Kannappa receives polarized reviews: Highs and Lows

The much-anticipated Telugu mythological drama “Kannappa,” directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh and starring Vishnu Manchu, has hit theaters on June 27, 2025, to a mixed reception from audiences and critics alike.

The film, which boasts a star-studded cast including Prabhas, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, and Kajal Aggarwal, has sparked varied reactions, with praise for its emotional climax and cameos but criticism for its pacing and technical execution.

Devotional story

The film follows the journey of Thinnadu (Vishnu Manchu), a tribal hunter and atheist who transforms into a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, inspired by the legend of the Sri Kalahasti temple.

The reviews highlight the second half, particularly the final 30-40 minutes, as the film’s strongest asset. Vishnu Manchu’s performance in the final act has been widely praised, while Prabhas’ 20-minute cameo as Rudra has been hailed as a game-changer, injecting energy and gravitas into the narrative. Mohanlal’s brief role as Kirata and Akshay Kumar’s appearance as Lord Shiva also garnered appreciation for their impactful presence.

Boring First half

However, the film struggles with a sluggish first half, criticized for its slow pacing, lack of emotional depth, and inconsistent visual effects. Some reviews labeled the first half as “torture” and the screenplay “dated,” with complaints about unnecessary action sequences and a lack of emotional connection early on.

The film’s technical aspects have also drawn mixed feedback. While Sheldon Chau’s cinematography was lauded for capturing New Zealand’s forested landscapes, the VFX received criticism for falling short of the film’s ambitious scope. Stephen Devassy’s background score was a standout, particularly in the second half, but some felt the dialogues lacked punch.

Polarized reviews, good openings

Despite the polarized reviews, Kannappa has generated buzz for its sincere attempt to retell a revered tale of devotion. The film took strong opening, many calling it Vishnu Manchu’s “biggest” yet, with theaters reportedly going houseful. The film’s lavish production values and star power are seen as assets, but many agree that tighter storytelling could have elevated it further.