Varavu, the latest Malayalam action thriller directed by Shaji Kailas, hit theatres on July 16.

Headlined by Joju George, the film also stars Murali Gopy, Arjun Ashokan, Vani Viswanath, Baburaj, Baiju Santhosh, Vincy Aloshious and Saniya Iyappan in pivotal roles.

Built around a revenge-driven narrative, the film follows a man who returns to settle old scores, uncovering long-buried secrets and confronting powerful adversaries along the way. The film earned around ₹51 lakh (India gross) on its opening day.

Now, social media platform X has begun weighing in on the film, and the verdict appears to be mixed.

Several viewers praised Joju George for carrying the film with his commanding screen presence, calling his performance intense and perfectly suited to the mass action genre.

Shaji Kailas' trademark style, violent action sequences, stylish visuals and the climactic set piece also found appreciation among a section of the audience.

One user described Varavu as a ‘watchable entertainer’ despite its template revenge plot, adding that Joju George delivers the required intensity while Shaji Kailas offers familiar mass moments.

Another reviewer felt the film featured ‘signature making’ from the veteran filmmaker, complimenting its visual language, action choreography and Joju's swagger, although they noted that the revenge story lacked emotional depth and stronger twists.

However, criticism outweighed the praise for many viewers. Several posts labelled Varavu a ‘bland revenge thriller’, saying Shaji Kailas revisits his old filmmaking formula without offering anything fresh.

Others called it a "4K rehash of an outdated action formula" and even advised audiences to skip the film altogether.

Many reviewers felt the screenplay relied too heavily on clichés, with predictable twists and a weak narrative failing to sustain interest.

One detailed review said the film appeared to draw inspiration from recent action dramas but lacked the emotional intensity and gripping storytelling needed to leave an impact.

The twist involving Arjun Ashokan's character, intended to be a major turning point, was singled out as one of the film's weakest aspects.

Overall, early reactions suggest that Varavu works best for viewers looking for old-school mass action and Joju George's screen presence. Those expecting a fresh, emotionally engaging revenge thriller, however, may come away disappointed.