HIT: The Third Case – Movie Review
Rating: 3/5
Sailesh Kolanu’s HIT: The Third Case brings a darker, grittier tone to the successful HIT franchise, led this time by Nani in a career-defining transformation. The film follows SP Arjun Sarkaar, an emotionally complex and brutal cop tasked with unraveling a sinister criminal operation linked to the dark web.
Story & Direction
The narrative kicks off with a high-stakes investigation that quickly plunges into graphic violence, psychological trauma, and cryptic clues. Kolanu builds a layered world that expands the HIT universe but stumbles in pacing and depth. While the premise has weight, the screenplay focuses more on showcasing Arjun's intensity than exploring the intricacies of the case itself. Some twists feel rushed, and emotional threads remain underdeveloped.
Performances
Nani delivers a raw and commanding performance. His portrayal of a tormented officer, balancing rage and vulnerability, anchors the film. Srinidhi Shetty provides solid support, and Prateik Babbar makes a chilling impression in his Telugu debut. However, several secondary characters lack the depth to truly elevate the tension or emotional stakes.
Technical Aspects
The film’s technical execution is impressive. Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography gives the film a gritty, cold visual language, while Mickey J. Meyer’s background score, although restrained, supports the tense moments well. Action sequences are visceral and intense, though the editing could’ve been tighter in the second half.
What Works:
Nani’s intense performance
Strong visuals and slick action
The attempt to evolve the HIT universe
What Doesn’t:
Underwhelming emotional engagement
Predictable narrative turns
Missed opportunities in character arcs
Verdict:
HIT: The Third Case succeeds more as a stylish action thriller than a gripping investigative drama. While it doesn’t quite match the depth of its predecessors, Nani’s brooding portrayal and the film’s brutal aesthetic make it an engaging watch for fans of the genre.
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