Telugu cinema has once again taken center stage with the release of the action-comedy film Robinhood, starring Nithiin and Sreeleela, which hit theaters on March 28, 2025. Directed by Venky Kudumula, the film revolves around a modern-day Robin Hood who unexpectedly transitions from being a thief to becoming the bodyguard of a high-profile client.
The movie has generated significant buzz, especially with the debut of former Australian cricketer David Warner in a cameo role. However, the film has received mixed reviews from audiences, with some praising the performances while others criticize its predictability and pacing.
Robinhood tells the story of Ram (Nithiin), a skilled thief who steals from the wealthy to support orphanages. He devises clever plans to distribute his loot to those in need. As Ram embarks on his latest heist, he inadvertently becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving a ruthless villain (played by Devadatta Nage) who plans to expand his illegal marijuana business internationally. The narrative takes a turn when Ram is assigned to protect Reena Vasudev (Sreeleela), a wealthy NRI visiting from Australia, who is caught in the crosshairs of the drug cartel.
Reviews from early viewers have been polarizing. Some have expressed their enjoyment of the film, noting its comedic elements and engaging performances. One viewer tweeted, "Just watched #Robinhood, a pakka commercial entertainer. Simple story with good comedy. I thoroughly enjoyed @vennelakishore's comedy. @actor_nithiin and #RajendraPrasad's duo was the biggest asset to the movie. BGM by @gvprakash was good. @davidwarner31's cameo gave me complete goosebumps." This sentiment highlights the film's comedic strengths, particularly the chemistry between Nithiin and Rajendra Prasad, who deliver several laugh-out-loud moments.
On the flip side, others have labeled the film a "bore fest," criticizing its predictable screenplay and lack of depth. One user remarked, "#Robinhood is a bore fest, a waste of time. The only plus is a few laughs from Vennela Kishore. Predictable screenplay, irritating songs, and it's too lengthy. I expected better from Venky, especially after such a long break. Very messy." Such critiques point to a broader concern about the film's pacing and narrative structure, particularly in the second half.
Despite the mixed reviews, Robinhood showcases the talents of its cast. Nithiin delivers a solid performance, embodying the character of Ram with charm and style. His comedic timing and emotional expressions have been praised, while Sreeleela's portrayal of Reena adds a layer of charm to the film. However, some critics argue that her role lacks depth, with one review stating, "Sreeleela is charming as the wealthy yet naive Neera, though her role offers limited depth."
David Warner's cameo has been a talking point among fans. His performance, characterized by a light comedic touch, adds an unexpected twist to the film. However, some reviewers felt that his role, while entertaining, did not significantly impact the overall narrative. One critic noted, "David Warner's cameo is fun but ultimately adds little to the story," suggesting that the film could have benefitted from a more integrated approach to character development.
Technical aspects of the film have also drawn attention. The production values are deemed decent, although some viewers noted that the VFX work faltered in certain moments. For instance, a bloodstain on Nithiin's face appeared noticeably artificial, indicating a need for refinement. The music, composed by G.V. Prakash, complements the film's tone but has been described as uninspiring, with several songs disrupting the flow of the story.
Despite its flaws, the film has found favor with some audiences. One viewer tweeted, "#Robinhood is decent! A silly, predictable comedy-drama that works hilariously on the comedy front but is average on the drama side." This sentiment reflects a recognition of the film's ability to entertain, even if it does not break new ground in storytelling. While the film's humor works in parts, it ultimately falls into predictable patterns, making it a routine commercial entertainer.
In terms of direction, Venky Kudumula has been praised for his ability to balance humor and emotion, a hallmark of his previous works. However, some critics argue that the film lacks the sharpness and originality seen in his earlier projects. The screenplay, while engaging, tends to slow down as the film progresses, leading to a loss of momentum in the second half. One review pointed out that "the villain, who was shown as a strong character in the beginning, is reduced to a weak figure towards the climax, which feels underwhelming."
Overall, Robinhood serves as a lighthearted entertainer that delivers its fair share of laughs and emotional beats, despite its shortcomings. As audiences continue to weigh in on the film, it remains to be seen whether it will find a lasting place in the hearts of Telugu cinema fans. While it may not be a groundbreaking cinematic experience, it offers a fun escape for those looking for a time-pass movie.
