They Call Him OG Movie Review (Original Gangster)

Cast – Pawan Kalyan, Emraan Hashmi, Arjun Das, Priyanka Mohan, Sriya Reddy, Prakash Raj, Subhalekha Sudhakar, Sudev Nair, Rahul Ravindran, Harish Uthaman, Abhimanyu Singh, Saurav Lokesh, and others.
Directors – Sujeeth
Producers – D.V.V. Danayya
Banner – DVV Entertainment
Music – Thaman S
Runtime – 2 hours 35 minutes
Genre – Action, Drama
Release Date – 25 September 2025

Background
OG arrives with sky-high expectations, riding on the charisma of Pawan Kalyan and the stylish vision of director Sujeeth. The film was marketed as a gangster saga with a pan-Indian appeal, blending mass elements with sleek visuals. From its teaser to its trailer, the buzz was electric, especially among fans who were eager to see Pawan in a rugged avatar. The production team spared no expense, shooting across multiple locations and crafting a visual palette that screams grandeur. With Emraan Hashmi making his Telugu debut and Priyanka Arul Mohan adding freshness, the casting choices were bold. Thaman’s music added to the pre-release hype, with background scores teased in promos. The film promised a layered narrative, exploring themes of vengeance, legacy, and redemption. Sujeeth, known for his flair in stylish action, aimed to deliver a cinematic experience that could rival Bollywood thrillers. The anticipation was further fueled by the film’s positioning as a comeback vehicle for Pawan, post his political engagements. OG was expected to redefine the gangster genre in Telugu cinema, offering both emotional depth and adrenaline-pumping sequences.

Plot
OG follows the journey of Ojas Gambhir, a feared gangster who returns to Mumbai after years of exile. His re-entry into the underworld sets off a chain of events that unravel past betrayals and hidden truths. Emraan Hashmi plays a rival don whose ideology clashes with Ojas, leading to a battle of minds and muscle. Priyanka’s character brings emotional grounding, serving as a reminder of Ojas’s lost humanity. The narrative oscillates between past and present, revealing how Ojas became the man he is. Political undertones and family dynamics add layers to the story. The climax builds toward a moral reckoning, where Ojas must choose between vengeance and redemption. The film ends on a note that hints at legacy and transformation.

Artists Performances
Pawan Kalyan delivers a commanding performance, embodying Ojas with intensity and restraint. His screen presence elevates even the most mundane scenes. Emraan Hashmi impresses with his Telugu debut, bringing menace and charm to his antagonist role. Priyanka Arul Mohan adds emotional depth, though her character could have been better fleshed out. Prakash Raj, in a brief role, adds gravitas and credibility. The supporting cast, including seasoned character actors, lend authenticity to the gangster world. Dialogues written for Pawan are punchy and tailored to his persona. Emraan’s scenes are well-crafted, giving him space to shine. Priyanka’s chemistry with Pawan is subtle but effective. The ensemble cast works well together, creating a believable underworld ecosystem. Cameos are used sparingly but effectively.

Technicalities
Sujeeth’s direction is stylish, with a strong focus on visual storytelling. Cinematography by Ravi K Chandran is top-notch, capturing Mumbai’s grit and grandeur. Thaman’s background score amplifies tension and emotion, though the songs are forgettable. Editing is crisp in the first half but falters slightly in the second. Action choreography is slick, with well-executed set pieces. Production design reflects the scale and ambition of the film. Costume design complements character arcs, especially Ojas’s transformation. Sound design adds immersive layers to key sequences. VFX is used judiciously, enhancing rather than distracting. The film’s pacing is uneven, but the technical finesse keeps it engaging.

Positives

• Pawan Kalyan’s powerful screen presence and performance
• Stylish direction and cinematography that elevate the narrative
• Emraan Hashmi’s impactful debut in Telugu cinema
• Engaging first half with strong buildup and character introductions

Negatives

• Weak emotional payoff in the second half
• Underdeveloped female lead and side characters
• Predictable climax that lacks surprise or innovation

Analysis
OG opens with a bang, introducing Ojas Gambhir in a stylized sequence that sets the tone for the film. The first half is tightly packed with action, drama, and character buildup. Pawan’s portrayal of a brooding gangster is layered, and his dialogues resonate with fans. Emraan Hashmi’s entry adds intrigue, and his philosophical take on crime contrasts well with Ojas’s brute force. Priyanka’s character, though emotionally relevant, doesn’t get enough screen time to leave a lasting impact. The flashback sequences are well-integrated, revealing Ojas’s motivations and past trauma. Sujeeth’s direction shines in action blocks, especially the dockyard fight and the rain-soaked chase. The cinematography captures Mumbai’s chaos and beauty, adding texture to the narrative. Thaman’s score heightens the drama, though the songs feel like speed bumps in the flow. The second half, however, loses steam. The emotional arc feels rushed, and the climax lacks the punch needed for a gangster epic. The philosophical musings between Ojas and his rival feel forced, diluting the tension. Supporting characters, while well-acted, don’t get meaningful arcs. The film tries to balance mass appeal with depth but leans too heavily on style. The editing could have been tighter, especially in the latter half where pacing issues emerge. Despite these flaws, OG remains watchable due to its performances and technical brilliance. The film’s ambition is evident, but its execution falls short of greatness. It’s a visual treat with moments of brilliance, but not a complete package. Fans of Pawan will find enough to cheer, while others may feel the emotional void. The film ends with a hint of legacy, suggesting a possible sequel or spin-off. OG is a bold attempt that partially succeeds, offering more style than substance. It’s a film that entertains but doesn’t linger. The gangster genre gets a facelift, but the soul remains elusive. Sujeeth proves his flair for visuals but needs stronger writing to match. OG is a mixed bag—stylish, ambitious, but emotionally undercooked. It’s a film that will divide audiences, with fans loving the swag and critics pointing out the gaps. Ultimately, OG is a celebration of Pawan’s aura, wrapped in a glossy package. It’s not a classic, but it’s not a disaster either. The film’s legacy will depend on how audiences embrace its flaws and strengths.

Final verdict :- OG dazzles with style, but stumbles in depth
Rating :- 3/5