Fri May 30 06:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Manchu Manoj’s ‘Bhairavam’ Sparks Mixed Reactions Upon Release**
Hyderabad, India – Manchu Manoj’s highly anticipated return to the silver screen with “Bhairavam,” a Telugu remake of the Tamil hit “Garudan,” has hit theaters. The film, directed by Vijay Kanakamedala, is an action drama exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and justice against a rustic backdrop. Early reviews have been pouring in since its release on Friday, May 30, 2025, with opinions ranging from disappointment to praise.
Several users on X (formerly Twitter) expressed concerns about the film’s execution. One user noted, “Bhairavam starts off okay but loses grip soon after,” criticizing the lack of emotional depth and the misplaced comedy and songs. Another review echoed this sentiment, calling the film “below average overall” despite strong performances from Manchu Manoj and Nara Rohit, pointing to Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas’ overacting and excessive action as detractors.
However, not all reviews were negative. Some viewers appreciated the film’s intensity and storytelling, with one user describing it as a “powerful action drama elevated by stellar performances.” Others highlighted the film’s performances, cinematography, and overall story, while acknowledging issues with predictability, pacing, and distracting subplots.
Manchu Manoj portrays Gajapathi Varma, a role described as a departure from his previous work. Director Kanakamedala has praised Manoj’s performance as a “riveting return” for the actor. The film also features Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas as Seenu and Nara Rohith as Varada, with Aditi Shankar, Anandhi, and Divya Pillai in supporting roles.
“Bhairavam” is produced by K.K. Radhamohan under the Sri Sathya Sai Arts banner and presented by Dr. Jayantilal Gada of Pen Studios. The film features a soundtrack by Sricharan Pakala and cinematography by Hari K. Vedantam. Whether “Bhairavam” can overcome its initial mixed reception and resonate with a broader audience remains to be seen.