Few stars in Telugu cinema generate the kind of frenzy that Pawan Kalyan does. His latest outing, They Call Him OG, directed by Sujeeth, has been one of the most anticipated releases of 2024. Fans were promised a larger-than-life gangster saga set against a backdrop of crime, betrayal, and redemption. But does the film live up to the hype? Let’s break it down in this pawan kalyan og movie review.
The Story: A Familiar Gangster Template
At its core, They Call Him OG follows the journey of a dreaded gangster who returns from exile to reclaim his lost empire. The premise sets up an intense power struggle, heavy on emotions like loyalty, vengeance, and family bonds.
However, while the story begins with promise, it struggles with pacing and coherence in the second half. Subplots are introduced with flair but not always tied together neatly, leaving parts of the narrative uneven.
The Performances: Pawan Kalyan Shines
- Pawan Kalyan: This is undoubtedly his show. His charisma, screen presence, and stylish swagger carry the film, even when the writing falters. He delivers both high-voltage action and emotional beats with conviction.
- Priyanka Arul Mohan: As the female lead, she brings warmth but has limited scope.
- Emraan Hashmi: Playing the antagonist, he adds menace but feels underutilized, especially in the climax.
- Supporting actors do their bit, but the focus remains firmly on Kalyan.
Action & Technical Brilliance
If there’s one arena where They Call Him OG triumphs, it’s action choreography and visual style. The high-octane sequences—gun battles, slow-motion shots, and stylized fights—are designed to thrill the masses.
- Cinematography: Ravi K. Chandran’s lens makes every frame look grand and gritty.
- Music: Thaman’s background score pulsates with energy, elevating even average scenes.
- Editing: Crisp in the first half, but the second half drags.
The Weak Links: Where OG Falters
Despite the spectacle, the film struggles in areas that matter for long-lasting impact:
- Narrative depth: The screenplay doesn’t dig deep into characters’ psyche, relying more on style than substance.
- Pacing issues: The film’s rhythm slows after the interval, making parts predictable.
- Emotional connect: Except for a few father-son moments, the drama doesn’t fully land.
Fans vs. Critics: A Divided Response
- Fans: For die-hard admirers of Pawan Kalyan, They Call Him OG is a feast. Whistles, claps, and goosebumps moments are guaranteed.
- General Audience: For non-fans, the lack of a tight script may test patience despite the spectacle.
- Critics: Most agree it’s a stylish entertainer but narratively uneven.
Final Verdict: Watch It for Pawan Kalyan
In conclusion, They Call Him OG is an action-packed gangster drama that relies heavily on its star power. While the film dazzles with stylish visuals and pulsating action, it leaves you wanting more from its story.
👉 Rating: 3/5
👉 Best for: Pawan Kalyan fans, action lovers, and those who enjoy mass entertainers.
If you go in expecting a layered gangster epic, you may be disappointed. But if you’re watching to celebrate Power Star’s return, the film delivers enough fireworks.