Thandel movie review: Netizens hail Naga Chaitanya’s comeback in new movie

The much-anticipated romantic action thriller ‘Thandel,’ starring Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, has hit theatres and sparked mixed reactions from audiences. While many viewers have lauded the lead actors’ performances and the emotional depth of the film, criticism surrounding its storyline and pacing has also emerged.

Directed by Chandoo Mondeti, ‘Thandel’ follows the story of a fisherman from Srikakulam who is captured by Pakistani forces after straying into international waters. The film, which also features Sai Pallavi, Prakash Belawadi, and Shiva Alapati in key roles, has been released in Tamil and Hindi alongside its original Telugu version.

On social media, particularly Twitter, Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi’s performances have been widely praised, with fans highlighting their compelling portrayals. Music director Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) has also received a strong positive response, with many netizens applauding his soundtrack. 

One user wrote, "It’s simply a comeback film for @chay_akkineni. He delivered a very good performance in his career after Majili and YMC. It has decent first half followed by a good second half. Dsp is the soul for the movie."

Another user on X wrote, "YUVASAMRAT @chay_akkineni is the biggest asset of the film entertains throughout the film with his stunning chemistry and career BEST PERFORMANCE with @Sai_Pallavi9."

"Thandel Review 1st half: Chay & Pallavis chemistry is good in pieces but the pace could have been better. Storm sequence is executed well & brings some momentum. Sai Pallavi is a Superstar & her dancing is a treat, YET AGAIN. DSPs music is melodious & Chay as Thandel Raju is good," wrote another user.

An user praised Naga Chaitanya's performance and wrote, "Overall a super movie. A good film and a guaranteed BO blockbuster from #NagaChaitanya. After a long time NC performance is terrific and is definitely his career best acting #DeviSriPrasad Music is superb #ChandooMondeti did a good job"

There were also some mixed reviews about the newly released movie. One user wrote, "Dragged narration slows down the pace. Weak story writing. India-Pakistan episode fails to make an impact."

Another user commented. "VFX looks cheap. 1st half feels dragged and slow. Songs doesn't elevate the movie. Unnecessary and not conivincing heroism"