OG Movie Review: Pawan Kalyan’s Gangster Drama Balances Swag, Action and Mixed Storytelling

The much-anticipated OG movie directed by Sujeeth has finally hit theaters, drawing both massive fanfare and heated debate. With Pawan Kalyan leading the charge as Ojas Gambheera, better known as “OG,” and Emraan Hashmi making his Telugu debut, the film attempts to blend mass entertainment with a gritty gangster narrative. But does it truly live up to the enormous hype? This og movie review explores the highs, lows, and everything in between.

The Story and Premise of OG

They Call Him OG introduces audiences to a protagonist who returns to Bombay after a decade, determined to reclaim lost ground and face an old ally turned rival, Omi Bhau. The film dives into themes of betrayal, underworld politics, and blood-soaked conflicts tied to ports, shipments, and power.

Key details about the production include:

The movie received an A-certificate from the censor board for its intense violence and use of strong language, further building anticipation among fans eager for an edgy experience.

Box Office Buzz and Audience Reactions

From the moment bookings opened, the og movie set the trade circles on fire. Reports suggested advance bookings alone crossed ₹93 crore, with first-day projections aiming for over ₹150 crore globally.

However, the path was not without hurdles. Overseas screenings faced delays and cancellations, while in Telangana, a High Court halted an order permitting higher ticket rates. Despite these challenges, fans thronged cinemas, and social media quickly turned into a battleground of praise and criticism.

Celebrity endorsements, including Tollywood star Nani labeling the film a “blockbuster,” only fueled the buzz further.

Strengths Highlighted in the OG Review

Critics and fans alike point to several aspects that work in favor of the film:

• Stylish action sequences that set the tone within the first 30 minutes

• Elevation scenes crafted to maximize Pawan Kalyan’s mass appeal

• Strong visual storytelling with South Bombay backdrops

• Thaman’s pulsating background score that heightens dramatic moments

• Fan-centric design that keeps the star’s aura at the forefront

The film thrives on style, swag, and spectacle, which makes it a treat for loyal fans of the actor.

Weaknesses That Hold the Film Back

While the og review acknowledges its strengths, critics have also highlighted several drawbacks:

• Familiar gangster tropes with little innovation

• Predictable narrative arcs that reduce surprise elements

• A noticeable dip in pace after the interval

• Supporting characters, including the antagonist, lacking depth

• Overextended emotional sequences that fail to resonate

• Visual and dubbing inconsistencies distracting from immersion

Several reviews, including those from leading portals, suggest the movie leans more on hype and less on substance, making it an uneven experience for viewers who expect depth in storytelling.

Mixed Critic Ratings for OG Movie

Reception from critics has been varied, with reviews ranging from average to slightly above average. Below is a summary of how major outlets rated the film:

Audience reactions on Reddit and X mirrored this divide, with some praising the film as a mass entertainer while others dismissed it as a missed opportunity.

Final Take on OG Movie

This og movie review makes one thing clear: They Call Him OG is a film crafted with Pawan Kalyan’s fans in mind. It delivers thrilling action, striking visuals, and plenty of fan service, but falls short in originality and emotional resonance. For die-hard admirers of the star, OG is a celebration. For others, it may feel like style overshadowing substance.

The og movie ultimately lands somewhere in the middle—an entertainer with unforgettable high points but also undeniable flaws. Whether it is hailed as a blockbuster or criticized as overhyped, the film is destined to remain one of the most talked-about releases of 2025.