Title: “Robinhood” Movie Review: A Missed Opportunity in Telugu Cinema That Fails to Steal the Show

Introduction: Style Without Substance

Robinhood (2025), directed by Venky Kudumula and starring Nithiin and Sreeleela, starts off with promise—a visually stylish action-comedy that teases a superhero-esque vigilante thrill ride. But what begins with energy and playfulness quickly loses steam, crumbling under its inconsistent tone, weak writing, and squandered talent. Rating: ★½ (1.5/5)

An Exciting Start That Quickly Loses Direction

The film kicks off with flair—Nithiin’s character Ram leaps across a cityscape, and the movie title elegantly blends into the scene. It’s a rare moment of cinematic ingenuity that raises expectations. Early chase scenes and rooftop action sequences build momentum, and Shine Tom Chacko makes a strong first impression as a no-nonsense cop.

But the tension fizzles fast. Characters who begin with promise—like Shine Tom’s officer or the film’s primary antagonists—are soon reduced to unconvincing caricatures. What could’ve been a gripping cat-and-mouse chase turns into an aimless ride.

Second Half Syndrome: Lost in the Hills (and Plot)

After a somewhat engaging first half, the film crashes in the second. The story moves from sleek urban settings to a hilly village, completely derailing the pace and tone. Ram’s vigilante persona becomes inconsistent, and Neera’s (Sreeleela) presence turns more puzzling than pivotal.

The film tries to juggle action, comedy, romance, and social commentary, but ends up doing justice to none. The plot meanders, the stakes never feel urgent, and the film struggles to decide what it wants to be.

Performances: Bright Sparks in a Dull Frame

• Nithiin disappoints in the titular role. Despite being the film’s core, his performance lacks the charisma and energy needed to carry such a character-driven narrative.

• Sreeleela gets significant screen time but is given a painfully underwritten character. Even worse, her talents—especially her dance skills—are shockingly underutilized.

• Vennela Kishore and Rajendra Prasad are the saving grace. Their comedic timing and chemistry breathe life into an otherwise sluggish film. Kishore’s quirky assistant “Jyothi” and Prasad’s “Jon Snow” deliver the film’s only genuine laughs.

Technical Aspects: Stylish but Shallow

• Some visual flair (e.g., bullet-time effects, creative title integration) adds superficial appeal.

• A cameo by David Warner is thrown in for novelty but adds little value.

• The music and item numbers feel like forced fillers, with no memorable choreography or emotional connect.

Final Verdict: 1.5/5 ⭐ – All Flash, No Fire

Robinhood (2025) is a frustrating case of wasted potential. What could have been a slick vigilante entertainer ends up as a muddled, overstretched drama with weak characters and no emotional payoff. Outside of Vennela Kishore’s comedy, there’s little reason to sit through this film.

Fans of Nithiin or Sreeleela might still show up, but even they may walk out disappointed.

Cast & Crew:

• Director: Venky Kudumula

• Cast: Nithiin, Sreeleela, Rajendra Prasad, Vennela Kishore, Shine Tom Chacko, Devadatta Naga

• Genre: Telugu Action-Comedy

• Rating: ★½ (1.5/5)