September 25, 2025: The much-anticipated gangster drama They Call Him OG, starring Pawan Kalyan and marking Emraan Hashmi’s Telugu debut, premiered on September 25 to a wave of social media buzz and divided opinions. Directed by Sujeeth, the film blends stylized action with a revenge-driven narrative, but early viewers are split on its execution.
Initial reactions from paid previews and opening-day audiences highlight Pawan Kalyan’s commanding presence and Thaman’s impactful score as key strengths. They Call Him OG’s technical polish, particularly in its action choreography and sound design, has earned praise from fans and industry insiders alike.
Producer Naga Vamsi described the film as “packed with madness,” while several viewers on social platforms noted that the intro sequence and background music elevate the cinematic experience.
However, the narrative structure has drawn criticism. Many found the first half sluggish, with predictable character setups and a lack of emotional depth. The second half, while more action-heavy, was described by some as formulaic and over-reliant on genre clichés.
Emraan Hashmi Makes His Mark in the OG, with superlative performance
Emraan Hashmi’s portrayal of crime lord Omi Bhau has emerged as a surprise highlight. His performance, marked by intensity and restraint, has been called “stylish” and “menacing,” with several viewers referring to him as the film’s “scene-stealer.” His role adds weight to the climax, which features tightly executed action sequences and strong visual storytelling.
Audience Sentiment: Divided but Engaged
While some fans celebrated the film as a return to form for Pawan Kalyan, others expressed disappointment over the screenplay’s lack of originality. Comments ranged from “technically brilliant” to “a missed opportunity,” with ratings varying from 1 to 4 out of 5.
The film’s reliance on familiar gangster tropes, revenge arcs, dramatic monologues, and stylized violence, has led to mixed reviews, especially among viewers expecting a more nuanced narrative.
Plot
They Call Him OG follows Ojas Gambheera (Pawan Kalyan), a former mobster who resurfaces in Mumbai after a decade to confront his rival, Omi Bhau (Emraan Hashmi). The film features an ensemble cast including Priyanka Mohan, Arjun Das, Prakash Raj, Rao Ramesh, Shriya Reddy, and Subhaleka Sudhakar.