Ajith Kumar's much-anticipated film, Good Bad Ugly, has finally hit theaters, and the response from fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Released on April 10, 2025, the film is directed by Adhik Ravichandran and features Ajith in a multi-layered role that showcases his versatility as an actor. The film unfolds across international landscapes, with major portions filmed in Hyderabad and Spain, and has been described as a grand cinematic venture that is both a tribute to Ajith's career and a thrilling action drama.
From the outset, the film has captivated audiences with its stylish action sequences and nostalgic references to Ajith's previous works. Many fans took to social media to express their excitement, with one user stating, "Best entertainer from #AjithKumar sir in last 12-14 years. Maybe better than #Mankatha!" Another fan remarked, "A mass-loaded fan feast with vintage #AjithKumar vibes, but weighed down by a thin plot." The film's opening day box office collection was impressive, earning Rs 8.74 crore across all languages by 1 PM, as reported by Sacnilk.com.
The film features Ajith as AK, a feared gangster who attempts to leave his violent past behind for the sake of his family. However, when his son Vihaan is wrongfully accused of serious crimes, AK is forced to return to his old ways to protect his family. Ajith's portrayal of a complex character balancing aggression with emotional depth has resonated with fans, many of whom have hailed the film as a triumphant return to form for the superstar.
Critics have noted that while the film delivers on action and fan service, it struggles with emotional depth and a cohesive narrative. One reviewer mentioned, "The movie delivers action but falls flat emotionally." Despite this, the film has been praised for its electrifying background score by GV Prakash Kumar, which elevates the overall cinematic experience.
The ensemble cast includes Trisha Krishnan, who plays a key role as AK's wife, as well as Arjun Das, SJ Suryah, and Jackie Shroff. Their performances have added depth to the film, although some critics felt that the character development was lacking. Trisha’s role, while significant, has been described as short and monotonous, failing to leave a lasting impression.
Director Adhik Ravichandran's approach to the film has been characterized as unapologetically fan-centric, with numerous references to Ajith's past films. This has led to a mixed reception among viewers, with some enjoying the nostalgia while others felt it detracted from the story. "Good Bad Ugly is a fanboy cinema, and has its right theatre moments and Easter eggs, if that’s all you want to enjoy a film," noted one critic.
As the film continues to draw crowds in theaters, the atmosphere surrounding its release has been electric. Fans have celebrated the film with elaborate cutouts and cheering crowds, transforming the release into a festive occasion across Tamil Nadu. Videos of fans celebrating outside theaters have circulated on social media, showcasing the immense love and admiration for Ajith Kumar.
However, the film's success has not come without controversy. Theatre owners in Madurai have alleged that the film's distributor, Romeo Pictures, pressured them to sell tickets at inflated prices, leading to tensions within the industry. The regular ticket price of Rs 190 was reportedly raised to Rs 500, causing frustration among exhibitors.
Despite the mixed reviews, many fans believe that Good Bad Ugly is a celebration of Ajith Kumar's legacy. One fan described it as a "perfect theater celebration of the star," filled with "whistle-worthy moments, thrilling scenes, and nonstop entertainment." Another fan echoed this sentiment, stating that the film is a "solid theatre celebration of AK!"
As the film continues to perform well at the box office, it remains to be seen how it will fare in the long run. With its blend of action, nostalgia, and Ajith's star power, Good Bad Ugly is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about films of 2025, appealing primarily to Ajith's dedicated fan base.
In conclusion, Good Bad Ugly may not have achieved universal acclaim, but it has undoubtedly struck a chord with fans who have eagerly awaited Ajith Kumar's return to the big screen. The film's combination of high-energy action and nostalgic references has created a unique viewing experience that resonates with audiences, making it a significant addition to Ajith's illustrious career.
