Bhairavam Movie Review (2025): Strong Story, Weak Narration

Bhairavam Movie Review

Movie: Bhairavam
Cast: Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Manchu Manoj, Nara Rohith, Aditi Shankar, Aanandi, Divya Pillai
Director: Vijay Kanakamedala
Music: Sricharan Pakala
Producer: KK Radhamohan
Release Date: May 30, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐½ (3.0/5)

Introduction

The highly awaited Telugu action drama Bhairavam, directed by Vijay Kanakamedala and featuring Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Manchu Manoj, and Nara Rohith, ultimately released in theaters on May 30, 2025. With a strong star cast and the support of Sri Satya Sai Arts, hopes were high. Does the movie deliver?

Here’s our detailed review.

Plot Summary

Bhairavam is shot in the rural setting of Devipatnam, East Godavari, where land politics and time-tested friendships propel the narrative.

Three childhood friends — Gajapathi (Manchu Manoj), Varada (Nara Rohith), and Sreenu (Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas) — have a bond that dates back to their childhood. Sreenu, an orphan boy, finds place in their group after a turning point occurs.

But trouble begins when a corrupt minister, aided by a scheming police officer, tries to snatch away the sacred temple lands owned by Gajapathi’s family. As manipulation and betrayal creep in, the once-unbreakable friendship begins to crack.

Will loyalty win over greed? That’s the emotional core of Bhairavam.

Performances

Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas shows maturity in his performance, especially during emotionally intense scenes. Though his character lacks depth in places, he gives it his best.
Manchu Manoj, as Gajapathi, is the most intense of the trio. His powerful screen presence, dialogue delivery, and aggression stand out in the second half.
Nara Rohith brings calmness and composure to his role. His performance is understated but impactful.
Aditi Shankar, making her Telugu debut, looks convincing as a village girl but doesn’t have much scope.
Aanandi and Divya Pillai have more meat in their roles, especially Aanandi, who impresses in limited screen time.
Sampath Raj and Sarath Lohithaswa do well in their supporting roles, while Vennela Kishore‘s comedy falls flat.

Technical Highlights

Department	Verdict
🎬 Direction	Engaging setup, but weak second half
🎵 Music/BGM	Average except for “O Vennela”
🎥 Cinematography	Rich visuals capturing rural life
✂️ Editing	Could have been sharper
🎭 Action Sequences	Well-executed and intense
🛕 Production Design	Strong devotional setting

Strengths

✅ Powerful base story about loyalty and betrayal
✅ Strong performances by the lead trio
✅ Emotionally heavy climax
✅ Well-shot action scenes
✅ Rich visual aesthetics and setting

Weaknesses

❌ Predictable plot with minimal twists
❌ Weak screenplay, especially in the second half
❌ Underdeveloped characters (especially female leads)
❌ Comedy track feels forced
❌ Songs lack impact

Bhairavam vs Garudan

As Bhairavam is a remake of the Tamil movie Garudan, comparisons are bound to be made. While Garudan was grounded and emotionally nuanced with a dash of comedy by Soori, Bhairavam chooses to be massy in its approach. Alas, it loses out on the subtlety and emotional depth that made Garudan work.

Taaza Wire Verdict: Watch It or Skip It?

Bhairavam is a mass action drama that works in parts. While it doesn’t completely hit the mark, it’s worth a watch for its solid performances and emotional climax. Just don’t expect a gripping narrative throughout.

🎬 Final Verdict: An average film with a strong heart but a shaky spine.
⭐ Rating: 3.0/5