Kannada cinema's beloved star Kichcha Sudeep has made his grand return to the big screen this festive season. Following the success of his previous Christmas release 'Max', the actor is back with another high-octane offering, the action thriller 'Mark', which hit theatres worldwide on Christmas Day, 2025. As fans thronged to the first-day-first-show screenings, social media platforms became the arena for the initial verdict, presenting a picture of praise for the star's charisma but criticism for a familiar plot.
Audience Applause for Sudeep's Style and Thrilling Pace
The early hours of the release saw a wave of positive reactions from eager fans. Many viewers took to X (formerly Twitter) to highlight the film's strengths. One reviewer noted a "pretty good first half", acknowledging a few predictable moments but heaping praise on Sudeep's commanding screen presence. The background score by composer B. Ajaneesh Loknath was singled out as "absolutely top-notch", adding significant depth to the cinematic experience.
Another major point of appreciation was Sudeep's stylish introductory dance sequence, which set the tone for his character. The well-choreographed action blocks were credited for maintaining a strong and racy pace throughout the first half. Fans also found intrigue in the face-off between Sudeep and co-star Vikrant, whose mysterious character adds a layer of suspense. A major sequence in the film, which reportedly reflects on a recent political leader's demise in Tamil Nadu and its consequences, was also highlighted as a gripping plot point.
Criticism Emerges Over Routine Storyline
However, as more viewers completed the film, a contrasting narrative began to surface. A significant section of the audience expressed disappointment, calling out the film for its routine and predictable storyline. One netizen drew a direct comparison to Sudeep's earlier film, stating, "After making Max, there was no need to make another Max," and gave the film a rating of 2.5 out of 5.
The criticism intensified regarding the second half, with some viewers labeling it a letdown. Comments pointed to a lack of novelty, with one user stating the film dives straight into predictable territory after a promising start. The verdict from this segment was harsh, with some calling it a "boring routine story" not suited for family audiences. Another fan expressed disappointment on behalf of the lead actor, noting, "Honestly, Sudeep sir deserved a better film," and criticized the screenplay for lacking grip.
Plot, Cast, and Final Verdict
In 'Mark', Kichcha Sudeep plays a suspended officer embroiled in a desperate race against time. His mission is to save kidnapped children while battling a web of corrupt politicians and powerful adversaries. The film boasts a strong supporting cast including Naveen Chandra, Yogi Babu, Shine Tom Chacko, Guru Somasundaram, Vikranth, and Roshni Prakash, among others.
The overall initial reception paints a mixed picture. While Sudeep's powerful performance, Ajaneesh Loknath's brilliant music, and the slickly executed action sequences have won hearts, the film struggles to win over critics of its conventional narrative framework. As the Christmas weekend progresses, it remains to be seen whether the star's massive fan following and the film's entertainment quotient will overpower the criticisms of its storyline.
