The Paradise, starring Nani and directed by Srikanth Odela, has opened in theatres on September 24, 2026. The film marks the second collaboration between Nani and Odela after Dasara and features Mohan Babu, Kayadu Lohar, Sonali Kulkarni and Raghav Juyal in important roles.
Early reviews and audience reactions have focused heavily on Nani’s performance, the film’s action sequences and Anirudh Ravichander’s background score. Some viewers have praised the opening portions, Nani’s introduction and the atmosphere created by the film. At the same time, several early reactions have criticised the pacing and screenplay in the latter half.
The story is set around 1980s Secunderabad and follows Jadal, played by Nani, who belongs to a marginalised community facing oppression and discrimination. Mohan Babu plays Malik, while Sonali Kulkarni appears as Jadal’s mother Shamakka. The narrative deals with themes including identity, resistance, family and the struggle for basic rights.
The film has generated mixed early reactions rather than a uniform response. Some social-media users have highlighted the energetic opening and Nani’s screen presence, while others have described the second half as slower and less emotionally effective. These reactions are based partly on early screenings and should not necessarily be treated as representative of the entire audience.
Critics have also pointed to differences between the film’s ambitious themes and its execution. India Today, for example, highlighted Nani’s performance and Anirudh’s music while criticising the film’s fragmented storytelling and screenplay.
The film’s first half has received appreciation from some reviewers and early viewers for establishing its world, characters and conflict. The atmosphere, visual presentation and action sequences have also emerged as notable elements in early reactions.
Anirudh Ravichander’s music and background score are another important component of the film. Early audience reactions have mentioned the music, particularly during major elevation sequences, while the film’s songs had already generated attention before release.
Mohan Babu plays the central antagonist Malik, while Raghav Juyal appears as Vikram Malik. Kayadu Lohar plays Subbalakshmi, popularly known as Subbu, adding another character thread to the story.
Overall, early reviews show that The Paradise has received a mixed response, with Nani’s performance, the film’s visual world and music among the aspects receiving attention, while screenplay, pacing and the second-half narrative have drawn criticism from some reviewers. Audience reactions are still developing as the film continues its theatrical run.