Game Changer movie review: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Shankar treat fans with 'unpredictable' political action thriller

Director: S. Shankar 

Star cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, SJ Suryah, Jayaram, Sunil

Runtime: 2 hr 45 min

Where to watch: In cinemas 

Rating: 4 stars

Ram Nandan (Ram Charan), an angry, righteous man decides to change Andhra Pradesh and goes on a journey from being an IPS to IAS officer of Vishakapatnam to Chief Electoral Officer. However, his fight against corruption is his legacy, and he's unaware of it. How does Ram fight against social evils, and corrupt politicians, led by Bobbili Mopidevi (SJ Suryah) to protect the sovereignty of the state, that's forms the crux of Game Changer. 

When you are in for an S. Shankar film, you already know that the movie is about a hero's fight against corruption. Shankar's heroes are mostly vigilantes, who go against the law to protect it (read: Indian, Anniyan, Sivaji: The Boss). However, with Game Changer, Shankar decides to change his game, and the film becomes the perfect comeback vehicle for him. 

Game Changer starts on an average note, but the film picks up the pace soon. However, you do get Deja Vu from Shankar's previous films. Interstingly, Ram Nandan describes himself as 'I'm unpredictable'. But the film suffers from a predictable first half.  There are moments when you where the scene will lead, especially if you are Shankar's fan. However, the film drops a big twist in the interval, and the first half ends on a high note. 

The Game Changer justifies its title in the brilliant second half. Post interval, the movie becomes the cat-and-mouse fight between Ram and Bobbili Mopidevi, and we are introduced to Ram's father, Appanna (played by Ram). The flashback portion of Appanna takes the film to another level, and the thrill never boils down thereafter. The movie is a political action thriller, based on the backdrop of the Andhra Pradesh election. The second half shows how Ram fights against Mopidevi with the power of public votes. His fight to have a peaceful election makes the film an entertaining 'unpredictable' ride. 

Watch the Game Changer trailer

Speaking about the performances, Ram Charan is the soul of the film. He brilliantly carries his charisma without hampering the narrative. However, his role as Apanna will win you over. SJ Suryah makes an average entry into the film, but later becomes a scene-stealer of the film. He aces the villain part with flying colours. Kiara Advani looks pretty and dependable, but her character is limited, so she shines, despite not getting much to showcase. Jayaram and Sunil support the film with funny moments and create balance in the narrative. 

Game Changer works because of the strong, gripping, 'unpredictable' second half. Though the movie is almost 3 hours long, you won't feel bored. This is because of the screenplay that keeps your attention undivided. The action scenes are pretty good, and it works more nicely because it's not so over-the-top. The cinematography is top-notch, and the songs are a visual treat.  

However, there are a few shortcomings. Though the songs are a visual treat, none of their lyrics stay with you after the movie. Usually, Shankar's hero has an interesting BGM theme, and it was missing in this one. Also, the first half could have been edited a little. But overall, Game Changer is THE COMEBACK of our Shankar, the director who gave India memorable films that we still enjoy. Shankar and Ram Charan proved a terrific combo, and the film is expected to make records in 2025.