Ram Charan’s ‘Peddi’ first reviews out: Strong performances, mixed execution and emotional payoff

Ram Charan’s latest film Peddi has finally hit theatres, and early audience reactions flooding social media platform X suggest a mixed but emotionally resonant response. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the sports drama marks Ram Charan’s return to the big screen after the underwhelming performance of Game Changer, and features an ensemble cast including Janhvi Kapoor, Shiva Rajkumar, Jagapathi Babu, Boman Irani, and Divyenndu.

While expectations were high given Ram Charan’s post-RRR stardom, initial reactions indicate that Peddi struggles with consistency but manages to land an emotional impact in its later portions.

Several viewers pointed out that the film’s pacing in the first half feels uneven and slow. One user noted that while the movie “had everything except clarity,” including a strong premise and impactful dialogues, it often fails to make the audience experience the protagonist’s journey. The transformation arc, according to the reaction, is “wrapped up in a song,” which reduces its emotional weight.

However, the narrative reportedly picks up momentum in the second half. One viewer described the latter portion as “emotional” and engaging, adding that unexpected sports turns help lift the storytelling. Another early review called it “a one-time watch,” highlighting that the film improves significantly as it progresses.

A section of viewers have praised Peddi for its emotional depth and inspirational tone. One reaction described the film as a story of a man who goes “to any extent to bring identity and recognition to his village and its people,” adding that the final portions were moving enough to evoke strong emotions.

Ram Charan’s performance has been widely appreciated, with some users suggesting awards-worthy potential. The film’s music and background score by A.R. Rahman have also been repeatedly highlighted, especially during elevation sequences. Technical aspects such as the score and certain set pieces received praise, with one viewer calling the background music “absolutely top-notch.”

Despite the positives, criticism has emerged around execution. Some viewers felt the direction appeared outdated in parts, while visual effects and cinematography were described as inconsistent. One reaction bluntly stated that the VFX “does not look natural,” pointing to a lack of polish in certain sequences.

Janhvi Kapoor’s character has also received mixed to negative feedback, with some users feeling it does not add significant strength to the narrative. However, supporting performances from Jagapathi Babu and others were seen as positives.

On the whole, Peddi is being described as an emotionally driven sports drama that may not be flawless in execution but delivers impact through its second-half storytelling and performances. While the first half has divided opinions, many agree that the film finds its strength in its emotional core and inspirational message.

With strong advance bookings reportedly crossing 3 lakh tickets across languages and early worldwide pre-sales exceeding ₹12 crore, Peddi has opened with considerable audience interest despite mixed word-of-mouth.