Introduction
"Maalik," the 2025 Hindi-language action thriller directed by Pulkit, hit theaters on July 11, 2025, promising a raw and intense dive into the underworld of 1980s Allahabad. Starring Rajkummar Rao in the titular role, alongside Manushi Chhillar, Huma Qureshi, Prosenjit Chatterjee, and Saurabh Shukla, the film aimed to deliver a gripping tale of ambition, power, and betrayal. With a backdrop of social issues and high-octane action, "Maalik" garnered significant buzz but has received mixed reviews. This blog explores the film’s plot, performances, strengths, and shortcomings, offering a fresh perspective on its impact.
Plot Overview
Set in the gritty landscape of 1980s Uttar Pradesh, "Maalik" follows Deepak, aka Maalik (Rajkummar Rao), a man driven by ambition to rise through the ranks of the criminal underworld. The story traces his journey from a small-time operator to a formidable gangster, navigating a world of illegal businesses, gang wars, and political intrigue. Supported by his mentor, Minister Shankar Singh (Saurabh Shukla), Maalik’s rise is meteoric but fraught with challenges. His actions, including the killing of a cop, draw the attention of a ruthless SP, Prabhu Das (Prosenjit Chatterjee), who is tasked with bringing him down. Amidst this chaos, a romantic subplot with Vidya (Manushi Chhillar) adds emotional layers, though not always seamlessly. The narrative tackles themes of class struggle, corruption, and loyalty, aiming to blend social commentary with visceral action.
Performances That Shine
Rajkummar Rao delivers a standout performance as Maalik, shedding his typical small-town hero image for a fierce, ruthless gangster. His ability to convey intensity and vulnerability makes Maalik a compelling character, even when the script falters. Critics have praised Rao’s physical transformation and commanding screen presence, with many calling it one of his most intense roles yet. Prosenjit Chatterjee as SP Prabhu Das brings gravitas, though reviews note his character lacks depth due to weak writing. Saurabh Shukla and Swanand Kirkire offer solid support, but their roles suffer from underdeveloped motivations. Manushi Chhillar, as Vidya, is adequate but struggles to leave a lasting impression, with the romantic track often feeling forced. Huma Qureshi’s role as Mallika, while intriguing, is underutilized, leaving audiences wanting more.
Strengths of Maalik
The film’s strengths lie in its ambitious vision and technical execution. The cinematography by Anuj Rakesh Dhawan captures the raw, chaotic essence of 1980s Allahabad, with realistic visuals that enhance the gritty atmosphere. The action sequences, choreographed by Vikram Dahiya, are a highlight, delivering high-energy moments that cater to mass audiences. Ketan Sodha’s background score elevates key scenes, adding intensity to the drama. Rao’s performance is undoubtedly the film’s backbone, carrying even the weaker moments with his conviction. The exploration of social issues, such as class disparity and corruption, adds a layer of relevance, though it’s not always woven seamlessly into the narrative.
Where Maalik Falls Short
Despite its promise, "Maalik" struggles with inconsistent writing and pacing. The screenplay, co-written by Pulkit and Jyotsana Nath, follows a familiar gangster movie template, drawing comparisons to films like Vaastav and Khakee: The Bihar Chapter. Critics have noted a lack of originality, with clichés and predictable plot points undermining the story’s potential. The second half drags, particularly due to the romantic subplot, which disrupts the momentum of the core conflict. The climax, while action-packed, feels underwhelming and fails to deliver the emotional payoff expected from a gangster epic. Additionally, the film’s stellar supporting cast is underused, with characters like those of Saurabh Shukla and Prosenjit Chatterjee lacking the depth needed to make their rivalries with Maalik truly compelling.
Music and Soundtrack
The soundtrack, composed by Sachin Sanghvi and Jigar Saraiya with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, is a mixed bag. The first single, "Naamumkin," released on June 10, 2025, captures the softer side of Maalik’s character, blending romance with emotional depth. "Dil Thaam Ke," released on June 20, 2025, adds to the film’s intensity, while the title track, "Raaj Karega Maalik," set for release on July 4, 2025, has been praised for its energy but criticized for not being fully integrated into the film. Some songs, including an item number, feel misplaced and disrupt the narrative flow, a common critique in reviews.
Reception and Box Office
"Maalik" has received mixed reviews, with ratings ranging from 1.5 to 4 out of 5 stars. Firstpost gave it 3.5 stars, praising the performances and action but noting the formulaic narrative. India TV awarded 3 stars, lauding the direction and Rao’s acting but criticizing the film’s length and weak supporting roles. Bollywood Hungama gave a harsher 2 stars, calling the story clichéd, while Subhash K. Jha of News 24 gave 4 stars, appreciating its edge-of-the-seat quality. Audience reactions on X reflect this divide, with some calling Rao’s performance a “masterclass” and others labeling the film a “disaster of epic proportions” due to its predictable plot. Box office estimates suggest a slow start, with opening day collections between Rs 1.5 to 2.5 crore, facing competition from Superman and Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan.
Should You Watch It?
"Maalik" is a film that promises much but delivers only partially. If you’re a fan of Rajkummar Rao or enjoy gritty gangster dramas, it’s worth a watch for his powerhouse performance and the well-executed action sequences. However, those expecting a fresh take on the genre or a tightly woven narrative may find it lacking. The film’s 152-minute runtime and uneven pacing might test your patience, but its raw energy and Rao’s transformative acting make it a decent one-time watch. Catch it in theaters for the big-screen action, or wait for its OTT release, rumored to be on Netflix, for a more relaxed viewing.
Conclusion
"Maalik" is a bold attempt to showcase Rajkummar Rao in a new avatar, and while it succeeds in parts, it doesn’t fully escape the trappings of the gangster genre. With a stronger screenplay and tighter editing, it could have been a standout. As it stands, it’s a film that entertains but doesn’t linger long in memory. For those intrigued by its themes of power and betrayal, it offers enough to justify a trip to the cinema, but don’t expect a game-changer.
