Odia Cinema Review
Odia cinema review is my views on some specific films. Like any regional film industry, Odia film industry is a complex tapestry of hits and misses. It’s a space where genuine artistic expression sometimes struggles to find its footing amidst commercial pressures and varying levels of technical expertise. The films I’m discussing here represent a range of recent efforts, and while individual experiences may vary, my reviews aim to provide honest, first-hand accounts of their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, movies will come and go; they can be labeled “good,” “bad,” or “worst.” But here, the result doesn’t matter as much as the path of progressiveness.
1. Daman
Daman is not just a film — it’s a turning point for Odia cinema, boldly telling the story of a young doctor assigned to a remote tribal village where healthcare is nearly absent. What makes this movie shine isn’t just the noble theme, but the incredible honesty in its storytelling.
The film’s script and execution are seamless. Every scene serves a purpose. There are no distractions — no unwanted songs, no unnecessary drama. It’s a no-nonsense narrative that respects both its subject and the audience.
One of the most delightful surprises is the chemistry between the main and side characters. The interactions are natural, sometimes funny, and always engaging. Whether it’s a light exchange or a tense moment of crisis, each character holds their ground and adds to the emotional richness of the film.
The supporting characters don’t just fill space — they feel alive and fully realized, with the actors delivering some of their most grounded performances.
Above all, Daman is a film with a soul — a rare blend of social message, authentic emotion, and cinematic discipline. It’s not flashy, but it’s unforgettable. A true stepping stone for the Odia film industry, and a must-watch for anyone who values substance over spectacle.
2. Puskara
Puskara emerges as a cinematic triumph, its narrative meticulously crafted and brought to life with a palpable sense of artistry. The screenplay is a masterclass in nuanced writing, matched by an execution that demonstrates a keen directorial vision. From the very first flicker of the screen, the film immerses the viewer in a richly textured world, where dusty streets and intimate interiors alike feel genuinely inhabited. Each character, rendered with intricate detail that extends far beyond the central figure, exudes a profound sense of belonging within this carefully constructed reality.
The narrative unfolds with a gentle yet persistent warmth, revealing layers of profound depth and subtle currents of drama that ripple beneath the surface. It explores a distinctive thematic landscape, one that carves its own path away from well-trodden cinematic territories. The film’s emotional center beats with a powerful resonance, drawing the audience into the intricate tapestry of the characters’ lives, making their sorrows palpable and their moments of joy deeply affecting.
While the lead performance undoubtedly shines, “Puskara’s” true brilliance lies in its cohesive ensemble. A collective of talented actors breathes authentic life into every corner of the cinematic frame, creating a vibrant and believable community. This is not merely a film to be watched; it’s an experience that settles deep within the viewer, stirring profound emotions that linger long after the final credits roll. “Puskara” stands as a perfect 10, a resounding achievement in both the art of storytelling and the capturing of the human spirit.
3. Ajira Rebati
Ajira Revati unfolds as a subtly commanding piece of cinema, artfully weaving the fabric of social realism with threads of profound emotional resonance. The film commences at a deliberate cadence, its initial acts stretching with a measured patience that gently tests the viewer’s engagement. However, this pacing reveals itself as an intentional choice, laying the groundwork for a deeply affecting second half that ultimately rewards the initial investment of time and attention.
Anchoring the narrative is a truly luminous portrayal by the lead actress, who embodies her character’s resilience, inner turmoil, and quiet fortitude with a breathtaking authenticity. While the ensemble cast contributes nuanced performances, it is her understated yet magnetic presence that elevates the film, imbuing it with its very essence.
Rather than resorting to overt emotional manipulation, “Ajira Revati” extends a quiet invitation into its carefully constructed emotional landscape. As the story gently progresses, it gradually transforms into a poignant reflection of countless unspoken narratives, particularly those belonging to women whose battles often remain veiled from wider recognition.
“Ajira Revati” is not a film that shouts for attention; instead, it resonates as a persistent whisper, a subtle yet potent voice that lingers in the mind. For those attuned to its quiet power, it promises to be an experience that leaves an indelible mark.
4. Karma
Karma is a loud, stylized action film that caters primarily to the mass audience. From the very beginning, it dives headfirst into fast-paced sequences, aggressive background scores, and visually saturated slow-motion shots. The heavy use of slow motion, though overdone at times, adds a kind of visual adrenaline that gives the film a pumped-up, larger-than-life energy. The action choreography is intense and keeps the screen dynamic, delivering the kind of visual spectacle that fans of mainstream action cinema often look for.
One of the stronger aspects of the film is its interpersonal chemistry between characters. Dialogues and face-offs carry emotional charge in places, and the scenes involving character-to-character interaction help maintain some grip on the audience even when the plot becomes predictable. However, much of the storyline feels linear and formulaic, and the film relies more on visual impact than strong writing.
A turning point in the movie — where the protagonist kills his wife after discovering her infidelity — is deeply disturbing. Although it reflects a harsh reality of how some people in society respond to betrayal, the way it’s portrayed in the film is morally hollow and emotionally flat. It’s handled without enough sensitivity or introspection, and fails to raise any critical discussion around the act. The scene risks normalizing violence rather than challenging it.
