Kannappa, the ambitious Telugu-language mythological drama directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, hit theaters on June 27, 2025, carrying the weight of high expectations. With a star-studded cast featuring Vishnu Manchu in the titular role, alongside cameos from Prabhas, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, and Kajal Aggarwal, the film promised a grand cinematic experience rooted in devotion to Lord Shiva. Inspired by the legend of Kannappa, a tribal hunter who transforms from an atheist to a devoted follower of Shiva, this film aims to blend mythology, action, and spiritual resonance. But does it live up to the hype? Here’s a detailed review.
The Story: A Journey of Faith and Sacrifice
Kannappa follows Thinnadu (Vishnu Manchu), a tribal youth from the Chenchu tribe in Andhra Pradesh, who begins as a skeptic, rebelling against traditional customs. The narrative, inspired by the history of the Sri Kalahasti temple, traces his transformation into one of Lord Shiva’s most devoted followers, culminating in the legendary act of offering his eyes to the deity. The story unfolds through the divine perspective of Lord Shiva (Akshay Kumar) and Goddess Parvati (Kajal Aggarwal), who observe Thinnadu’s journey. Along the way, he falls in love with a village girl (Preity Mukhundhan), faces tribal conflicts, and encounters mystical figures like Rudra (Prabhas) and Kirata (Mohanlal), who guide him toward his spiritual awakening.
The film’s core strength lies in its emotional and spiritual depth, particularly in the second half. The climax, spanning the final 30-40 minutes, is a standout, delivering a spine-chilling and emotionally overpowering experience that resonates deeply with audiences, especially devotees of Lord Shiva. Trade analyst Sumit Kadel likened its intensity to the climax of Kantara, noting its ability to leave viewers in tears.
Performances: Vishnu Manchu Shines, Cameos Steal the Show
Vishnu Manchu delivers a career-defining performance as Thinnadu/Kannappa, particularly in the climactic scenes. His portrayal of a warrior-turned-devotee is heartfelt, with the final 20 minutes showcasing his emotional range and commitment. Social media reactions, including from screenwriter Kona Venkat, praise Manchu’s intensity, predicting it will be remembered for years.
The supporting cast, including Mohan Babu as Mahadeva Shastri, R. Sarathkumar, and Madhoo, adds depth, but the cameos are the real crowd-pullers. Prabhas, as Rudra, commands the screen for a reported 15-20 minutes, elevating the film with his commanding presence and powerful dialogues. Mohanlal’s brief but impactful role as Kirata, especially around the interval, is a highlight, while Akshay Kumar and Kajal Aggarwal bring divine gravitas as Shiva and Parvati.
Strengths: Visual Grandeur and Emotional Core
Shot in stunning locations like Christchurch, New Zealand, Kannappa boasts grand visuals that enhance its mythological scale. The background music (BGM), composed by Stephen Devassy, is a major asset, amplifying the emotional weight of key scenes, particularly in the second half. Posts on X consistently highlight the BGM as the “heart of the movie.” The film’s devotion to Sanatan Dharma and its focus on Kannappa’s selfless faith strike a chord, making it a spiritual experience for many viewers. The action sequences, rooted in mythology, are thrilling, with one user describing them as “intense and powerful, like modern blockbusters.”
Weaknesses: Pacing and Technical Flaws
Despite its strengths, Kannappa is not without flaws. The first half suffers from a slow pace and a lack of narrative cohesion, which may test audience patience with its 3-hour-10-minute runtime. Some viewers on X noted “dead vibes” in the initial portions, with the love angle and certain action sequences feeling underwhelming. The visual effects (VFX) have received mixed reactions, with some praising their grandeur while others found them inconsistent or “flat.” The choice of New Zealand as a filming location has also sparked debate, with some feeling it doesn’t align with the film’s historical setting.
Audience Reception and Box Office Outlook
Early reviews from influencers and trade analysts are largely positive, with the climax earning widespread acclaim. Social media reactions range from calling it a “mythological entertainment package” to a “masterclass in handling cameos.” However, some netizens criticized the weak writing and outdated screenplay, with one user rating it a mere 1.5/5 for its “lifeless” execution. The film earned approximately Rs 1.06 crore net on its opening day across all languages, indicating a decent start but facing competition from Kajol’s Maa in the Hindi market. Vishnu Manchu’s decision to prioritize a 10-week theatrical run before an OTT release underscores the film’s ambition to captivate audiences on the big screen.
Verdict: A Devotional Epic Worth Watching
Kannappa is a mixed bag that soars in its second half, delivering a spiritually resonant and emotionally charged experience. While the slow first half and uneven VFX may detract from the overall impact, the powerful performances, stirring climax, and devotional core make it a compelling watch for Shiva devotees and fans of mythological dramas. With reasonable expectations, Kannappa offers a divine journey that’s best experienced on the big screen.
Rating: 3.25/5
Go for it if you’re a fan of epic mythology or the stellar cast, but be prepared for a lengthy ride with some bumps along the way.
