The long-anticipated spy action thriller Kingdom, starring Vijay Deverakonda, finally released in theaters on July 31, 2025. Directed by Jersey fame Gowtam Tinnanuri, the film marks Deverakonda’s return to form after a series of underwhelming box office performances. Co-starring Satyadev, Bhagyashri Borse, and Koushik Mahata, Kingdom is already creating waves online—both for its strengths and shortcomings.
As fans rushed to theaters to catch the film on opening day, social media platform X (formerly Twitter) lit up with instant reactions. From glowing praise for Deverakonda’s performance and Anirudh Ravichander’s background score to critical takes on the second-half narrative, Kingdom has proven to be a polarizing watch.
Social Media Applauds Vijay Deverakonda’s Comeback Performance
One of the most consistent points of praise on X has been Vijay Deverakonda’s performance. Many fans have called it a “career-defining” role, with some even suggesting it marks his true return after flops like Liger, Kushi, and The Family Star. One user shared,
“Anirudh BGM – Goosebumps guaranteed! Vijay Deverakonda nailed it. Action scenes – super intense! 1st half – complete blockbuster vibes.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his emotional range and commanding screen presence in the role of ‘Suri’, a police constable on a dangerous mission in Sri Lanka. The high-octane action sequences, particularly the jail fight and the much-talked-about boat scene, also received applause.
Anirudh Ravichander’s background score played a crucial role in enhancing the emotional gravity of the film. At a pre-release event, Anirudh declared Kingdom a “milestone film” for everyone involved. Fans seem to agree, with many calling the music “goosebumps-inducing” and “cinematic magic.”
Critics Point to a Predictable Plot and Weak Second Half
Despite the applause, Kingdom hasn’t been universally loved. A segment of viewers expressed disappointment, especially with the film’s second half. While the first half has been described as gripping and energetic, several users complained about a slow narrative in the latter part.
One user commented,
“The hype lived up to my expectations until I watched the film. It wasn’t outright bad, but I expected more. VD was good. Satya Dev was sufficient.”
Others labeled the film as “very ordinary” and “nothing new,” criticizing its reliance on genre clichés and lack of emotional connect in key scenes. Some also felt the story was too linear and didn’t make the most of its political and espionage themes.
Still, most agreed that Deverakonda and Anirudh were the film’s strongest pillars—even among those who found the plot underwhelming.
Kingdom’s Technical Strengths Shine Through Amidst Criticism
Regardless of the mixed narrative reactions, Kingdom has been praised for its high production values, stylish cinematography, and gripping score. Directed by Gowtam Tinnanuri and produced under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Creations, the film’s scale and ambition were evident throughout.
Deverakonda’s portrayal of Suri’s emotional journey—caught between duty, betrayal, and personal loss—has added depth to the film, even if the screenplay didn’t always match up. The jail fight, the second-half boat sequence, and the climax have been repeatedly mentioned as visual standouts.
Box office projections suggest a strong opening, with estimates indicating a Rs. 18–20 crore haul on Day 1—making it Vijay Deverakonda’s biggest opening yet.
Final Verdict: A Comeback with Caveats
While Kingdom may not be a perfect film, it is undoubtedly an important one for Vijay Deverakonda. It showcases his strengths as a leading man and offers enough spectacle to satisfy fans of action thrillers. Anirudh’s musical genius and the film’s sleek technical presentation elevate the experience, even when the story falters.
As one user aptly summed up:
“#Kingdom Review – 3.5/5 An epic ride! Vijay Deverakonda stuns with sheer screen presence. Anirudh’s BGM is a game-changer. Gowtam’s direction & @vamsi84’s production shine throughout.”
Love it or hate it, Kingdom is a conversation starter—and that might be exactly what Deverakonda needed.
