'HIT 3' X reviews out: Netizens call Nani's comeback 'gory but watchable'

Time of India

01-05-2025

Telugu star
Nani
made a strong comeback with
HIT: The Third Case
, which premiered in cinemas this Thursday. This latest addition to the HIT universe is helmed by writer-director
Sailesh Kolanu
and serves as the third chapter in the critically acclaimed
crime thriller
series. The film sees Nani step into the rugged shoes of SP Arjun Sarkaar, a no-nonsense police officer known for his unwavering dedication and sharp investigative skills.
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The film generated buzz among fans of Tollywood, die-hard Nani followers, and crime drama enthusiasts. In Andhra Pradesh, moviegoers even paid a premium to attend special early screenings. These exclusive shows kicked off as early as 1 PM, creating a festival-like atmosphere. In an interesting twist, actress Srinidhi Shetty, who plays a crucial role in the film, surprised fans by joining them for a screening in Texas, USA.
Those who managed to grab tickets wasted no time sharing their excitement on social media platforms. Early viewers praised the film's intensity and engaging plot, which begins on a disturbing note with the kidnapping of a nine-month-old baby. This chilling incident immediately sets the stage for a suspense-filled narrative, full of emotional tension and high-stakes action. As the case unfolds, the film immerses the audience in a complex web of clues, emotional trauma, and the relentless pursuit of justice, all of which are trademarks of the HIT series.
One X comment praised the movie for its performances but pointed out that the second half of the film was inspired by 'Squid Game'.
'#Hit3 is a gripping action crime thriller with moments of brilliance. The pre-interval shift ramps up engagement, leading into a second half inspired by Squid Game, packed with cinematic highs, especially in the pre-climax and climax. Stellar production values and cinematography elevate the experience. Nani delivers a powerhouse performance, anchoring the film with intensity in a boldly violent, profanity-laced role, making it clear this isn't for kids or families. Despite the slow pace and forgettable songs, Nani and the film's standout moments make it a solid watch…' Read the comment.
— Trend_Matrix (@Trend_Matrix)
Another reviewer said that the movie was 'gory but watchable.'
— chandler999999 (@chandler999999)
'In the first half, everything except the love track works well with a decent interval. The second half goes in a completely different direction it wasn't too bad, it wasn't too good, but it was gory and somewhat watchable…' Read the comment.
About 'HIT 3'
The storyline kicks off with a harrowing sequence—the abduction of a nine-month-old girl—immediately setting the tone for a grim and emotionally charged thriller. What follows is a gripping pursuit filled with gritty action and emotional undercurrents, capturing the essence of the HIT franchise's signature investigative depth.
A Power-Packed Cast and Crew
Nani is joined by Srinidhi Shetty, who plays Mrudula—a character that lends emotional depth and resilience to the storyline. The ensemble cast also features Surya Srinivas, Adil Pala, Brahmaji, Rao Ramesh, and Maganti Srinath in crucial roles. Adding to the excitement, Adivi Sesh—who previously headlined HIT: The Second Case—is rumored to appear in a cameo, hinting at deeper connections between the three installments.
The film's technical team further enhances its appeal. Cinematographer Sanu John Varghese crafts gritty and realistic visuals, while editor Karthika Srinivas ensures the narrative remains tight and engaging. Composer Mickey J. Meyer contributes a stirring score that heightens the emotional impact of the story.
Production Journey and OTT Strategy
Filming began in September 2024, with the crew traveling to Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, and even the dramatic landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir. Production wrapped up in March 2025, resulting in a runtime of 2 hours and 37 minutes. Due to its intense portrayal of violence and psychological themes, the film has been awarded an 'A' certificate.
Produced under the Wall Poster Cinema banner by Nani and Prashanti Tipirneni, the movie will have a digital release on Netflix following its theatrical run. It will stream in Telugu and be available in dubbed versions across five Indian languages, making it widely accessible across the country.
A Expanding Cinematic Landscape
What began with HIT: The First Case (2020) starring Vishwak Sen, and expanded through HIT: The Second Case (2022) with Adivi Sesh, has now grown into a larger crime-solving universe. HIT: The Third Case not only introduces new characters and storylines but also lays the groundwork for future crossovers, weaving a richer narrative tapestry within the franchise.