Thammudu – A bulky action drama that fails to ignite
š¬ Thammudu ā Movie Review (Rating: ā ā Ā½ / 5)
1. Introduction
Thammudu, starring Nithiin, Sapthami Gowda, Laya, and Varsha Bollamma, is directed by Sriram Venu and produced by RajuāShirish under Sri Venkateswara Creations. Music is by B. Ajaneesh Loknath, with cinematography from K.V. Guhan, Sameer Reddy, and Setu. Prawin Pudi handles editing. The film hit theatres on July 4, 2025.
2. Plot
Jay (Nithiin), an expert archer, seeks to reconnect with his estranged sister Jhansi (Laya), now a sincere officer investigating a deadly factory mishap. When Jhansiās life is threatened by a corrupt industrialist (Saurabh Sachdeva), Jay rushes to her rescue amid a forest adventure with multiple twists and rescue missions.
3. Performance
Nithiin brings sincerity and physicality to the role, though his character lacks depth due to a weak script. Laya delivers a poised comeback performance but is under-utilised. Sapthami Gowda and Varsha Bollamma contribute earnest efforts, with Varsha notably engaging in action sequences. Saurabh Sachdeva shines as the unconventional villain early in the film.
4. Technical Aspects
Ajaneesh Loknathās background score provides fleeting engagement, but songs fail to leave a mark. Cinematography, while capturing forest settings adequately, is inconsistent in quality. The editing drags the pacing, and the screenplay and directionādespite Venuās previous successāfeel outdated and unfocused.
5. Highlights
The action choreography in the first half offers some pacing relief. Varsha Bollammaās character arc shines as a bright spot. Saurabh Sachdeva adds intrigue with his unique portrayal of the antagonist. The initial sibling bond and stunts inject occasional energy.
6. Drawbacks
The story is cliched and predictable; the second half becomes bogged down by repetitive, logic-defying action. Weak emotional depth limits audience connection, and key characters like Jay and Jhansi are underdeveloped. Inconsistent VFX and editing further weaken the impact.
7. Analysis
Thammudu has a promising premiseāa sibling drama grounded in social justice and survivalābut fails to deliver due to an uninspired screenplay, messy pacing, and genre confusion. While individual performances and a few action scenes have merit, the film lacks cohesion and emotional resonance.
8. Bottom Line
A well-intentioned but underwhelming attempt. Despite commendable individual efforts, Thammudu struggles to engage and leaves viewers disappointed. The flaws in storytelling and execution outweigh its fleeting highlights.
Final Verdict: ā
ā
Ā½ / 5
A bulky action drama that fails to igniteāsincere performances fall short against a patchy screenplay and sluggish narrative. Thammudu lacks the spark to stand out in Nithiinās career.
