Movie Name: Kannappa
Rating: 2.5/5
Cast: Manchu Vishnu, Aksha Kumar, Prabhas, Preity Mukundan, Kajal Aggarwal, Mohanlal, Mohan Babu, and others
Director: Mukesh Kumar Singh
Produced By: Twenty Four Frames Factory and AVA Entertainment
Release Date: 27th June 2025
After a decade of hard work, Manchu Vishnu’s periodical-devotional film, Kannappa releases in theaters today. The film has huge star cast that includes Prabhas, Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal and many others. The film’s songs and trailer impressed audiences and now let us see how the film fares in our review.
Story:
Kannappa portrays Thinnadu, a young tribal skeptic of God. The film, inspired by Sri Kalahasti temple history, delves into Thinnadu’s struggle and defiance against traditional customs. The narrative focuses on Thinnadu’s transformation into a devoted follower of Lord Shiva, shaped by his relationships and experiences.
Performances:
Vishnu Manchu tries to embody the character of Thinnadu/Kannappa and though his performance is shaky at times, it lives a positive impact in the last moments. Preity Mukundan is suitable for the role.
Mohan Babu and Mohanlal are apt for the minor yet crucial roles, while Prabhas also impresses in an important cameo. Akshay Kumar delivers the needed effect for the Lord Shiva’s character, while Sarat Kumar, Kajal Aggarwal, Madhubala, Raghu Babu and others are fine.
Analysis:
It is widely known that the film Kannappa is an ambitious project of Manchu Vishnu. The story and the ending are known by audiences and that is why the writing and screenplay of the film gather more importance.
The first half looks mostly like filler. While the action and romance are acceptable, they lack relevance to a devotee film. The interval episode introduces Mohanlal as Kirata and it ends on an abrupt note.
But, the reason given for his character’s presence after the break is satisfactory. The movie again distracts thereafter with a lengthy action sequence.
The much awaited cameo of Prabhas arrives after a crucial turn and lifts the momentum. His scene with Mohan Babu, where he talks about devotion and religious ideologies, could have been better.
Thereafter, the most important transformation moment emerges for the lead character, which is the best part of the film. The feel is continued with Shiva Shiva Shankara and ends with an all-known but poignant climax.
Positives:
- Basic Plot
- Last half an hour of Second Half
- Prabhas – Mohanlal Cameos
- Last two songs
Negatives:
- Fluctuating Screenplay
- Very Ordinary First Half
- Ineffective Action Parts
- Lacks Solid Dialogues/Conversations
Kannappa Movie Review and Verdict:
In the final 30 minutes, Kannappa really gets it together. The film benefits from its music, the special appearances by Prabhas and Mohanlal, and Manchu Vishnu’s convincing performance in the finale. The movie has a fluctuating narration but remains enjoyable for those willing to overlook its issues.