Kuberaa (2025) Movie Review: A Deep Dive into Sekhar Kammula’s Vision
Introduction
Kuberaa (2025) is a masterclass in layered storytelling, helmed by Sekhar Kammula.
The film portrays the descent and ascent of a beggar turned kingpin in a world of corruption.
The movie blends introspective character arcs with socio-political commentary.
With strong performances and nuanced direction, Kuberaa creates a thought-provoking crime drama.
Character Arcs and Development
Deva, played by Dhanush, experiences a profound transformation from the streets to corridors of power.
His internal conflict, guilt, and ambition unfold gradually through his stoic expressions and actions.
Deepak, portrayed by Nagarjuna Akkineni, is a former CBI officer lost in the tide of greed.
His fall from grace is as gripping as Deva’s rise, making their arcs beautifully interconnected.
Sameera, essayed by Rashmika Mandanna, starts as enigmatic but reveals deeper emotional layers.
Her presence becomes the moral compass of the story as she challenges Deva’s choices.
Neeraj, acted by Jim Sarbh, is the cold-hearted capitalist.
His arc remains static but his interactions cause ripples in the lives of others.
Screenplay Quality
The screenplay is structured with precision, following a slow-burn format.
Dialogues are crisp, symbolic, and layered, reflecting the characters’ evolving motivations.
Scenes between Deva and Deepak are laced with subtext and suppressed emotion.
Every exchange contributes to the moral ambiguity and complexity of the film.
Genre Comparison
Within the crime drama genre, Kuberaa stands tall with its philosophical undertones.
It refrains from action-heavy clichés and chooses a meditative, psychological approach.
Compared to recent Indian crime dramas like Jawan or Vikram Vedha,
Kuberaa is quieter, deeper, and more introspective in its exploration of greed.
Directorial Choices
Sekhar Kammula employs long takes and close-up shots to convey tension and intimacy.
His focus on silences and background score over dramatic flair adds authenticity.
The choice to avoid glamourizing wealth or violence grounds the narrative.
Scenes set in narrow alleys and shadowed rooms echo the film’s moral themes.
Influences and Inspirations
Kuberaa draws thematic inspiration from classics like The Godfather and Guru.
Kammula’s storytelling reflects elements of neo-noir and post-liberalization Indian cinema.
The character of Deva mirrors mythological metaphors, perhaps inspired by Kubera,
the Hindu god of wealth, symbolizing the duality of abundance and ruin.
Comparison to Previous Works
Compared to Kammula’s earlier romantic dramas, Kuberaa is a bold deviation.
His focus has shifted from love and youth to ambition, corruption, and power.
Yet his hallmark sensitivity remains—each character has a soul and space to breathe.
Kuberaa marks his growth as a filmmaker capable of handling morally complex material.
Director’s Signature Elements
Subtle emotional shifts, strong female characters, and moral introspection remain intact.
Even in a crime setting, Kammula’s humane touch and realism shine through.
He integrates social commentary without being preachy,
and his preference for internal conflicts over external spectacle defines Kuberaa.
Box Office Performance
Kuberaa opened to moderate numbers but gained traction via word-of-mouth.
Its pan-Indian appeal and strong performances helped it sustain beyond the opening weekend.
While not a blockbuster, it emerged as a respectable hit across Tamil and Telugu belts.
The film’s depth resonated with critics and a niche, cinema-savvy audience.
Performance Table
| Actor | Character | Performance Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Dhanush | Deva | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Nagarjuna Akkineni | Deepak | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Rashmika Mandanna | Sameera | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Jim Sarbh | Neeraj | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Star Rating Table
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| IMDb | 6.8/10 |
| Critics Average | 3.5/5 |
Final Verdict
Kuberaa isn’t just about crime or wealth—it’s a study of conscience.
It offers a powerful blend of realism, character study, and directorial finesse.
The film demands patience but rewards with layered storytelling and stellar acting.
Dhanush’s performance alone is worth the ticket price, elevated by a solid ensemble.
Disclaimer
Ratings mentioned are subjective and may vary depending on viewer expectations.
FAQs
Question 1
How does Kuberaa differ from other crime dramas?
Answer 1
Kuberaa takes a meditative approach to crime drama, focusing on character and morality rather than action.
Question 2
What is the highlight of Dhanush’s role in Kuberaa?
Answer 2
Dhanush excels in portraying Deva’s evolution from a helpless beggar to a morally conflicted power figure.
Question 3
Is Kuberaa suitable for family viewing?
Answer 3
While the film contains mature themes, it avoids excessive violence, making it viewable for mature family audiences.
Question 4
Does Sekhar Kammula succeed in a new genre?
Answer 4
Yes, Kammula transitions well into crime drama while retaining his emotional, character-driven style.
Question 5
Which other movies does Kuberaa resemble in tone?
Answer 5
It resembles Guru, The Godfather, and portions of Satya in its psychological and philosophical undertones.