Last Updated on March 5, 2025 by Prabhukalyan Dhal
The much-anticipated Telugu romantic action thriller Thandel hit theaters on 7th February 2025 and is now set for its OTT release on Netflix on 7th March 2025. Directed by Chandoo Mondeti and produced by Bunny Vasu under Geetha Arts, the film is based on a real-life incident involving fishermen who accidentally crossed international waters and were captured by Pakistani authorities. With a stellar cast, breathtaking visuals, and a gripping storyline, the film has already grossed ₹100 crores worldwide. Here’s an in-depth review of Thandel and what makes it a must-watch.
Thandel Movie Review
Upon its release, Thandel received mixed-to-positive reviews from critics. While the film has been praised for its stellar performances, captivating visuals, and powerful music, some critics pointed out that certain sequences felt exaggerated for dramatic effect.
Milagro Movies tweeted “Thandel’s romantic moments are more than just scenes—they are pure emotions! An amazing experience in the theater.
Rating: 3.25/5″
Box Office posted, ‘A heartfelt love story that deeply connects with the audience. The second half is a blockbuster! #NagaChaitanya and #SaiPallavi deliver outstanding performances, while DSP’s songs and background music stand out beautifully.”
Tollywood Box Office tweeted with caption “#Thandel Review: A Must-Watch!
#NagaChaitanya shines as Thandel Raju, owning every scene with his powerful portrayal of a rural fisherman.
#SaiPallavi adds deep emotions, carrying the heart of the story, while #DeviSriPrasad’s music beautifully enhances the love story.
Though the first 20 minutes start slow, the film picks up with an engaging screenplay and a strong interval block. The second half is packed with emotions, blending love and patriotism perfectly.
Overall Rating: 3.5/5
Highly recommended for a theater experience!”
What Works:
- Naga Chaitanya’s career-best performance: He brings authenticity to the role of a fisherman with raw emotions and intense action sequences.
- Sai Pallavi’s compelling portrayal: Her portrayal of Satya, a woman battling the emotional turmoil of separation, is deeply moving.
- Devi Sri Prasad’s mesmerizing music: The soundtrack, including chartbuster songs like “Bujji Thalli”, elevates the emotional depth of the film.
- Cinematography & Production Design: Shamdat Sainudeen’s cinematography captures the beauty of the sea and the chaos of prison life with stunning visuals.
What Falls Short:
- Dramatized prison sequences: The portrayal of the Pakistani jail and political involvement, while engaging, leans heavily on cinematic liberties.
- Slow second half: The narrative pace slightly falters post-interval, making some moments feel stretched.
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Thandel Release Date
Thandel, the much-anticipated Telugu romantic action thriller, was released in theaters on 7th February 2025 and received an overwhelming response from audiences. Following its successful theatrical run, the Thandel movie release date for OTT has been officially announced, with the film set to premiere on Netflix from 7th March 2025. Fans who missed the theatrical experience can now enjoy the film from the comfort of their homes.
Thandel Movie Plot
Thandel tells the gripping tale of Raju, a dedicated fisherman who shares a deep love with Satya. Despite Satya’s concerns and repeated pleas for him to leave the dangerous life at sea and seek a safer livelihood, Raju refuses to abandon his passion. However, fate takes a tragic turn when he unknowingly drifts into Pakistani waters while fishing and is arrested. What follows is an emotional rollercoaster of separation, struggle, and resilience as Satya embarks on an unwavering mission to bring Raju and his fellow fishermen back home.
Inspired by a real-life incident that occurred in 2018, the film sheds light on how Pakistani forces captured a fisherman from Srikakulam after he unknowingly crossed international waters. The romantic thriller masterfully portrays the hardships faced by those caught between international conflicts and the unwavering determination of a woman fighting against all odds for the man she loves.
Cast of Thandel
- Naga Chaitanya as Raju – A fisherman caught in an international crisis.
- Sai Pallavi as Satya – A strong-willed woman fighting for her love.
- Prakash Belawadi as Pakistani Jailer – A formidable antagonist.
- Aadukalam Naren as Chittha – Adding emotional weight to the narrative.
- Divya Pillai as Chandra – A crucial character in Raju’s journey.
- Babloo Prithiveeraj, Karunakaran, and Kalpa Latha – Supporting roles that enhance the story’s depth.
Thandel Movie Budget & Box Office Collection
With an estimated budget of ₹75 crores, Thandel has exceeded expectations at the box office, grossing ₹100 crores worldwide. This makes it the fourth highest-grossing Telugu film of 2025 and the eighth highest-grossing Indian film of the year.
Watch Thandel Hindi Trailer Here
Thandel OTT Release Date: Where and When Can You Watch It?
For those who missed watching Thandel in theaters, the film is set to stream on Netflix starting 7th March 2025. The satellite rights were acquired by Zee Telugu, ensuring a wider audience reach.
The production company Geetha Arts tweeted the announcement of the OTT release with a caption “Yuvasamrat @chay_akkineni shares his cherished memories from the #Thandel shoot ✨
A blockbuster journey that will always hold a special place in his heart ❤️ #BlockbusterThandel premieres on #Netflix from March 7th in Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam ❤
Personal Verdict: Should You Watch Thandel?
Thandel is an emotionally charged drama that balances love, patriotism, and survival. While it takes creative liberties with its political and prison sequences, the performances, visuals, and music make it a compelling watch. Sai Pallavi and Naga Chaitanya’s on-screen chemistry is electric, making their love story one to root for.
If you enjoy romantic thrillers with a patriotic edge, Thandel is a must-watch. Whether you watch it for the powerful performances or the gripping real-life inspiration, this film is sure to leave an impact.
Image Credit: Geetha Arts | Source: Instagram.
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