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Rajkummar Rao is back on the big screen with ‘Maalik’, an intense crime thriller that hit cinemas today, 11 July 2025. After his appearance earlier this year in ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’, fans were eagerly waiting to see the actor in a completely different avatar — and by the look of the early reviews, he does not disappoint.Directed by Pulkit, ‘Maalik’ follows the rise of a small-time UP criminal who builds his empire through fear, wit, and ruthless ambition. The film also stars Manushi Chhillar, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Saurabh Shukla, Huma Qureshi, Anshumaan Pushkar and Swanand Kirkire in pivotal roles.Reviews pour in on XFans have wasted no time in sharing their thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), and most are full of praise for Rajkummar’s performance. One user wrote, “#MaalikReview: The Decent Entertainment.
💥 RajkummarRao shines in and as #Maalik in the film, his performance is really electrifying. #ManushiChhillar looks beautiful and did a great job. First half is BOMBARDING but the second half lacks a bit in the screenplay and is okayish.
Rest of the cast #SaurabhSachdeva, #SaurabhShukla and #ProsenjitChatterjee adds a brilliant spark in the film.”
Another viewer highlighted how the film didn’t match their early guesses, saying, “First Half Of #Maalik...."Completely opposite of expectations... Maybe the second half will be better. Actors' performances were good. Full review coming soon..." #maalikreview”
Rajkummar’s gangster avatar leaves fans impressedRajkummar seems to have completely won over viewers with his intense performance as a gangster.
One user called it one of his best ever, posting, “#Maalik first review out now . The film is actually good with one of the finest performances by @RajkummarRao He gets in to role of a gangster deeply the BGM and taut screenplay add good value #ManushiChhillar is good too. Watch it.”
A never-seen-before side of RajkummarFans also couldn’t stop talking about seeing Rajkummar in such a dark, dreadful role. Another post captured this feeling perfectly, “Maalik movie review: Rajkummar Rao, Manushi Chhillar deliver terrific performance in the crime drama…The film is technically phenomenal and the director, writer, technicians deserve an applause for it. From engaging screenplay, whistle-worthy dialogues to perfect pacing, every aspect of this piece is prepped with keen detailing.
When it comes to performances, Rajkummar Rao steals the show in a never-seen-before avatar. While we have enjoyed seeing him as boy next door and in comic roles, his dreadful avatar in Maalik is enough to send chills down the spine.”
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