Release & Box Office
The action-drama film Maalik, released on July 11, 2025, is led by Rajkummar Rao in a powerful gangster role. Made on a budget of around ₹54 crore, the movie had a slow start at the box office, earning around ₹3 to ₹4 crore on Day 1 in India. However, interest in the film picked up due to strong word of mouth, especially in metro cities and northern states.
Audience Reaction
Viewers appreciated Rajkummar Rao’s intense performance, calling it one of his boldest roles. Many highlighted the film’s gripping first half, fast-paced storytelling, and sharp dialogues. Social media reactions describe the film as “raw,” “gritty,” and “emotionally charged.”
Some viewers mentioned that while the story is not entirely new, the energy and performance make it worth watching. The emotional depth in some scenes also left a strong impact on many.
What Works in the Film
- Rajkummar Rao’s Performance: His transformation from a small-town boy to a feared gangster feels believable and powerful.
- Authentic Setting: The film presents the culture, language, and environment of Uttar Pradesh with detail and realism.
- Engaging First Half: The movie opens with a solid narrative pace, building up strong character arcs and setting the tone for action.
- Dialogues and Music: The background score adds intensity, and several one-liners leave a lasting impression.
What Doesn’t Work
- Predictable Storyline: The plot follows a familiar gangster-to-power formula without many new twists.
- Slow Second Half: After a strong start, the movie loses momentum post-interval with repetitive scenes.
- Too Much Violence: The film’s heavy use of bloodshed and brutal scenes may not appeal to every viewer.
Review Ratings Summary
| Review Source | Rating | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Audience Score | 4.5 / 5 | Highly praised for acting and dialogues |
| Critic Ratings | 2.5 to 3.5 / 5 | Mixed reviews, mostly positive for performance |
| Popular Review Sites | Average 3 / 5 | Noted as intense but lacking originality |
| Public Buzz | Strongly Positive | Social media praised Rao and film’s raw tone |
Final Verdict
Maalik (2025) is a gritty and emotional gangster drama powered by a standout performance from Rajkummar Rao. It brings intense action, real-world settings, and solid storytelling — especially in the first half. However, the lack of freshness in the plot and a slower second half keep it from being a perfect film.
Overall, Maalik is a solid one-time watch for fans of raw crime dramas and strong acting. It delivers drama, action, and emotion — all with a regional flavor that feels real and bold.
