Gowtam Tinnanuri’s much-anticipated spy action thriller Kingdom, starring Vijay Deverakonda, finally hit the big screens on July 31. With fans rushing to theatres on opening day, social media platform X (formerly Twitter) is buzzing with a flurry of first reactions — and they’re quite mixed.

Produced by Naga Vamsi and Sai Soujanya under Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, the film has left audiences divided. While many are hailing it as a gripping action-packed ride, others feel it doesn’t bring anything new to the table.

A large section of the audience is showering praise on Vijay Deverakonda for what they’re calling one of his best performances to date. One user on X wrote,

> “#KingdomReview: Movie is a blockbuster! Story theme is the highlight. First half has great character intros, second half dives deep into drama. Some scenes show career-best performance from #VijayDeverakonda. Action & Music 🔥 and that boat sequence in the second half!”

Another user echoed similar sentiments:

> “Kingdom'' is a good action drama with high production values. Gautham Thinnanuri hits the bullseye again. Vijay Deverakonda's performance is lit 🔥 and Anirudh's music gives a solid high. First half is amazing; second half holds up well too.”

Praising the tight storytelling and performances, one tweet read:

> “Kingdom started with a bang — no deviations in the story from the start! Filled with powerful high moments. VD is back as a performer. Satya Dev was equally good. Bhagya’s role was limited but fine. AniGod’s BGM 🔥 Production values are top-notch. Ends with a solid cliffhanger.”

Others Call it “Routine” and a “One-Time Watch”

However, not everyone left the theatre impressed. Some viewers felt the film lacked emotional depth and originality.

One user posted:

> “#Kingdom is a decent one-time watch. You'll have a fair experience if expectations are kept low. Technical aspects were better than the writing. 2/5 stars.”

Another wrote:

> “Was really hyped when I heard Gowtam Tinnanuri was directing. Unfortunately, the film didn’t meet expectations. It wasn’t terrible, but it didn’t offer much either. VD was good. Satya Dev did what was needed.”

Some were more critical, calling it uninspired:

> “#Kingdom - BOREDOM. A soulless, dull template action drama with zero emotional connection. Only VD & Satyadev shine. Anirudh’s BGM is a plus. Pre-climax had promise, but it fizzled out. Overall, below average.”

Another viewer summed it up as:

> “A very ordinary and routine film. Nothing new or particularly engaging, apart from a few moments. Worth watching once, mostly for Anirudh’s music and VD’s performance. Ends with a formulaic climax trying hard to set up a sequel.”

Kingdom is said to be the first part of a planned duology. Alongside Vijay Deverakonda, the Telugu-language thriller features Satyadev, Bhagyashri Borse, Goparaju Ramana, Manish Chaudhari, and Baburaj in key roles. The music, composed by Anirudh Ravichander, has been consistently praised even by those critical of the film’s story.

As Kingdom begins its theatrical run, it’s clear that while it may not be universally loved, Vijay Deverakonda’s fans have plenty to cheer about — and the film sets the stage for what could be an intriguing sequel.