Mixed reviews for Kalyan Ram’s ‘Arjun Son of Vyjayanthi’

A day after Tamannaah Bhatia’s Odela 2 hit theatres, Kalyan Ram arrived with Arjun Son of Vyjayanthi. Released today, the film stars Nandamuri Kalyan Ram and Vijayashanthi and centers around a mother-son relationship.

Directed by Pradeep Chilukuri, the film has received mixed responses from audiences and social media. Critics have described it as an average outing that follows a familiar action-drama template. However, both critics and viewers have unanimously praised the film’s final moments and the emotional chemistry between Kalyan Ram and Vijayashanthi.

What’s the film about?

Kalyan Ram plays Arjun, a gangster who once aspired to become an IPS officer. However, after abandoning his training and turning to crime, he has a fallout with his mother, Vyjayanthi—played by Vijayashanthi—a retired police commissioner known for her exemplary service to society. Their relationship strains as mother and son go their separate ways. But when Vyjayanthi becomes the target of a powerful mafia gang, Arjun steps in, putting everything on the line to protect her.

Climax sequences stand out

While the narrative sticks closely to the formula of commercial Telugu cinema, the climax twist has come as a pleasant surprise. Despite its predictable storyline, the film is buoyed by strong performances—especially the emotional weight in the closing sequences.

Vijayashanthi, making a comeback after five years, plays a dual role as a mother and a police officer—a role that suits both her on-screen legacy and real-life persona. Her presence adds gravitas, making even routine scenes impactful. Kalyan Ram delivers a performance that is expected to resonate well with mass audiences.

No role for the heroine!

Saiee Manjrekar plays the female lead in Arjun S/O Vyjayanthi, but critics point out that her role is largely insignificant. Although she portrays Kalyan Ram’s wife, the character lacks depth and screen time. Reviewers have criticized the director for failing to write a meaningful role for her. She appears briefly in just two scenes in the first half, and makes only a single appearance in the second half.

With Arjun S/O Vyjayanthi, Saiee marks her fourth Telugu film, following Ghani, Major, and Skanda.

Underwhelming music

The music, composed by Ajaneesh Loknath of Kantara fame, falls short of expectations. Both the songs and the background score received lukewarm responses, failing to elevate the emotional beats of the film. On the other hand, director Pradeep Chilukuri earned appreciation for his handling of the emotionally charged climax.

Decent openings

Despite criticism over its screenplay and music, Arjun Son of Vyjayanthi has opened to decent box office numbers, particularly boosted by positive feedback from its USA premieres. While it may not break new ground, it is being recommended as a one-time watch for fans of action-packed, commercial cinema.