Directed by Karthik Gattamneni, Mirai is a Telugu-language fantasy adventure starring Teja Sajja as the heroic Vedha, who is destined to wield a powerful staff and protect nine ancient scriptures from evil forces. Manchu Manoj plays the menacing antagonist “Black Sword.” The film, produced under a budget around ₹60 crore, released theatrically on 12 September 2025 in multiple languages.
What Works
- Visuals and World-Building: Critics agree that Mirai’s greatest strength lies in its rich visual effects, set design, and immersive scope. The fantasy universe—of mystic scriptures, battlefields, and divine elements—is almost always compelling.
- Teja Sajja’s Performance: After the success of HanuMan, Teja steps into a larger, grander role and carries much of the film’s weight. He demonstrates confidence in action sequences and emotional beats.
- Villainous Impact: Manchu Manoj, as the antagonist, receives high praise his character “Black Sword” brings an intensity that elevates many of the conflict-scenes. His presence in the climax is often highlighted as a major plus.
What Doesn’t Fully Land
- First Half Pacing & Exposition: Several reviews point out that the film takes time to pick up; the buildup, setup, mythological context etc., though interesting, can feel slow or heavy until the second half.
- Narrative Anchoring vs. Spectacle: While Mirai excels at spectacle and imagination, critics mention that in parts the story leans on formulaic fantasy tropes and sometimes underplays character development or emotional plausibility.
Takeaway
Mirai is a visually striking fantasy action adventure. It delivers enjoyable drama, intense hero-vs-villain dynamics, and an impressive climax. But its length (runtime ~169 mins), pacing in the beginning, and occasional narrative lapses mean it’s not without flaws. For audiences seeking a grand cinematic escape, it’s likely to satisfy; those hoping for tighter storytelling may feel only somewhat fulfilled.
Final Rating / Suggested Audience
- Rating: 3.5 / 5
- Who Will Like It: Fans of fantasy, mythology, large-scale visuals, and action.
- What to Expect: A solid theatrical experience especially for those who enjoy spectacle; go in with patience for the setup.
