Review: Rao Bahadur: Imperfect But Honest

 

Movie: Rao Bahadur
Rating: 2.75/5

Cast: Satyadev, Vikas Muppala, Deepa Thomas, Venkatesh Maha, Bala Parasuraman, and others

Director: Venkatesh Maha

Produced By: A+S Movies, Srichakraas Entertainments, Mahayana Motion Pictures. Better Invest Media Vision Fund

Release Date: 03-07-2026

Story:

Set in 1991, Bhuvanam Ramappa Rao Bahadur, popularly known as Ramappa (Satyadev), belongs to a royal family and is suffering from liver cancer. Despite his condition, he continues to survive, seemingly defying medical expectations. One day, he opens up to his close friend and doctor, Achari (Pratik Gandhi), about a long-standing doubt that has haunted him for years. What is this mystery? Is it connected to the incidents from Ramappa's past? The answers to these questions unfold as the story progresses.

Performances:

Satyadev delivers a convincing and engaging performance in the lead role, carrying the film with ease. Vikas Muppala, Deepa Thomas, Venkatesh Maha, Bala Parasuraman, and the rest of the cast also perform well and suit their respective characters.

What Works:

Director Venkatesh Maha attempts to explore the idea that suspicion can become a destructive force while subtly highlighting social inequalities through dark comedy.

Some of the conversations between Satyadev and Vikas Muppala in the first half are engaging. The second half is stronger, with the police investigation episodes, Kusuma's flashback, and several well-written comedy sequences keeping the narrative interesting. The twists in the climax are also impressive and leave a lasting impact.

What Doesn't Work:

Although Rao Bahadur is built around an intriguing concept, the screenplay does not fully do justice to its potential. The first half moves at a slow pace, with several scenes dragging unnecessarily. A few overlong sequences further weaken the narrative and affect the film's overall engagement.

Rao Bahadur Review And Verdict:

Rao Bahadur is an honest attempt that blends mystery, psychological drama, and dark comedy. While the sluggish first half and stretched-out sequences hold it back, Satyadev's impressive performance and the impactful second half and climax make the film a decent watch.