Hyderabad: The much-awaited ‘HIT 3’, the third instalment in the successful HIT universe, has finally released, and early reactions from audiences on X suggest that the film delivers a gripping ride, especially in its explosive second half. Directed by Dr. Sailesh Kolanu and featuring Nani in a never-seen-before avatar as cop Arjun Sarkaar, the film is already being lauded for its intense performances, screenplay, and background score.

The crime thriller, which also stars Srinidhi Shetty, has been trending online with fans praising its taut narrative and surprise cameos. Social media users have been quick to share their reactions, many calling it a “suspenseful, engaging thriller” with Nani’s performance being the biggest highlight.

“#Nani, this man can do any role,” wrote one user, adding that the second half was a “mental” ride, praising the direction of Sailesh Kolanu.

Another user chimed in with a list of positives: “Nani, The Final Act, Concept, Sailesh's Screenplay, Suspense , Investigation.”

Many are calling Nani’s portrayal of Arjun Sarkaar his best in recent times, with a user writing, “One word — EXCELLENT FILM. Nani Anna in a never-seen avatar with perfect punch dialogues. Second half dominates the first.”

Some users even highlighted the climactic performance of Adivi Sesh, who makes a cameo reprising his role from the second film, “Climax Shesh Anna dominate chesadu gaa,” said a fan.

Meanwhile, others praised the writing, the background score by Mickey J Meyer, and the commercial-thriller balance. “A pure Nani show. The blend of commercial and thriller has worked big time,” one post read.

However, not all feedback was glowing. A few viewers pointed out pacing issues and a predictable first half, with one user commenting, “Slow pace, predictable screenplay, zero investigative thrills… though Nani’s acting and BGM in the second half stand out.”

Produced by Prashanthi Tipirneni, the film follows the Homicide Intervention Team (HIT) as they tackle yet another dark and disturbing case. With cinematography by Sanu John Varghese and editing by Karthika Srinivas, HIT 3 continues the gritty storytelling that the franchise is known for.

Following the critical success of ‘HIT: The First Case’ (2020) and ‘HIT: The Second Case’ (2022), both of which were also produced by Nani, expectations were high — and if social media buzz is anything to go by, HIT 3 seems to be living up to the hype.