Explained - Will Kingdom break the prolonged shadow of Arjun Reddy for Vijay Deverakonda?

The Telugu film industry, viewer preferences, and Vijay's own filmography have all changed over time.

It’s been a long time since we heard Vijay Deverakonda be the same old guy on the stages at the events. Don’t we all miss his free and unbothered self which is very much loved by his fans.

However, many fans couldn't help but experience a wave of nostalgia when the trailer for his next movie, Kingdom, was released. Unavoidably, it brought up the question of how much Vijay Deverakonda has changed since his breakthrough role in Arjun Reddy.

The Telugu film industry, viewer preferences, and Vijay's own filmography have all changed over time. One thing, though, never changes: Arjun Reddy's enduring influence on his identity as an actor. Vijay's name is still inextricably linked to the role that made him famous, even after 11 films.

A self made actor

Vijay, a self-made actor from Telangana, immediately captured the hearts of viewers with his unvarnished charm and honesty. His early roles as Arjun Reddy and Pelli Choopulu portrayed him as the grounded, relatable boy next door.

However, public opinion changed as a result of Arjun Reddy's enormous success and controversy. His aggressive on-screen persona started to meld with his self-assured, frequently direct off-screen persona. He became a divisive figure almost immediately after making remarks like, "I would like to apologise to no faking body, because I don't give a fk," at a pre release event.

Criticised for roles similar to Arjun Reddy

Even after being a talented actor, Vijay was criticised for his work in Family Star, Kushi, World Famous Lover, Dear Comrade and others for being very similar to each other when it comes to his character in Arjun Reddy. He is always compared to Arjun Reddy and people haven’t forgotten him at all.

Unfortunately, actors are the ones to bear the scars and the consequences for the roles they play on the screen. But it is very evident that Vijay’s pain has been significant.

Trying to do new things

But what's frequently overlooked in this discussion is Vijay's openness to trying new things. His genre choices have been diverse, ranging from family entertainers like Kushi to supernatural thrillers like Taxiwaala and political dramas like NOTA. However, poor execution and timing have lessened their impact despite the range.

His voice and dialogue delivery are also often criticised. One of Arjun Reddy's best qualities, his gritty, rugged voice, has stayed constant throughout his roles, occasionally making it difficult to tell one character from another.

Reactions to his appearance as Arjuna in Kalki 2898 AD were divided; some praised his intensity, while others thought his vocal tone lacked the modulation that is expected in a mythological role.

It appears that Vijay has reconciled with his Arjun Reddy heritage. He acknowledged in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India recently that he used to strive to surpass the role, but now just wants to create stand-alone quality movies.

Since Arjun Reddy, he has been the target of constant trolling, with even irrelevant public remarks or interviews drawing criticism.

Following actress Pooja Hegde's recent remarks regarding organised trolling in the industry, some fans have resurfaced the theory that he is unfairly targeted and possibly the target of paid smear campaigns.

Can things change post Kingdom ?

All eyes are now on Kingdom, a movie that might change Vijay's course. Gowtam Tinnanuri has previously made Malli Raava and Jersey and both the films are super hits.

Kingdom stars Vijay as Soori, a spy involved in a complex undercover operation. The character development, tone, and imagery allude to a shift from his typical approach, implying a deliberate effort to break free from the Arjun Reddy mould.

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More significantly, it allows Vijay to remind viewers that, despite the scandals, trolling, and weight of previous roles, he is still an actor who can surprise us.

His most famous quote might be remembered this time as a daring start to the next phase of his career rather than as a throwback to the past.