They Call Him OG, directed by Sujeeth, brings Pawan Kalyan back in a fierce gangster avatar that fans have long been waiting for. Packed with whistle-worthy moments, slick visuals, and Thaman’s thunderous score, the film delivers an adrenaline rush in parts. However, the predictable storyline and a dragging second half stop it from becoming a truly memorable action drama. Still, for fans, it’s a celebration of their star in full vintage form.
Story and Setting
Set against the underworld backdrop of Mumbai, the film follows Ojas Gambheera (Pawan Kalyan), a feared gangster who once walked away from the city after a life-changing incident. Years later, his return is inevitable when the ruthless Omi Bhau (Emraan Hashmi) and others threaten Satya Dada’s (Prakash Raj) empire and family. The story even ties back to a Japanese connection from OG’s past, adding a layer of intrigue, though not always effectively.
The narrative is built around OG’s comeback, his bond with Satya Dada, and his bloody confrontations with the Mumbai mafia. While the premise promises intensity, the screenplay leans heavily on familiar tropes and doesn’t offer much freshness beyond fan-service sequences.
Performances
Pawan Kalyan is the heart and soul of the film. His screen presence is electrifying, whether it’s his intense dialogues, katana-wielding fight scenes, or the police station sequence that becomes a highlight of the second half. This is a portrayal that fans will cherish, showcasing him in a mix of classy and mass style.
Emraan Hashmi, in his Telugu debut, brings menace and swagger but is restricted by a thinly written villain role. Priyanka Mohan has a graceful presence though her role is limited. Prakash Raj, Sriya Reddy, and Arjun Das add some weight, with Arjun’s flashback track leaving an impression. Still, most supporting characters don’t get enough depth to shine.
Technical Aspects
Technically, the film is mounted on a grand scale. Ravi K. Chandran and Manoj Paramahamsa’s cinematography makes Mumbai and the action set pieces look stunning, giving the film an international polish. Production values are lavish, and the action choreography is designed for big-screen impact.
But it is Thaman’s background score that truly elevates OG. His music pulses through every fight and intro scene, turning otherwise ordinary moments into mass spectacles. Editing, however, could have been tighter, especially in the second half where the pacing dips.
Verdict
They Call Him OG thrives on fan service, stylish presentation, and Pawan Kalyan’s undeniable aura. The first half is engaging, with explosive action blocks and whistle-worthy hero moments, but the second half struggles with predictability and uneven pacing. The film ultimately entertains but doesn’t leave a lasting mark beyond its theatrical highs.
For fans, it’s a treat to see Pawan Kalyan in a powerful avatar again. For others, it’s a stylish but flawed gangster drama that works in moments but falters in depth.
Bullseye Rating:★★★ (3/5 stars)
They Call Him OG is now playing in theatres.
