Kannappa stands as one of the most ambitious mythological dramas to grace Indian cinema in 2025, bringing together an extraordinary star cast that reads like a who’s who of the film industry. Directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, this action-drama-fantasy features Vishnu Manchu in the titular role, supported by legendary actors Mohanlal, Prabhas, and Akshay Kumar. The film narrates the legendary tale of an atheist hunter who transforms into one of Lord Shiva’s most devoted followers.
Released in theatres worldwide on 27 June 2025, the film took nearly a decade to materialize, representing Vishnu Manchu’s most expensive venture to date with a reported budget of Rs. 200 crores. The production has been helmed by Twenty Four Frames Factory and AVA Entertainment.
Plot and Storyline
The narrative centers around Kannappa, an atheist hunter living in the 2nd century, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters the divine presence of Lord Shiva. The story explores themes of valor and belief, showcasing how a non-believer’s heart can be transformed through divine intervention. The plot follows Kannappa’s journey from skepticism to unwavering faith, culminating in his legendary act of offering his own eyes to Lord Shiva.
The screenplay attempts to balance the mythological elements with human emotions, though it faces challenges in maintaining consistent pacing throughout its runtime. The story structure divides into two distinct halves, with the second portion proving more compelling than the first.
Cast Performances
Vishnu Manchu delivers what many consider his career-best performance as Kannappa. His portrayal brings authenticity to the character’s transformation from skeptic to devotee. I found his physical transformation and emotional range particularly impressive, especially in the film’s climactic sequences.
Prabhas makes a significant impact despite limited screen time. His presence brings strong energy to the second half, adding gravitas to the proceedings. Mohanlal and Akshay Kumar both contribute their seasoned acting prowess to the project, with all lead actors delivering good performances in the climax.
Direction and Technical Aspects
Mukesh Kumar Singh’s direction shows a clear divide between the two halves of the film. While his direction in the second half receives praise, I felt the first half was a letdown, with better care needed in establishing emotional connections early in the film. The production values are notably high, befitting the film’s substantial budget.
The film is described as visually grand with elaborate sets and costume design contributing to the visual grandeur. The VFX work, while ambitious, receives mixed reactions from audiences and critics.
What Works Well
The film’s strongest asset lies in its second half and climactic portions. Critics note that while the first half is passable, the second half works in parts, with the final act delivering the expected impact. The emotional resonance of Kannappa’s ultimate sacrifice is handled with appropriate gravity and reverence.
The devotional elements are treated with respect and authenticity, making it appealing to audiences seeking spiritual content. The film’s commitment to its source material and the reverent treatment of the mythological aspects work in its favor.
Areas for Improvement
The primary criticism centers around the film’s pacing issues, particularly in the first half. Despite aggressive promotion and the involvement of big names, the film suffers from a sluggish start. The initial portions struggle to engage viewers and establish emotional stakes effectively.
Several characters remain underdeveloped despite the film’s lengthy runtime, suggesting that the screenplay could have benefited from tighter character development. I noticed that the film’s attempt to accommodate multiple star appearances sometimes comes at the cost of narrative coherence.
Critical Reception and Ratings
The film has received mixed reviews from critics across platforms. GreatAndhra.com rated the film 2.5/5 stars, noting the sluggish start but acknowledging the divine finish. Bollywood Hungama gave it a 3.0/5 rating, praising its mythological appeal.
Cinema Express awarded it 2/5 stars, while IMDb users have rated it 4.3/10, showing a mixed response from general audiences. 123Telugu.com noted that despite a slow start, the film finds its rhythm later and ends with an emotionally satisfying climax.
Public Response
Audience reactions have been varied, with many praising the climax and star performances while acknowledging the film’s structural issues. Social media responses highlight appreciation for the devotional content and the visual spectacle. The film’s mythological subject matter has found favor with audiences seeking spiritual content, particularly in Telugu-speaking regions.
Final Verdict
Kannappa represents an ambitious attempt to bring a beloved mythological tale to the big screen with contemporary filmmaking techniques and star power. While it succeeds in delivering emotional impact in its latter portions and showcases commendable performances from its stellar cast, the film’s uneven pacing prevents it from achieving its full potential.
I believe the film remains a decent devotional drama for audiences seeking spiritual content, particularly those who appreciate the cultural significance of the Kannappa legend. Despite its flaws, the genuine attempt to honor the source material and the sincere performances make it a watchable experience for the target audience.
Rating: 3/5
