Mirai Review – A Dazzling Fantasy That Elevates Telugu Cinema
Rating: (3.5☆/5)
Every once in a while, a film arrives that dares to stretch the boundaries of Telugu cinema, blending myth with modern storytelling in a way that feels fresh and cinematic. Karthik Gattamneni’s Mirai is one such film an ambitious fantasy adventure that thrills with its scale, captivates with its visuals, and shines with performances that leave a lasting impact.
At its core, Mirai reimagines the legend of Emperor Ashoka’s nine books of immortality, weaving ancient wisdom into a battle of destiny unfolding in the present day. This fusion of mythology and contemporary storytelling is not only imaginative but also executed with conviction. Gattamneni, doubling up as director and cinematographer, deserves applause for creating a cinematic universe that feels both rooted in tradition and alive with modern spectacle.
The performances play a huge role in making Mirai work. Teja Sajja, fresh from the success of Hanu-Man, once again proves why he is the rising face of Telugu cinema. His portrayal of Vedha Prajapathi is endearing and inspiring, capturing both the charm of a carefree youth and the grit of a reluctant hero who must rise to a grand destiny. His transformation feels natural, and his energy anchors the film.
Manchu Manoj, as the formidable Mahabir Lama, makes a triumphant return to the screen. His menacing presence, commanding dialogue delivery, and physicality bring real weight to the film’s conflict. He is not just a villain for the sake of it, he embodies the kind of larger-than-life antagonist that makes the hero’s journey even more compelling. Shriya Saran, in a role that could easily have been ornamental, delivers one of her most graceful performances in recent times. Her Ambica is dignified, soulful, and crucial to the story’s emotional resonance.
Technically, Mirai is a triumph. The visual effects are impressive and seamlessly integrated, particularly in sequences involving mythological elements like Lord Rama and the Sampati bird. The action choreography, from a thrilling train chase to the grand battle at Siddha Kshetram, is staged with flair and precision. Gowra Hari’s background score elevates the drama, while Sreekar Prasad’s crisp editing ensures the film moves at a steady, engaging pace.
Yes, the film has familiar beats in its first half, and certain characters could have been fleshed out further. But these are minor blemishes in an otherwise rewarding experience. The sheer visual grandeur, the emotional highs, and the conviction with which the story is told make Mirai a cinematic spectacle.
Ultimately, Mirai is more than just a film, it is an event. It proves that Telugu cinema can take bold leaps into fantasy while retaining its heart. With Teja Sajja strengthening his star power, Manchu Manoj roaring back in style, and Gattamneni delivering on scale and storytelling, Mirai emerges as one of the most memorable big-screen adventures of the year.
| Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|
| Dazzling visuals & seamless VFX | Predictable beats in the first half |
| Strong performances (Teja, Manoj, Shriya) | Some characters underdeveloped |
| Engaging action sequences | Uneven pacing in parts |
| Convincing myth–modern fusion | A few subplots lack depth |
Verdict
Mirai dazzles with its visuals, thrills with its performances, and uplifts with its imagination. Despite a few familiar tropes, it stands tall as a grand Telugu fantasy adventure that deserves to be experienced on the biggest screen possible.
