Mirai Review: Teja Sajja’s Superhero Film Dazzles Visually But Lacks Heart

Visuals over heart. Teja Sajja’s highly anticipated superhero film, “Mirai,” has landed in theaters worldwide, sparking conversations about its stunning visual presentation versus its narrative depth. Released on September 12, 2025, the Telugu fantasy action-adventure, directed and cinematographed by Karthik Gattamneni and produced by People Media Factory, promises a grand spectacle rooted in Indian mythology. Initial reviews, as reported by outlets like The Hindu and Times Now, praise its technical achievements but also point to areas where the emotional core could have been strengthened.

A Superhero Saga Unfolds

“Mirai” transports audiences to a world where ancient scriptures hold immense power. The story centers around Vedha Prajapathi, portrayed by Teja Sajja, a young man destined to protect nine sacred scriptures entrusted by Emperor Ashoka centuries ago. These scriptures are coveted by Mahabir Lama, also known as The Black Sword, played by Manchu Manoj, a ruthless antagonist seeking immortality and power. According to 123Telugu.com, the film’s trailer, released on August 28, 2025, offered a glimpse into the visually rich experience that awaits viewers.

The Cast and Crew

Beyond Teja Sajja and Manchu Manoj, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast. Ritika Nayak, Shriya Saran (as Ambica, a character with significant emotional weight), Jagapathi Babu, and Jayaram all play pivotal roles in the unfolding saga. The film is produced by T.G. Vishwa Prasad and Krithi Prasad under the People Media Factory banner, with music composed by Gowra Hari. Adding to the film’s mythological grandeur, Prabhas reportedly makes a cameo appearance, potentially as a voice-over or even as Lord Ram himself, as noted by The Indian Express.

Visual Brilliance and Technical Prowess

“Mirai” has garnered significant attention for its technical achievements, particularly its visual effects, animation, and AI-rendered imagery. Ragalahari highlights the film’s impressive VFX work, which was achieved on a reported budget of approximately ₹60 crore. The film aims to seamlessly blend ancient Indian mythology with modern cinematic techniques, creating a visually stunning experience for the audience. The action sequences are also a major draw, with reviewers praising their high-octane energy and innovative choreography.

Teja Sajja as the ‘Super Yodha’

Teja Sajja’s performance as Vedha Prajapathi, the ‘Super Yodha,’ has been met with positive reception. Building on his previous success in the superhero genre with “Hanu-Man,” Sajja appears to be solidifying his position as a prominent figure in Indian superhero cinema. His portrayal of a reluctant hero grappling with his destiny is a key element of the film’s narrative.

Manchu Manoj’s Comeback

Manchu Manoj’s portrayal of the antagonist, Mahabir Lama, is also receiving considerable acclaim. This role marks a significant comeback for Manoj, and his menacing presence as The Black Sword adds a compelling layer to the film’s conflict. TV Guide suggests that Manoj’s performance is one of the highlights of the film.

Narrative Depth and Emotional Resonance

While “Mirai” excels in visual spectacle, some critics have pointed to areas where the narrative could have been strengthened. The primary criticism revolves around a perceived lack of emotional “heart” in the storytelling. As India Today observes, the film occasionally falters in pacing and character development, which impacts the overall emotional resonance. This sentiment is echoed by several reviewers who feel that while the film delivers on its promise of a grand visual experience, it could have benefited from a more nuanced and emotionally engaging narrative.

Pacing and Storytelling Concerns

Specific critiques focus on the pacing of the film, with some reviewers suggesting that certain sections feel rushed or underdeveloped. This can detract from the emotional impact of key scenes and character arcs. Additionally, some argue that the film’s focus on visual spectacle sometimes overshadows the deeper themes and emotional complexities of the story.

Release and Initial Reception

“Mirai” made its global theatrical debut on September 12, 2025, after a slight delay from its initially planned release date of September 5, 2025. Early box office estimates, reported by The Times of India, indicate a strong opening, with the film reportedly earning an impressive Rs 12 crore on its first day. This suggests a promising run in its initial weekend, despite the mixed critical reception regarding the story’s emotional impact.

A Technical Achievement for Telugu Cinema

Regardless of the criticisms surrounding its emotional core, “Mirai” is widely recognized as a significant technical achievement for Telugu cinema. The film pushes boundaries in visual effects and action choreography, showcasing the growing ambition and capabilities within the industry. TeluguOne.com emphasizes the film’s contribution to elevating the standards of visual storytelling in Telugu cinema.

The Impact of “Mirai”

The impact of “Mirai” extends beyond its box office performance. It solidifies Teja Sajja’s position as a leading figure in the Indian superhero genre and marks a successful comeback for Manchu Manoj. The film’s ability to deliver a large-scale spectacle on a mid-range budget, around ₹60 crore according to BookMyShow, is seen as a significant achievement, demonstrating the potential for Telugu cinema to compete on a global stage. NewsX and BollywoodShaadis also covered the release, indicating widespread interest in the film.

In conclusion, “Mirai” presents a visually stunning superhero saga that blends Indian mythology with modern cinematic techniques. While the film has faced some criticism for its narrative depth and emotional resonance, its technical achievements and strong performances, coupled with a solid opening, make it a noteworthy addition to the Telugu film landscape. The film serves as a testament to the growing ambition and capabilities of Telugu cinema in the realm of large-scale, visually driven storytelling. YouTube has also seen numerous reviews and reactions, further showcasing the film’s impact on audiences and the broader film community.