The much-anticipated fantasy comedy film 'The Rajasaab', starring pan-Indian superstar Prabhas, has landed with a disappointing thud, garnering a lukewarm critical reception. The film, which released with significant hype, has been rated a mere 2 out of 5 stars (★★☆☆☆), according to a review published on 10 January 2026. Directed by Maruthi, the movie features a notable ensemble cast but struggles to deliver a coherent and engaging cinematic experience.
A Star-Studded Cast Fails to Elevate a Weak Narrative
On paper, The Rajasaab boasts an impressive lineup. The film is headlined by the magnetic Prabhas, supported by veteran actors like Zarina Wahab and Sanjay Dutt, alongside the talented Malavika Mohanan. Despite this powerful combination of established and rising stars, the film's core weakness lies in its execution. The review points out that while the initial plot premise seemed interesting and held promise for a unique blend of fantasy and humor, the final product fails to capitalise on its potential.
The central criticism levelled against the film is its messy and unfocused narrative. The story, which should have been a tight, entertaining ride, is described as 'all over the place'. This lack of a clear, compelling storyline makes it difficult for the audience to stay invested in the characters or the unfolding events, no matter how charismatic the lead actor might be.
Direction and Tone: A Recipe for Cringe?
Director Maruthi, known for his work in specific comedic genres, appears to have missed the mark in balancing the tone for this larger-than-life fantasy project. The review explicitly uses terms like 'loud and cringey' to describe the film's overall vibe. This suggests that the comedy elements may feel forced, over-the-top, and ultimately fail to resonate with viewers, leading to moments of discomfort rather than genuine laughter.
The mismatch between the director's style and the scale of a Prabhas-led film seems to be a significant factor in the project's shortcomings. The fantasy aspects, which require a certain visual grandeur and narrative conviction, reportedly clash with the attempted comedic beats, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience that neither fully commits to spectacle nor to smart humor.
Box Office Prospects and Audience Reception
With a 2-star rating published right at the time of its release, The Rajasaab faces an uphill battle at the box office. For a star of Prabhas's magnitude, whose films are typically event cinema, such early negative critical feedback can dampen audience enthusiasm. While his dedicated fan base might still flock to theatres for the initial days, the word-of-mouth stemming from reviews like this one could severely impact its long-term sustainability.
The film's performance will be a crucial test, coming after a series of big-budget releases in the Indian film industry. It highlights the growing audience discernment, where star power alone is no longer a guarantee of success. Moviegoers are increasingly seeking strong scripts and directorial vision, elements that this review finds lacking in The Rajasaab.
In conclusion, 'The Rajasaab' (2025) stands as a cautionary tale of how even the most promising concepts and star-studded casts can falter without a sharp, well-executed narrative. The film, directed by Maruthi and featuring Prabhas, Sanjay Dutt, Zarina Wahab, and Malavika Mohanan, serves as a reminder that in today's cinematic landscape, substance must seamlessly blend with style to create a truly memorable film.
