Pradeep Ranganathan, after the success of his previous films, comes up with Dude, a romantic comedy targeted at the Gen-Z audience. Directed by debutant Keerthiswaran, the film, which has Mamitha Baiju alongside, has opened to mixed but largely positive reviews, cementing Ranganathan’s status as a box office draw for youthful, relatable stories.
The film is about Agan (Pradeep Ranganathan) and Kural (Mamitha Baiju), childhood friends and partners in an event management company. The strength of Dude lies in the first half, which is described by many as an “engaging” and “fun-filled” ride with infectious youthful energy. Pradeep Ranganathan’s trademark boy-next-door charm and goofy histrionics are in full display, carrying the light-hearted screenplay with ease. His chemistry with Mamitha Baiju, who impresses with her natural screen presence and emotional depth, is a major highlight, making their relationship believable. The interval sequence is often cited as a standout, and introduces a significant twist that sets the stage for a dramatic second half.
But it is this shift in the second half where the film falters. While the narrative is commendable for tackling a real-world issue—a conflict that revolves around societal and familial pressures—reviewers note a drop in the entertainment quotient. The transition from rom-com to emotional drama is often described as “jarring” and “uneven”. The writing in the second half struggles to maintain the sharpness of the first, with some critics pointing out predictable plot points and over-reliance on melodrama to convey the social commentary. A few felt the film’s attempt to balance comedy, romance and seriousness resulted in a slightly chaotic and less impactful experience.
Sarathkumar, in a dynamic role as Kural’s father and Agan’s uncle, is a strong anchor, stealing scenes by blending humour and the darker shades of his character. On the technical front, Niketh Bommi’s cinematography is vibrant and colourful, and Sai Abhyankar’s music, especially the songs, is a major asset, though the background score is mixed.
In short, Dude is a film that knows its lead star’s strengths and uses them well. It’s an enjoyable watch for the target audience, with plenty of “Pradeep Ranganathan style” moments and a great lead pair chemistry. Not a perfect film and second half is inconsistent, but its spirited core and willingness to tackle a serious subject with humour makes it a fun, if slightly overlong, addition to the actor’s filmography, and cements his status as a bankable star.