Shankar's much-awaited political thriller Game Changer hit theatres today (January 10), creating a buzz among fans and cinephiles alike. Featuring Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, and SJ Suryah in pivotal roles, the movie has been the talk of the town for months. Known for his penchant for grand cinematic experiences, Shankar brings his signature style to this Telugu feature, which is also his first venture in the language. The movie has been released pan-India in five languages, making it a truly national event.
Ram Charan’s Dual Role Stuns Fans
One of the most anticipated aspects of Game Changer was Ram Charan's portrayal of dual roles — father and son. Early Twitter (or X) reviews suggest that the star’s screen presence is a major highlight of the film. Many fans were quick to laud Ram Charan for seamlessly transitioning between the two roles.
A fan tweeted, “Ram Charan is the heart and soul of Game Changer. His performance in the father’s role is full of gravitas, while his younger version carries the energy and charm we've come to love. He’s truly a powerhouse performer.”
Kiara Advani, making her Telugu debut, also received praise for her role. Viewers highlighted her chemistry with Ram Charan, calling it “refreshing and one of the best aspects of the film.”
Shankar’s Technical Brilliance Shines
Game Changer marks Shankar’s return to form after the underwhelming response to Indian 2. Twitterati hailed his directorial prowess, especially in crafting grand visuals and action sequences. A viewer posted, “It’s the Shankar we missed! Every frame of Game Changer is visually stunning. The cinematography, music, and sets are pure grandeur. This is a comeback film for the ages.”
Trade analyst Manobala Vijayabalan also chimed in, writing, “Shankar has given a remarkable comeback with a film that blends engaging storytelling, stellar performances, and top-notch technical elements to create an immersive cinematic experience.”
The movie’s cinematography, helmed by Thiru, and music by Thaman S were repeatedly singled out for praise. Many called the background score “goosebump-inducing” and a perfect match for the high-octane political drama.
Mixed Reactions to Plot and Logic
While the film’s technical brilliance and performances garnered applause, a section of viewers expressed disappointment with the story. According to some Twitter users, Game Changer suffers from a routine plot and predictable screenplay.
One critic tweeted, “Game Changer has its moments, but the story feels outdated. The screenplay lacks the freshness we expect from Shankar’s films.”
The over-the-top action sequences also became a target of memes and criticism. A viral tweet read, “Where is Logic? Where is Physics? Shankar needs to tone down the mass elements to cater to a larger audience.” Despite the criticism, fans of commercial cinema defended the film, stating that such sequences are a staple of the genre.
Viewers Praise Shankar’s Social Message
At its core, Game Changer addresses electoral reforms, a theme that resonates with audiences across India. Shankar blends his signature mass entertainment style with a socially relevant message, sparking conversations online. Many viewers appreciated the director’s attempt to weave political commentary into an entertaining narrative.
A viewer commented, “Game Changer is more than a movie; it’s a statement. The message about electoral reforms is timely and important. Kudos to Shankar for making it accessible through a mass entertainer.”
Kiara Advani and SJ Suryah Add Depth
Kiara Advani, in her Telugu debut, impressed fans with her performance. Critics and fans alike praised her for holding her own alongside Ram Charan. One fan wrote, “Kiara is a revelation in Game Changer. Her role is not just a token love interest; she adds real value to the story.”
SJ Suryah, playing the antagonist, also garnered praise for his intense portrayal. Many users highlighted his performance as one of the film’s strong points.
Box Office Expectations
Given the buzz around the film, Game Changer is expected to perform well at the box office. The film’s pan-India release ensures a wider audience, and Ram Charan’s star power, combined with Shankar’s legacy, is likely to translate into strong numbers.
Trade analysts predict a blockbuster opening, with several morning shows already running at full capacity. A trade expert shared, “Game Changer is poised for a strong start. The positive word of mouth, especially about Ram Charan’s dual roles and Shankar’s direction, will help the film sustain in the coming weeks.”
Twitter Buzz: Early Reviews Set the Tone
The first shows of Game Changer began at 1 am in parts of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, with Twitter flooded with reactions by 2:30 am. By dawn, the hashtag #GameChanger was trending, with fans and critics sharing their opinions.
Positive reviews outnumbered the negative ones, with many calling it a “mass entertainer worth the hype.” One fan wrote, “Simply put, Game Changer is a good film that you can watch with your family. It has drama, action, emotion, and a message. What more do you need?”
However, detractors criticised the film for its reliance on outdated tropes. A tweet read, “Game Changer could’ve been so much more. The predictable story and cringe-worthy comedy scenes pull it down.”
Conclusion
Game Changer is a mixed bag, but it has more hits than misses. Ram Charan’s stellar performance, Shankar’s directorial brilliance, and the film’s grand visuals make it a must-watch for fans of political thrillers and commercial cinema. While the plot may not break new ground, the movie succeeds in delivering entertainment and sparking discussions about electoral reforms.
As one fan aptly put it, “Game Changer isn’t perfect, but it’s a spectacle. Ram Charan and Shankar have delivered a film that celebrates the larger-than-life essence of Indian cinema. Go for the experience!”
Whether you love it or find faults in it, there’s no denying that Game Changer has set the stage for an exciting start to 2025 in Indian cinema. Fans are likely to continue debating the film’s merits and flaws, but one thing is certain: Game Changer has made its mark.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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