Maalik Movie Review: Rajkummar Rao Wins Big with Gritty Gangster Drama

Maalik Movie Review: Rajkummar Rao’s Fierce Transformation Grabs India’s Attention

The Rise of Maalik: A Gritty Tale That’s Stirring Up Buzz

Set in the turbulent streets of 1980s Prayagraj, Maalik is a gangster drama that’s making waves across India. Directed by Pulkit and starring Rajkummar Rao and Manushi Chhillar, the film explores the transformation of a common man into a feared underworld figure. With its theatrical release on July 11, 2025, Maalik has sparked intense debate, praise, and criticism—making it one of the most talked-about films of the week.

Rajkummar Rao’s Career-Best Performance

Rajkummar Rao’s portrayal of Deepak, aka Maalik, is being hailed as one of his most powerful roles to date. Critics and audiences alike have praised his emotional depth, intensity, and ability to embody a morally conflicted character. From vulnerability to ruthless ambition, Rao’s performance anchors the film and elevates its narrative.

Manushi Chhillar’s Surprising Turn

Manushi Chhillar, in her most emotionally demanding role yet, plays Maalik’s wife—a woman caught between loyalty and fear. While some critics found her performance sincere and evolving, others felt she was miscast in a role that demanded more gravitas.

Supporting Cast and Direction

The ensemble cast includes Prosenjit Chatterjee, Huma Qureshi, Anshumaan Pushkar, and Swanand Kirkire. Each brings nuance to the gritty world of Maalik, though some characters feel underutilized. Pulkit’s direction keeps the pace tight, especially in the second half, where action and tension escalate.

Why This Is Trending Right Now

Real-Time Momentum:

• Maalik released today, July 11, 2025, across India.

• Early reviews are flooding social media, with hashtags like #MaalikReview and #RajkummarRao trending.

• Despite modest advance bookings (only 6,500 tickets sold), strong word-of-mouth is driving interest.

• The film is being compared to Animal and Pushpa, though Rao clarified it’s a standalone story rooted in realism.

Google Trends Insight:

• Searches for “Maalik movie review” spiked 300% in the last 12 hours.

• Regional interest is highest in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra.

Audience Reactions: Mixed but Passionate

Positive Feedback:

• "Absolute firecracker… Rao delivers full justice to every second."

• "From farmer’s son to feared mafia kingpin… gritty ride through 1990s Allahabad."

Negative Criticism:

• "Messy screenplay… lifted scenes from other gangster films."

• "Rajkummar Rao’s mannerisms feel like mimicry."

Box Office Outlook:

• Opening day collections expected between ₹1.5–₹2.5 crore.

• Competing with Superman and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Maalik faces stiff multiplex competition.

FAQs

Q: Is Maalik based on a true story? No, it’s a fictional narrative inspired by the socio-political landscape of 1980s Uttar Pradesh.

Q: What makes Rajkummar Rao’s performance stand out? His ability to portray layered emotions—from desperation to dominance—makes his character compelling.

Q: Is Maalik suitable for family viewing? Due to its intense violence and mature themes, it’s best suited for adult audiences.

Q: How long is the movie? The runtime is 2 hours and 29 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Maalik may not reinvent the gangster genre, but it delivers a raw, emotionally charged experience. Rajkummar Rao’s performance alone makes it worth watching. Whether you’re drawn to gritty crime dramas or powerful character arcs, Maalik offers a cinematic journey that’s both haunting and thought-provoking.

Stay tuned as box office numbers roll in and the buzz continues to build. Will Maalik rise to cult status or fade under competition? For now, it’s the film everyone’s talking about.