Overall, Karma works best as a stylized action entertainer. It delivers power-packed visuals, dramatic set-pieces, and massy thrills. But if you’re looking for narrative depth or emotional complexity, the film may leave you wanting. It’s a movie built more for impact than introspection — exciting on the surface, but hollow beneath.
5. Pade Akasha
Pade Akasha is a film that unfurls with a quiet, almost ethereal power, its narrative painted with strokes of social realism and imbued with a profound emotional undercurrent. The initial moments unfold at a measured pace, a deliberate rhythm that might initially test the viewer’s patience, akin to watching a slow-moving cloud. However, this considered tempo serves a purpose, ultimately giving way to a deeply resonant second half that justifies the contemplative beginning.
At the heart of this cinematic expanse lies a luminous performance from the lead actress. She embodies her character with a captivating blend of resilience, vulnerability, and inner strength, her portrayal as authentic as the earth beneath an open sky. While the supporting performances add texture to the landscape, it is her understated yet commanding presence that elevates “Pade Akasha,” giving it its very soul, like the unwavering light of a distant star.
The film refrains from overt emotional manipulation, instead inviting the audience to slowly enter its atmospheric world. As the narrative gradually reveals itself, it becomes a poignant reflection of countless untold stories, particularly those of women whose struggles often remain as unseen as whispers carried on the wind. “Pade Akasha” is not a film that clamors for attention; rather, it resonates as a lingering echo, a quiet yet potent voice that, for those willing to listen, will prove to be an unforgettable journey across its cinematic sky.
6. Dustbin
Dustbin plunges into the overlooked corners of society, its narrative raw and unflinching in its portrayal of a world often deemed disposable. The storytelling unfolds with a gritty realism, unafraid to linger on the textures of neglect and the weight of discarded lives. From the opening scene, the viewer is immersed in an environment that feels tangible and worn, where the echoes of forgotten stories linger in the air. The film initially presents a striking and pertinent concept, hinting at a powerful exploration of societal discards and their human cost.
At the center of this stark landscape is a compelling performance by the lead actor, who embodies a character shaped by circumstance, carrying the weight of their experiences with a palpable intensity. The supporting cast populates this world with faces etched by hardship, each performance adding a layer of authenticity to the film’s unvarnished portrayal of reality. However, the execution of this promising premise unfortunately achieves only a fraction of its inherent potential.
The central idea, while bold and relevant, suffers from a choppy and uneven translation to the screen. The narrative unfolds in a fragmented manner, hampered by a script that feels disjointed and lacks a smooth flow. Furthermore, the inclusion of unnecessary musical sequences serves as jarring interruptions, actively undermining the intended tone and thematic consistency. What could have been a sharp and incisive piece of socially conscious cinema, deeply exploring the lives within the “Dustbin,” ultimately feels underdeveloped and unbalanced, like a promising vision only partially brought to fruition.
The film doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths it unearths, refusing to sentimentalize or offer easy answers. Instead, it invites the audience to confront the complexities of its characters’ lives, forcing a consideration of what society often chooses to ignore. Despite its conceptual strength, the flawed execution prevents “Dustbin” from fully realizing its potential, leaving the viewer with a sense of what could have been a far more impactful and resonant cinematic experience.
7. Angel
Angel opens with a visceral intensity, immediately grabbing the viewer’s attention. The initial sequences depict the lead character as a figure of decisive action, a protector rescuing women from the clutches of trafficking. This strong beginning promises a gripping thriller, a narrative driven by urgency and heroism.
However, the film’s trajectory shifts dramatically, and less effectively, when the protagonist’s daughter goes missing. The narrative tension, so taut in the opening scenes, begins to unravel. Instead of a relentless pursuit fueled by adrenaline and desperation, the protagonist’s response becomes frustratingly passive. He is reduced to a figure of inaction, spending crucial time in a static state of grief and conjecture, a stark contrast to his earlier dynamism.
This shift in character, and the pacing, is further exacerbated by the insertion of musical sequences that feel jarringly out of place. These songs, rather than enhancing the emotional landscape, serve only to irritate and disrupt the already fragile tone. They act as unwelcome intrusions, pulling the viewer out of the narrative’s already tenuous grip.
The film culminates in an ending that feels both abrupt and confusing, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction and unresolved threads. What began as a potentially tight and thrilling ride ultimately devolves into a chaotic and unsatisfying experience, a cinematic promise left unfulfilled. The initial potency is squandered, leaving the audience to ponder what could have been a far more compelling and cohesive film.
8. Malyagiri
Malyagiri emerges as an action-packed cinematic endeavor, plunging the viewer into a narrative woven around themes of sacrifice and determination. The film centers on Parshu, a seemingly ordinary young man, who is thrust into an extraordinary situation. When his father falls ill, requiring a substantial sum for an operation, Parshu faces a daunting challenge. Driven by filial devotion, he embarks on a perilous quest to climb the treacherous Malyagiri mountain, seeking a rare and potent remedy – “vedic leafs”.
