Dulquer Salmaan's ‘I'm Game’ hit theatres on 3 September 2026, and if early buzz is anything to go by, the gamble may be paying off.

Its trailer drew mixed reactions online many Reddit users called it ‘mid’ and predicted a flop, pointing to underwhelming English pronunciation, set-bound visuals, and comparisons to recent Malayalam disappointments.

Some even speculated it could become another commercial misfire in a year already crowded with big-ticket releases. Skepticism ran high going into release day, with expectations largely muted.

But first-half reactions from X (formerly Twitter) tell a different story. Viewers have praised the film's visuals, ‘peak’ BGM by Jakes Bejoy, and Dulquer's performance, with several calling it a strong start and hinting at a surprise cameo.

Reviewers noted the film changes from a slower opening into a highly entertaining stretch, though some flagged a lack of emotional connection.

The consensus so far, the second half will decide the final verdict, but the mood among early viewers has clearly moved from doubt to excitement.

This isn't Dulquer's first high-stakes swing. He's built a career on unconventional bets that often pay off, ‘Lucky Baskhar’ (2024) grossed ₹111 crore, ‘Sita Ramam’ (2022) became a pan-India critical and commercial success, ‘Kurup’ (2021) crossed ₹78 crore worldwide, and ‘Bangalore Days’ (2014) remains a beloved blockbuster more than a decade later.

His track record shows he thrives when he takes creative risks than playing it safe.

So which will it be, total distraction or DQ's next win? Given the sharp disconnect between trailer skepticism and glowing first-half reactions, ‘I'm Game’ may be one of those films you shouldn't judge by its cover.

Directed by Nahas Hidhayath (of RDX fame) and produced by Dulquer Salmaan himself under Wayfarer Films, the ₹80 crore action-thriller follows a fearless gambler whose life spirals into chaos after a series of unexpected events, packed with action, romance, and fantasy elements.

‘I’m Game’ also marks a milestone for Salmaan, having reportedly been developed under the working title DQ40, referencing his 40th film as a lead actor.

Originally slated for 20 August 2026, it was postponed due to unfinished post-production, pushing it into a clash-free window.