“Waravu” starring Joju George is finally in theaters. The action film is directed by veteran filmmaker Shaji Kailas and will be released on July 16, 2026. Shortly after the premiere, viewers took to X (formerly Twitter) to share their opinions.Early reactions have been divided. While a segment of the audience appreciated the film’s action sequences, visual effects and lead performances, many others felt the revenge drama followed an outdated formula.
Some viewers thought the film was outdated
One X user harshly criticized the film and questioned its writing and execution. The post read: “#Varavu is a revenge drama that might have been successful 25 years ago, but today it is painfully outdated in every aspect. The script is predictable from start to finish, the emotional beats never land, and the movie struggles to remain engaging. “
FB
The review further read, “#ShajiKailas delivers one of his most dated efforts, relying on an old-school filmmaking style that feels completely out of touch with contemporary audiences. The action scenes are noisy, the storytelling is stale, and there are barely any fresh ideas in sight. Not even the promised performances of #JojuGeorge and Murali Gopy can save this failure. A thoroughly disappointing watch.”
FB
FB
Action, visuals and performances were appreciated
Not all reactions are negative. Some viewers praised the film’s presentation and action, while expressing hope that the second half of the film was stronger.A user shared, “#Varavu first half review. Signature style and production by Shaji Kailas. Brilliant action choreography. Refreshing visuals. Popular avatar of JoJu George. Murali Gopi is good and full of menace. Simple revenge story in 90s style. Needs a strong second half.” Decent. “
Many reviews criticized the script
Another detailed review on Kotta. Forgotten high-level action entertainers around without capturing the intensity or quality that makes them work.“The review added, “#JojuGeorge is known for its iconic screen presence and action sequences, but apart from that, the film offers almost nothing to keep the audience engaged. A weak plot, a mediocre script and a predictable narrative prevent Varavu from finding its footing. The twist surrounding the character of Arjun Ashoka should have been a major turning point, but it fails in the end and ends up being the biggest failure of the film. With little emotional impact and no real narrative payoff, “Waravu” ends up being a forgettable action film that’s easily skipped. “Another viewer posted, “#Varavu ~ An outdated revenge drama with a completely predictable script and almost no emotional punch. Joju George and Murali Gopy’s performances are engaging, but they can’t save a film that feels stuck in the style of filmmaking from decades ago. The action scenes are loud rather than purposeful and the story has nothing new. Complete failure!”
About this movie
“Varavu” is directed by Shaji Kailas and stars Joju George in the lead role. The supporting cast includes Murali Gopy, Arjun Ashokan, Sukanya, Baiju Santhosh, Deepak Parambol, Baburaj, Vani Viswanath and Saniya Iyappan.
