In a cinematic landscape where the classic tale of Robin Hood continues to inspire filmmakers, the latest Telugu film, Robinhood, directed by Venky Kudumula and starring Nithiin and Sreeleela, attempts to bring this age-old narrative to a contemporary audience. Released on March 28, 2025, the film has garnered attention not just for its star cast but also for its ambitious premise that intertwines comedy, action, and social commentary.
The story revolves around Ram (Nithiin), an orphan raised in a charitable institution, who takes on the Robin Hood persona to steal from the corrupt elite and support his fellow orphans. The film opens with Ram witnessing the struggles of Murthy (Shubhalekha Sudhakar), a dedicated worker striving to support the orphanage. Disillusioned by the societal pretense of compassion, Ram decides to fight back against the rich by robbing them, thus donning the alias ‘Robinhood’.
As the narrative unfolds, Ram’s antics attract the attention of the authorities, leading to the introduction of Victor (Shine Tom Chacko), a special officer brought in to capture him. Meanwhile, in Australia, Neera Vasudev (Sreeleela), the daughter of a wealthy businessman, receives a distress call from her relatives in India. Believing they are in danger, she returns to India, only to find herself entangled in Ram’s chaotic world.
While the film boasts a robust cast, including Rajendra Prasad and Vennela Kishore, it struggles to maintain a coherent narrative. Critics have pointed out that the film lacks depth and fails to engage the audience effectively. The story shifts to a lawless village where a gangster named Swamy (Devdatta Nage) terrorizes the locals, forcing them into illegal cannabis cultivation. This transition feels abrupt and poorly executed, raising questions about the film's pacing and character development.
Critics have noted that the film’s humor often falls flat, with many gags failing to elicit the intended laughter. The comedic elements, which Director Kudumula is known for, appear forced and inconsistent. For instance, while Rajendra Prasad and Vennela Kishore manage to deliver some amusing one-liners, the overall comedic tone of the film lacks the charm that characterized Kudumula’s previous hits, such as Bheeshma and Chalo.
Moreover, the film’s attempts at social commentary, particularly regarding the cannabis industry and the plight of orphans, feel superficial. Critics argue that the film’s narrative does not delve deeply enough into these themes, instead opting for a surface-level treatment that lacks the emotional weight necessary to resonate with viewers. This is particularly evident in the way the film handles the character of Neera, who is reduced to a mere plot device rather than a fully realized character.
One of the more talked-about aspects of Robinhood is the cameo by Australian cricketer David Warner, who plays a character that adds little to the story. His appearance, while generating buzz during the film's promotional campaign, ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to enhance the narrative rather than distract from it.
Technically, the film has its strengths. Sai Sriram’s cinematography captures the contrasting settings of urban life and rural struggles effectively, while G.V. Prakash Kumar’s music provides a backdrop that, while not groundbreaking, complements the film’s tone. However, the editing leaves much to be desired, with several scenes feeling unnecessarily prolonged, detracting from the overall pacing of the film.
Despite its shortcomings, Robinhood does have its moments of entertainment. The initial setup and the first half of the film present a promising premise, with Ram’s escapades providing some engaging sequences. Yet, as the film progresses, the narrative becomes increasingly convoluted, leading to a climax that fails to deliver the emotional payoff that audiences would expect from a film rooted in the Robin Hood legend.
In summary, Robinhood is a film that had the potential to be a refreshing take on a classic story but ultimately falls short due to weak writing and inconsistent execution. While it offers a few laughs and showcases a talented cast, it struggles to leave a lasting impression. As the film closes, viewers are left wondering whether the filmmakers believed in their own con, as the narrative fails to engage on a deeper level.
With a rating of 2 out of 5 stars from various critics, Robinhood serves as a reminder that even the most beloved stories need careful handling to resonate with contemporary audiences. As Nithiin and Sreeleela navigate their roles in this uneven comedy, the film highlights the challenges of reviving a classic tale in a way that feels fresh and engaging.
