
Thu Dec 25 10:00:39 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten version as a news article:
Summary:
This is a review of the Telugu film “Champion,” set in 1947 Hyderabad during the Bhairanpally revolt. The film follows Michael Williams, a young Anglo-Indian football player from Secunderabad who dreams of migrating to England. His life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes involved in the revolt. The film boasts strong visuals, production design, and music, but the narrative struggles to fully develop its potential. While the film touches upon themes of identity, resilience, and the multiculturalism of the era, the writing is weak and the characters are often one-dimensional. The reviewer praises the performances of Rohan Meka (Michael Williams) and Anaswara Rajan (Chandrakala), while noting that the film wastes the talents of several experienced actors. Overall, “Champion” is described as an earnest effort that suffers from a lack of narrative focus and underdeveloped writing.
News Article:
Telugu Film “Champion” Fumbles Promising Premise: A Review
The Hindu, December 25, 2025 – “Champion,” the new Telugu period drama from writer-director Pradeep Advaitham, tackles the turbulent period of 1947 Hyderabad against the backdrop of the Bhairanpally revolt. The film centers on Michael Williams (Rohan Meka), a young Anglo-Indian footballer with aspirations of playing in England. However, his dreams are disrupted when he becomes entangled in the violent uprising against the Razakars.
While “Champion” boasts visually striking cinematography by Madhie and a captivating score by Mickey J Meyer, the film’s narrative struggles to live up to its potential. The story of identity, resilience, and the multicultural fabric of Hyderabad is explored, but ultimately feels underdeveloped.
Rohan Meka delivers a promising performance as Michael, and Anaswara Rajan shines as Chandrakala, a village playwright. However, the film’s script fails to fully utilize the talents of a veteran supporting cast, including Prakash Raj, Murali Sharma, and Kay Kay Menon.
Critics note that “Champion” seems torn between being a poignant tale of revolution and a vehicle to showcase Rohan Meka’s potential. The film is further hampered by uneven pacing and a lack of depth in its character development. While the movie succeeds in creating an engaging look and sound, viewers may ultimately be left wanting a more compelling story.