Kingdom movie review: Vijay Deverakonda impresses in this story, which has flat writing

Vijay Deverakonda as Suri in Kingdom

Vijay Deverakonda is back on the big screens with the much-awaited movie Kingdom after a long time, and expectations for this film have been high right since the day it was announced. After back-to-back disasters, bagging a hit at the box office is crucial for Vijay.

Kingdom, Vijay Deverakonda's most recent film, which is directed by Jersey star Gowtam Tinnanuri, combines action and emotional drama, but it lacks a strong narrative and struggles to establish itself.

Plot Synopsis

The narrative centers on Soori (played by Vijay Deverakonda), a modest police constable who is unintentionally dragged into a dangerous spy operation. His journey is intimately linked to his estranged brother Siva (Satyadev), and the film mostly centers on their reunion and the risks involved.

Performances

Vijay Deverakonda portrays Suri with authenticity and restraint, delivering a grounded and organic performance. Even when the script doesn't always support it, his performance gives the scene more emotional weight. As Siva, Satyadev excels, giving a powerful and emotionally stirring performance that accentuates the movie's central theme of brotherhood. But as the female lead, Bhagyashri Borse plays a small, shallow role that has little effect.

Analysis

The first half is slow and uninteresting, despite Gowtam Tinnanuri's efforts to create a multi-layered, emotional story with a spy thriller setting. Despite an intriguing beginning set in the British era, the movie quickly settles into a languid, melancholy plot devoid of dramatic moments or emotional highs. Key scenes, such as their reunion in jail, feel hurried and emotionally flat, and the film's central brotherly bond—which is supposed to be its emotional core—is never fully explored.

Also Read: Kingdom Worldwide Box Office Collection: Vijay Deverakonda's action thriller opens in US theatres with over $650,000 (Rs 5.42 Cr) gross

The antagonist arc, set in Sri Lanka, reduces Venkitesh's villainous character to a cliché. Even though the emotional engagement in the second half slightly improves, it still lacks the impact that one would anticipate from a major action drama. However, the well-executed and visually striking climax provides some redemption.

Technical and supporting cast aspects

Although the supporting cast gives excellent performances, their lackluster character development makes none of them stand out. Despite excellent acting, Venkitesh's villain role doesn't stick in your memory.

The film's music and images are its technical highlights. Cinematographers Jomon and Girish produce rich frames, while Anirudh's background music elevates the mood. Even though his work complements the film's aesthetics, the drab action scenes prevent it from having enough opportunity to shine. Naveen Nooli's editing, especially in the first half, could have been more precise.

Production values

Sithara Entertainments, Fortune Four Cinemas, and Srikara Studios support Kingdom's excellent production design. Even when the storyline falters, the film's visuals continue to be one of its strongest points.

Verdict

Kingdom is a visually stunning movie with heartfelt performances, especially from Vijay Deverakonda and Satyadev, but it falls short of its full potential due to its uninspired storytelling, clichéd writing, and emotionally flat narration.

Cast: Vijay Deverakonda, Bhagyashri Borse, Satyadev
Director: Gowtam Tinnanuri
Producer: Naga Vamsi's Sitara Entertainments
Music: Anirudh Ravichander Rating: 2.5/5