The roar of a Power Star entry is unlike any other, and for OG (They Call Him OG), the anticipation was seismic. Directed by Sujeeth (of Saaho fame) and produced by DVV Danayya, this high-octane gangster action drama promised fans a full-fledged cinematic festival—a blend of fierce action, drama, and the signature Mass Entertainer thrills that define Pawan Kalyan’s filmography. The film's grand release brought the actor back to the big screen in a ruthless, stylish avatar, set against a backdrop of gang wars in Mumbai. But with sky-high expectations—some even surpassing pre-release buzz for other major films—did OG deliver the knockout punch fans were hoping for?

Technical Firepower: Style Over Substance?

From the moment the iconic ramp title card hit the screen, OG was designed for spectacle. Director Sujeeth, a self-proclaimed fan of Pawan Kalyan, succeeds brilliantly in one area: presenting the star with unmatched swagger. Early reviews are unanimous in their praise for the actor's intense screen presence, with many calling it a "one-man show." The stylish action sequences, especially the pre-interval and police station blocks, have been hailed as "pure goosebumps" moments, showcasing a raw, commanding version of the actor not seen in recent years.

Fueling this visual feast is the film's technical might. Cinematography by Ravi K. Chandran brings a slick, atmospheric quality to the world of OG, while Thaman’s pulsating background score acts as the film’s heartbeat. His music, particularly the now-famous "Fire Storm" track, elevates every mass moment, transforming an ordinary scene into a celebration. The sheer impact of the BGM has been highlighted by fans and critics alike as one of the film's biggest strengths.

The Ojas Gambhira vs. Omi Bhau Dynamic

OG is fundamentally a story of two formidable forces: Pawan Kalyan as the titular gangster Ojas Gambhira and Emraan Hashmi making a powerful Telugu debut as the menacing antagonist, Omi Bhau. Hashmi's casting as the villain proved to be an instant highlight, with many praising his calm, sharp, and commanding performance—calling him the perfect foil to match Pawan Kalyan's aura.

However, the narrative holding this star-studded clash together has drawn a divided response. While the first half is largely deemed a satisfactory setup, complete with thrilling intro and interval blocks, some critiques point out that the film suffers from a lack of a strong, unique emotional core. The plot, a tale of a gangster returning after a ten-year disappearance to settle old scores, is routine. Critics noted pacing issues, particularly in the second half, with the screenplay at times feeling "half-baked" and lacking the required emotional connection to fully immerse the audience.

A ‘Fest Mode’ for Fans, A Mixed Bag for Neutrals

The verdict on OG clearly splits along audience lines. For the dedicated Pawan Kalyan fanbase, the movie is an undeniable victory. The high-octane moments, the "myth-like portrayal" of their hero, and the sheer mass energy in the theatre justify the pre-release frenzy. The box office numbers, with the film setting records in premiere collections, strongly support this celebratory mood.

For neutral audiences, the picture is more mixed. OG is celebrated as a technically strong and stylish action entertainer that brings out the best in the Power Star’s on-screen presence. Yet, it is also acknowledged that the film’s uneven screenplay and moments of slow pacing keep it from achieving widespread critical acclaim.

Ultimately, Sujeeth’s OG is a resounding "love letter" from a director to his favourite hero. It is a film that maximizes Pawan Kalyan's swag and spectacle, delivering the full meal of mass thrills promised, even if the storytelling doesn't quite match the elevation of its technical brilliance and star power. The Power Star is undoubtedly back, ruling the screen in the manner only he can, turning every theatre into a "wild celebration."
Read Also: Pawan Kalyan’s OG Sets Theatres Ablaze: Title Card Euphoria, Goosebumps Galore, and Divided Reviews
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