Nithiin's much-anticipated film, Robinhood, was originally slated for release on December 25, 2024, but the producers, Mythri Movie Makers, made a last-minute decision to delay the release. They were concerned the movie would be overshadowed by the buzz surrounding Pushpa 2. Following the quiet passing of the Christmas holiday and the decline in Pushpa 2's hype, many are questioning the choice made by the producers. Critics argue they missed out on potential box office success by not taking advantage of the festive season.
Fans expressing their disappointment note the lack of major Telugu films available for viewing, which could have worked to Robinhood's advantage. Observers argue Nithiin requires a solid hit to bolster both his career and public persona. The film, now shrouded in anticipation, stars Sreeleela as the female lead and features music composed by GV Prakash, under the direction of Venky Kudumula.
Meanwhile, the Kannada action thriller, Max, starring Kichcha Sudeep, was released on December 27, 2024, just two days later than its original debut. The film, which scored 3 out of 5 from 123telugu.com, follows the character of Arjun Mahakshay, known as Max, who faces numerous challenges following the suspicious deaths of criminals he arrests.
Directed by Vijay Kartikeyaa, Max brings together notable names such as Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Sunil, Samyukta Hornad, and more. Critics praised Sudeep's long-awaited performance, hinting it delivers what his followers crave: intense action coupled with emotional depth. His portrayal is complemented by Sarathkumar's role as a corrupt police officer, which has been deemed highly effective.
Some positive elements highlighted include Ajaneesh Loknath’s impactful background score, which significantly amplifies the film's dynamic action sequences. Still, certain criticisms emerged, mainly directed at the movie’s straightforward plot and predictable climax, which detracted from its overall creativity.
Despite these drawbacks, the fast-paced first half keeps viewers engaged, even though the second half tends to drag. Some performances, particularly of supporting cast members portraying police officers, were critiqued for being overly dramatic. Nonetheless, as the film navigates typical tropes of the mass action genre, many viewers have still found enjoyment.
Both Robinhood and Max highlight the shifting dynamics within Indian cinema as producers navigate market pressures and audience expectations. The delay of Robinhood may serve as a strategic miss for its creators when the competition lightens. On the other hand, Max demonstrates the demand for engaging narratives even when the plot retains familiar elements. It’s clear the industry will continue to evolve as filmmakers seek to balance tradition with innovation, providing audiences with options reflective of both the commercial and artistic aspects of cinema.
