The Raja Saab Movie Review: Prabhas’ much-hyped horror-comedy The Raja Saab finally arrived in cinemas on January 9, 2026, and has since sparked intense debate online. Directed by Maruthi and backed by People Media Factory and IVY Entertainment, the film promised a fresh genre shift for the Baahubali star. However, early reactions suggest that The Raja Saab is a film that works strongly for some and completely fails for others.
Soon after the first shows, X (formerly Twitter) was flooded with extreme reactions. A section of viewers labelled the film a complete misfire. One user wrote, “Verdict: ULTRA DISASTER. The Raja Saab is a complete failure. Ek bekaar, cringe film—shuru se end tak bore karti hai.” Another post read, “#TheRajaSaab is an absolute disaster. Unbearable from start to finish. A confused mess with no soul, no logic and no excitement.” Criticism largely centred on the screenplay, dialogues and character development. A detailed reaction stated, “The concept was great, but the story, screenplay and dialogues were unbearable. Female leads could be removed and nothing would change.” Some viewers also questioned continuity issues and the absence of certain Prabhas looks that were promoted in the trailer.
Despite the backlash, The Raja Saab has found vocal support among fans and critics who believe the film improves significantly towards the end. Film critic Ravi Chaudhary wrote, “#Prabhas shines with swag and screen presence in dual shades. First half is gripping and fun. Second half goes full mass mode. A few dull moments, but the momentum holds.” Another user praised the actor, saying, “#Prabhas brings life to the film from first to last. Most interesting concept by director Maruthi, even if the screenplay stays commercial.” Some reactions even called it a visual spectacle. One tweet read, “#RajaSaab 3.75/5. Emotional horror-fantasy with humour. Fantastic sets, VFX and epic scale. A grand theatrical watch.”
Also Read: Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon 2 Review: Kapil Sharma Marries Three Women Again; Is Sequel Hit Or Miss?
Critics’ Take On The Raja Saab
However, film critics have largely been cautious. A prominent review noted that while the ideas are interesting, execution is the film’s biggest weakness. The writing struggles to hold the narrative together, and several characters “pop in and out without much purpose.” The review further observed that Prabhas “tries hard, very hard indeed, to lift the film out of its morass but it is all akin to tilting at windmills.” While his screen presence remains a major draw, the film’s excessive length and uneven tone work against it.
Final Verdict: Who Should Watch The Raja Saab?
The Raja Saab is clearly not a universal crowd-pleaser. If you are a Prabhas fan who enjoys mass moments, scale, and a powerful climax, the film may still offer value. However, viewers expecting tight storytelling, strong humour and consistent horror elements may walk away disappointed.