Kuberaa Movie Review: A Thought-Provoking Socio-Political Thriller Anchored by Stellar Performances
Sekhar Kammula’s Kuberaa (2025), a pan-Indian crime drama, marks a bold departure from the director’s signature feel-good romances and slice-of-life dramas. Known for films like Anand and Fidaa, Kammula ventures into uncharted territory with this gritty socio-political thriller, tackling themes of greed, power, morality, and systemic corruption. Starring Dhanush, Nagarjuna Akkineni, Rashmika Mandanna, and Jim Sarbh, Kuberaa is an ambitious exploration of wealth disparity and human resilience. While it doesn’t always hit the mark, the film’s compelling premise, exceptional performances, and bold storytelling make it a rewarding cinematic experience. This review dives into the film’s strengths, flaws, and overall impact, offering a comprehensive look at why Kuberaa stands out in 2025’s cinematic landscape.
Plot and Themes
Kuberaa weaves a complex narrative centered on three distinct characters whose lives intersect in a world driven by ambition and deceit. The story follows Deva (Dhanush), a kind-hearted beggar with a photographic memory, who is unwittingly drawn into a massive financial scam orchestrated by Neeraj Mitra (Jim Sarbh), a ruthless billionaire aiming to monopolize a rare oil reserve in the Bay of Bengal. Neeraj enlists Deepak (Nagarjuna), a disillusioned ex-CBI officer imprisoned for his integrity, to execute a money-laundering scheme using beggars as benamis (proxies). When Deva discovers the syndicate’s plan to eliminate him, he goes on the run, joined by Sameera (Rashmika Mandanna), a naïve yet resilient woman. The film unfolds as a cat-and-mouse chase, exploring the cost of power, the moral dilemmas of survival, and the stark divide between the ultra-rich and the marginalized.
Kammula’s screenplay, co-written with Chaithanya Pingali, tackles heavy themes with intelligence, addressing corruption, wealth inequality, and the exploitation of the poor. The concept of using beggars as benamis is a novel twist, shedding light on the invisible underclass often ignored by society. The film’s title, derived from the Hindu god of wealth, underscores its fable-like moral about the haves and have-nots. While the narrative raises pertinent questions about morality and ambition, it occasionally struggles to balance its ambitious scope with cohesive execution, particularly in the second half.
Performances
The heart of Kuberaa lies in its powerhouse performances, with Dhanush delivering what many critics and audiences call a career-best act. As Deva, he embodies vulnerability, resilience, and quiet strength, transforming from a humble beggar to a financial ghost navigating a treacherous world. His physicality—marked by tattered clothes and a weary gait—and emotional depth, especially in scenes of compassion toward animals and people, make Deva a compelling protagonist. Dhanush’s nuanced portrayal is raw and captivating, earning praise as award-worthy across reviews.
Nagarjuna Akkineni shines in a rare, morally complex role as Deepak, a once-honest officer forced to compromise his ideals. His restrained performance captures the internal conflict of a man torn between survival and conscience, with his scenes alongside Dhanush standing out for their emotional weight. Rashmika Mandanna, as Sameera, adds warmth and innocence, her chemistry with Dhanush bringing moments of levity and heart to the intense narrative. Her performance in the dumpyard sequence is particularly noteworthy, showcasing her ability to hold her own alongside seasoned actors. Jim Sarbh, as the cunning Neeraj Mitra, delivers a chilling yet understated performance, exuding menace with minimal screen time. The supporting cast, including Dalip Tahil and Sayaji Shinde, adds texture, though some roles feel underutilized.
Direction and Technical Aspects
Sekhar Kammula’s direction is both a strength and a point of contention. Known for his emotionally grounded storytelling, he steps out of his comfort zone with Kuberaa, crafting a slow-burn thriller that prioritizes atmosphere over commercial tropes. The film’s first half is gripping, with a well-executed setup and a standout interval sequence involving a dogfight. Kammula’s choice to shoot in real locations—Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Tamil Nadu—lends authenticity, with scenes like Dhanush begging in Tirupati feeling raw and immersive. However, the pacing falters in the second half, where repetitive sequences and an overlong runtime of 3 hours and 1 minute dilute the impact. A tighter edit, trimming 15-20 minutes, could have elevated the film’s intensity.
Technically, Kuberaa is impressive. Niketh Bommireddy’s cinematography bathes the film in moody shadows and golden hues, reflecting the duality of its characters and themes. The visuals, particularly in Mumbai’s high-rises and gritty streets, create a stark contrast between wealth and poverty. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score is a highlight, shifting seamlessly between subdued and rousing, though some posts criticize the songs for feeling outdated. Karthika Srinivas’ editing maintains coherence in the dense screenplay but struggles to maintain momentum in the middle sections. Thota Tharani’s production design adds authenticity, grounding the film’s larger-than-life narrative.
Strengths and Flaws
Kuberaa excels in its bold premise and character-driven storytelling. The film’s exploration of systemic corruption and class disparity is thought-provoking, with emotionally charged sequences—like Deva carrying Khushboo against the backdrop of a Shiva Stotram—leaving a lasting impression. Kammula’s refusal to rely on commercial formulas, such as forced comedy or item songs, makes the film a refreshing departure from typical blockbusters. The performances, particularly Dhanush’s, elevate the narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of layered storytelling.
However, the film is not without flaws. The pacing issues, especially in the second half, lead to moments of disengagement, with some sequences feeling repetitive. The climax, while emotionally resonant for some, has been criticized as rushed or underwhelming, failing to deliver the narrative punch promised by the buildup. Some reviews note unanswered questions and underutilized characters, which prevent Kuberaa from being a game-changer. Despite these shortcomings, the film’s sincerity and ambition make it a commendable effort.
Final Verdict
Kuberaa is a bold, thought-provoking addition to Sekhar Kammula’s filmography, driven by Dhanush’s stellar performance and a compelling premise. While it struggles with pacing and a rushed climax, its emotional depth, strong performances, and relevant themes make it a satisfying watch. For those who appreciate cerebral thrillers with social commentary, Kuberaa is a rewarding experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It’s not flawless, but it’s a brave leap for a filmmaker unafraid to challenge conventions.
Rating: 3.5/5