Hyderabad: Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi's starrer Thandel hit the big screens on February 7, 2025, just in time for Valentine's Week, making it the perfect occasion for audiences to enjoy a love story. The film centers around Raju, played by Naga Chaitanya, and Satya, portrayed by Sai Pallavi, whose love persists against various formidable challenges. The heartwarming theme resonates beautifully with the romantic spirit of the season.
Early reviews have been largely favorable, creating positive word of mouth from the initial screenings, and signaling Thandel's promising start at the box office. The film has already seen impressive activity on online booking platforms, indicating strong demand. This release is particularly significant for Naga Chaitanya, who has faced setbacks at the box office recently. It also marks his third collaboration with director Chandoo Mondeti, following their earlier successful ventures, Premam (2016) and Savyasachi (2018).
Thandel is produced on a substantial budget of Rs 90 crore, making it one of the costliest films of Naga Chaitanya's career. The advance booking for the film was strategically kept close to the release date, potentially optimizing viewers' interest. According to early predictions, it is set to achieve double-digit opening figures at the Indian box office on its first day.
The film reportedly showcases Naga Chaitanya's best performance to date, with high expectations not only on the box office front but also for its digital and satellite distribution. Netflix has acquired the post-theatrical streaming rights for about Rs 40 crore, evidencing the film's anticipated success.
Reception to Thandel’s theatrical premiere has been overwhelmingly positive, characterized by audiences commending the chemistry between the lead pair. One reviewer noted, "The love story between Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi, plus the conflict between them, works engagingly,... songs are well-produced and the ocean scenes are beautifully crafted."
The film's initial earnings are promising, with industry tracker Sacnilk reporting a net business of Rs 1.26 crore shortly after opening. Expectations are high for these figures to rise as the day continues. The overseas response has also been impressive, with the film grossing over $200,000 during its USA premieres.
Thandel's producer, Allu Arvind, addressed the ticket price situation during its release, explaining, "Ticket prices are low in Andhra Pradesh... we requested a slight increase of Rs 50 per ticket". He clarified there were no special benefit shows for Thandel due to budget constraints, which led to the decision to independently handle the release rather than sell rights selectively.
Exploring the nuances of Thandel, the film intertwines romance with poignant themes reflecting resilience. Its dreams and dilemmas resonate deeply, particularly through the lead characters, who remain steadfast, dreaming of their future together amid the challenges of life as fishermen. This narrative draws inspiration from actual events involving 22 fishermen detained by Pakistan. It artfully combines elements of nationalism with romantic storytelling.
Critics have responded variably to the film's execution, stating, "Thandel is more of a breezy romantic drama... it falters when it shifts its focus onto the fishermen's stint within Karachi Central Jail." Some scenes have been critiqued for lacking the intensity and urgency needed. Notably, Naga Chaitanya's vulnerability and depth of character shine, especially during emotionally charged scenes. Conversely, Sai Pallavi's performance has been noted as inconsistent, initially criticized for over-expressiveness, but improving throughout the narrative.
Reactions to the film reflect both its charms and weaknesses, leading to varying expectations for its box office performance after the first weekend. Awards garnered for its music by Devi Sri Prasad also emerge as highlights, contributing to the film's favorable reception.
Following Thandel's theatrical success, there are discussions about its digital release, with Netflix slated to stream the movie approximately five weeks post-release. Speculation exists about the possibility of earlier access should the film's box office results warrant it.
Overall, Thandel encapsulates the essence of enduring love and the trials faced by those who live far from home. With its romantic gestures and captivating visuals, it may very well be the win Naga Chaitanya has been seeking during challenging times at the box office, and it offers audiences much to indulge in as they await the next chapter of love and life for Raju and Satya.