Kingdom Movie Review – Jaw-dropping first half, Average 2nd Half, But Watchable

Director Gowtam Tinnanuri, known for weaving deep emotions into compelling narratives like Jersey, returns with Kingdom, a film that blends brotherhood, action, and emotional tension. The story may feel familiar, reminiscent of classics like Deewar, and the trailer itself lays out the core premise: two estranged brothers, one a righteous constable (Vijay Devarakonda), the other a smuggler (Satya Dev), are drawn into a spiraling conflict that challenges their values, loyalty, and love.

What sets Kingdom apart is not its storyline, but how it is told. Tinnanuri crafts a film made for theatres: with rich visuals, engaging pacing, and dramatic highs. Every frame oozes cinematic appeal, with the director ensuring that the theatrical experience is felt throughout.

Vijay Devarakonda delivers a grounded yet powerful performance. His portrayal of anger and innocence, without exaggeration, elevates his presence. Satya Dev, equally compelling, matches him beat for beat, making their emotional dynamic the heart of the film. Bhagyashree Bose appears briefly, offering brief relief amid the film’s intensity.

On the technical front, Anirudh Ravichander’s background score boosts the emotional impact. The cinematography and editing align well with the film’s tone, helping carry the narrative through its twists.

The first half is gripping and emotionally charged, but the second half becomes slightly cluttered. Much like recent films Retro and Thug Life, Kingdom suffers from trying to pack in too many layers: coming-of-age themes, emotional family drama, heroism, and thriller elements, all competing for attention. As a result, focus and cohesion take a hit.

Kingdom offers a racy and emotionally rich first half, followed by a somewhat overstuffed but decent second half. Despite its flaws, it remains a watchable theatrical experience with strong performances.