Director Venu Sriram’s Thammudu (2025) is a rugged emotional action drama that blends sentiment with spectacle, anchored by a committed performance from Nithiin. Set against the hauntingly beautiful backdrop of the fictional forest region Ambaragodugu, the film explores the unbreakable bond between a brother and sister, wrapped in a 24-hour survival narrative.
Nithiin plays an archery athlete who embarks on a perilous mission to rescue his sister, Jhansi Kiranmayee (played by Laya in a graceful comeback), and her daughter from a violent cult-like community. The emotional core of the film lies in their relationship, with Laya’s portrayal adding gravitas and warmth.
The film’s strength lies in its atmospheric world-building. Cinematographers K.V. Guhan, Sameer Reddy, and Setu craft a dense, immersive forest landscape, while B. Ajaneesh Loknath’s score—especially the haunting “Bhuu Antuu Bhuutham”—elevates the tension. The action choreography is brutal and stylized, with five major set pieces that push the envelope for Telugu cinema.
Saurabh Sachdeva delivers a chilling performance as the antagonist, whose philosophy of “creation through destruction” adds a psychological edge. Supporting roles by Sapthami Gowda, Varsha Bollamma, Hari Teja, and Temper Vamsi round out the ensemble with emotional and physical intensity.
While the film earns an “A” certificate due to its violent sequences, it avoids gratuitous content and remains rooted in family-friendly storytelling. The pacing dips slightly in the second act, but the emotional payoff in the climax is worth the wait.
Thammudu is a bold, emotionally charged film that marks a strong comeback for Nithiin and a triumphant return for Laya. It’s a visual and emotional ride that reaffirms the power of familial love in the face of chaos.
Rating: 3.5/5