The film unfolds against the backdrop of the imposing Malyagiri, a location that becomes a character in itself. The cinematography captures the raw beauty and inherent danger of the mountain, with sweeping vistas and perilous climbs.
Babushan Mohanty portrays Parshu with a blend of raw determination and vulnerability. He carries the weight of his father’s life on his shoulders, and this is evident in his every action and expression. The supporting cast, including Amlan Das, Sivani Sangita, and Suryamayee, add layers to the narrative, each contributing to the unfolding drama.
“Malyagiri” is not just about the physical challenges of scaling a mountain; it delves into the emotional terrain of a son’s love and the lengths he will go to save his father. The film blends action sequences with moments of introspection, exploring themes of desperation, courage, and the power of human resilience.
However, much like other films with strong concepts, “Malyagiri” suffers from erratic storytelling. While the core idea holds promise, the film struggles to develop its plot and emotional arcs fully. There are moments where the film hints at its potential, but it ultimately fails to deliver on that promise. The narrative feels disconnected, resulting in a waste of a good concept.
9. Mind Game
Mind Game, the Odia film, emerges as a thriller that feels like an impressive, high-quality television series in its style and execution. Evoking comparisons to productions like “Dial 100,” it suggests a narrative focused on suspense and a confined, procedural storyline, but with a heightened sense of production value and polish. The plot revolves around a series of intricate crimes that challenge the protagonist, a determined detective, to use his intellect and psychological insight to solve them. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a complex web of deceit and manipulation, where nothing is as it seems.
The film is technically competent, delivering a coherent and watchable experience. The performances are well-crafted, and the plot unfolds in a logical, if somewhat predictable, manner. While it may lack the visual grandeur and expansive storytelling that typically define a feature film, “Mind Game” compensates with a strong sense of pacing, tight plotting, and a focus on character development that is often associated with compelling television dramas. It feels contained, yet rich in detail and nuance, more akin to a gripping television special than a sprawling cinematic epic.
While not inherently flawed, “Mind Game” doesn’t necessarily strive for cinematic immortality. It’s a film that viewers can watch and appreciate for its measured and restrained approach, its intricate plotting, and its well-developed characters.
10. Racket
Racket is a 2025 Odia film that attempts to blend crime, drama, and thriller elements, but ultimately falls short due to several narrative and execution issues.
The film’s core concept might have been more effectively explored in a short film format, as the story is padded with unnecessary scenes that disrupt the pacing. A particularly egregious example is a pointless love story involving a police officer, which further contributes to the film’s bloated runtime and detracts from the central plot.
While the child actress delivers a commendable performance, a subplot involving badminton is poorly handled. The scenes depicting the sport are unconvincing and awkward, undermining any potential dramatic tension or emotional investment.
The climax of “Racket” is particularly problematic. The sequence in which the parents are permitted to kill the culprits within a hospital setting is not only bizarre but also deeply disturbing, raising ethical questions and leaving a negative impression.
Ultimately, the film struggles to justify its own existence, leaving the viewer with a sense of bewilderment and the question: “Why am I even watching this?”
11. Bhai
Bhai is a 2025 Odia film that falls into the action and drama genres, but suffers from a severe lack of focus and coherence.
The film’s central relationship, the bond between the brother and sister, which is supposedly the emotional core of the story, feels artificial and unconvincing. This undermines the entire narrative and makes it difficult for the audience to invest in the characters or their journey.
Adding to the film’s disjointed nature are several bizarre and illogical elements: RAW agents who openly identify themselves as such, a villain who speaks Gujarati, and a random, out-of-place item song in Odia. These elements contribute to a sense of confusion and undermine any attempt at narrative cohesion.
Furthermore, “Bhai” is plagued by excessive stylistic flourishes that detract from, rather than enhance, the viewing experience. Unnecessary slow-motion shots, stylized action sequences that add nothing to the plot, and an overbearing use of background music create a sense of sensory overload and further contribute to the film’s overall incoherence.
The end result is an emotionally hollow film that desperately tries to appeal to a “mass” audience but ultimately collapses under the weight of its own confused and misguided execution. It leaves the viewer feeling disoriented and wondering what the point of it all was.
12. Delivery Boy
Delivery Boy is a 2023 Odia drama that explores the lives and struggles of food delivery workers, but quickly devolves into a pathetic and illogical cinematic experience.
The film’s first half is carried by the performance of the comedian, whose humor and timing bring much-needed levity and structure. However, once this character dies, the second half becomes unbearable. The characters feel superimposed onto their roles, further miscarrying any potential for drama. The story jumps from place to place without logic, and the dialog lacks continuity. While the camera work and some other technical aspects were commendable, the plot goes haywire with the introduction of another advocate. This character is given an unnecessary song sequence that does nothing to advance the story and further detracts from the film’s already faltering narrative.
The narrative loses its focus, becoming uncoordinated and emotionally flat. Poor direction and a lack of focus undermine the promising setup, making the film increasingly difficult to sit through. The reviewer found the second half so disconnected that they walked out after the interval.