“Akhanda 2” is getting very mixed early reviews: fans of Nandamuri Balakrishna’s mass action style are largely positive, while some critics and netizens find it loud and weak on story.

Overall reception

Many early viewers describe “Akhanda 2” as a big, high-voltage “mytho-mass” entertainer packed with heavy action, spiritual elements, and crowd-pleasing elevation scenes, calling it a must-watch for Balakrishna’s fanbase and mass cinema lovers. Some reviewers, however, argue that the film suffers from a thin or messy screenplay, forced emotions, and excessive loudness, saying it feels like an unnecessary or disappointing sequel if you are looking for a strong story rather than spectacle.

Performances and direction

Balakrishna’s performance as Aghora Akhanda is the main highlight for most early reviewers, who praise his intense screen presence, unique action style, and “beast mode” energy in fights and elevation scenes. Boyapati Sreenu’s direction is seen as very much in his signature style: larger-than-life staging, mythological and spiritual flavor, and an emphasis on slow-motion, big set-pieces, and high-decibel drama, which works well for fans but may feel over-the-top for others.

Story, pacing, and technical side

Viewers who liked the film say the first half sets up the conflict and spiritual backdrop, while the second half delivers non-stop action, a “massive” climax, strong background score by Thaman, and visually grand sequences. Critical voices counter that the story is weak, the screenplay feels chaotic, some portions (especially non-core characters and romantic segments) drag, and the film could have been tighter by cutting 10–15 minutes.

How ratings differ

Some online critics and influencers are giving very high ratings, around 4–4.5/5, citing the climax, action, and mass appeal as the main strengths. Others rate it closer to 3/5 as a “feast for fans but just decent for others,” while at least one harsh early review goes as low as 0/5, calling it tiring and poorly written.

Should you watch it?

If you enjoyed the first “Akhanda,” like loud devotional-mass action films, and especially if you are a Balakrishna fan, early reactions suggest “Akhanda 2” will likely work well for you, mainly for the hero’s performance, action blocks, BGM, and climax. If you prefer grounded storytelling, subtle performances, and quieter drama, the criticisms about weak writing, noise, and overlength mean this sequel may feel disappointing despite its big scale and technical polish.