot twists a bit safe—especially for a film that starts out so daring.

Still, Kingdom redeems itself with a strong finish, a couple of goosebump-worthy dialogues, and a heartfelt final act. By the time the credits roll, you're not just clapping for the hero—you’re cheering for a filmmaker who tried to balance spectacle with soul.

If you’re looking for a action film, Kingdom may surprise you with how grounded and thoughtful it actually is. And if you’re a Vijay Deverakonda fan? This might just be the performance you’ve been waiting for since Arjun Reddy. With its gripping first half, powerful music, and a lead actor in top form, Kingdom is worth your time—even if the second half asks for a bit more patience.