Ranabaali Twitter review: Is Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s Telugu period action film 'worth watching' or 'dull first half'? Netizens react

The wait is over. Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s Ranabaali hit theatres on October 16, bringing the actors together on screen once again. The Telugu period action drama has drawn attention as their first film together following their reported marriage in February 2026. Ahead of the release, the makers also clarified that ticket prices would not be increased in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. With audiences attending the first-day, first shows, early reactions to the film have started appearing on X (formerly Twitter), and the verdict so far is mixed.

Ranabaali Twitter review: What are netizens saying?

Several viewers have criticised the film’s pacing, describing the screenplay as slow and the narration as tiring. One user called Ranabaali a sincere attempt to tell a story based on real events but felt that the execution failed to hold attention. The viewer praised the production design and acknowledged Vijay’s effort, but said the film lacked the emotional connection needed for its subject. The user ultimately described it as a boring watch.






Another viewer was more critical, giving the film a rating of 1 out of 5. The user complained that both halves were "dull and that the nearly three-hour runtime tested their patience". The film’s background score also came under fire, with the viewer expressing disappointment over the music and calling the story familiar.



Not all early reactions were negative, however. One viewer praised director Rahul Sankrityan’s storytelling and his handling of the characters and emotions, giving the film 3.5 out of 5.



"The way he handled the emotions, characters, and every scene shows his dedication and passion for cinema."

Vijay Deverakonda and Rashmika Mandanna’s performances get mixed reactions

Vijay Deverakonda’s performance has received a mixed response from viewers. While some acknowledged the effort he put into the role, others felt that the writing and characterisation did not make the most of his performance.

One viewer described the film as a missed opportunity, suggesting that a stronger screenplay could have helped the actor’s work stand out.


Rashmika Mandanna’s portions, meanwhile, emerged as one of the positives in some reactions. A viewer who found the second half tiresome said her presence offered some relief. Another user also highlighted the Jayamma track as a positive aspect of the film.

"#Ranabaali – Review Decent 1st half, dragged 2nd half. Cinema had the potential to be a solid period drama, but the execution could’ve been much better. A Crisp screenplay would’ve made a huge difference. Main bokka music directors aa. Come back stronger VD."


The music by Ajay–Atul has been another point of criticism. Some viewers felt the background score did little to elevate key scenes, while others described it as a major letdown. One reaction suggested that the film’s concept and story had potential, but that the music failed to make several scenes more impactful.

What is Ranabaali about? Cast, story and release details

Set against a historical backdrop spanning 1854 to 1878, Ranabaali is positioned as a period action drama centred on resistance and action. Directed by Rahul Sankrityan, the film brings Vijay and Rashmika together for their third collaboration after Geetha Govindam and Dear Comrade.



The film has generated interest because of the lead pair’s popularity and their earlier collaborations. Their return to the screen together has been one of the major talking points ahead of the release.

The makers also clarified before the theatrical release that ticket prices would remain unchanged in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Based on the initial reactions on X, Ranabaali has received a divided response. While some viewers have praised the director’s intentions, the performances and production design, others have raised concerns about the pacing, lengthy runtime and background score.