Darshan’s 2025 Kannada Film vs. M. Night Shyamalan’s 2010 Thriller
Introduction: Navigating ‘The Devil’ Films
Navigating the world of cinema can sometimes be a devilish task, especially when multiple films share similar titles. If you’re searching for a “devil movie review,” you might be looking for one of two distinct films that have recently captured attention: the action-packed “The Devil” (2025 Kannada film) starring Challenging Star Darshan, or the suspenseful “Devil” (2010), a supernatural horror thriller from the mind of M. Night Shyamalan. Both films offer vastly different cinematic experiences, and we’re here to break down the critics’ reactions and audience reception for each, helping you decide which “Devil” is worth your watch.
The Devil (2025 Kannada Film): Darshan’s Dual Role & Critical Reception
Plot, Performance, and Strengths
First, let’s delve into “The Devil” (2025 Kannada film), an action-political drama that has been a hot topic in Indian film circles. This Darshan-starrer sees the popular actor in a compelling dual role, a performance widely lauded as one of the film’s strongest assets. The plot follows Krishna, a humble mess owner, as he’s drawn into impersonating Dhanush, the dangerous son of a powerful chief minister, blurring lines between identity, power, and emotion. Darshan’s portrayal, showcasing varied body language and delivering powerful dialogues, brought clarity and conviction to both characters, a highlight for many viewers and a key reason some considered it a “complete banger.”
Weaknesses & Audience Reaction
Despite Darshan’s strong performance, the film has faced significant criticism. Reviewers often pointed to an outdated plot, a weak and predictable screenplay, and a sense of recycled scenes from Darshan’s previous movies. Many felt the narrative lacked grip, emotional depth, and rhythm, with the political drama elements frequently falling flat. Poor scene transitions and rushed editing contributed to the feeling that “The Devil” was, for some, a “total waste.” While the cinematography by Sudhakar S. Raj contributed to a stylized, large-scale visual tone, and music by B. Ajaneesh Loknath had a few enjoyable tracks like “Idre Nemdiyaag Irbek” and “Onde Ondu Salara,” the overall execution struggled to impress. Early strong opening crowds, fueled by Darshan’s immense popularity, reportedly waned quickly as audience reactions on social media called it “outdated” and a “colossal disappointment.” Ultimately, it’s considered a decent one-time watch primarily for fans of “mass cinema” who appreciate high-octane moments and polished production, but it struggles to rise above an average film.
Devil (2010): M. Night Shyamalan’s Supernatural Horror Thriller Analysis
Premise, Praise, and Suspense
Shifting gears, let’s explore the chilling “Devil” (2010), a supernatural horror film that captivated Hollywood audiences with its claustrophobic setting and tense storyline. Based on a story by M. Night Shyamalan and directed by John Erick Dowdle, this thriller is set almost entirely within the confines of a malfunctioning elevator, trapping a group of strangers who soon realize one of them is the Devil. This unique premise immediately builds suspense, making it a standout “thriller movie.”
Critics largely praised “Devil” (2010) for its effectiveness as a tight, suspenseful thriller. The sleek, dark aesthetic and impressive lighting were frequently highlighted, creating an ominous atmosphere from the opening shots. The pacing was described as crisp, keeping audiences engaged and guessing the identity of the malevolent entity. The film’s ability to generate a strong sense of unease and dread within such a limited space was a recurring point of praise, establishing it as an enjoyable psychological horror experience for many. It truly delivered on its promise of a gripping, confined narrative, making it a compelling entry in the supernatural horror genre.
Criticisms & The Ending Debate
However, “Devil” (2010) also faced its share of criticism. The ending, in particular, was a significant point of contention, with many finding it unsatisfying, silly, or inconsistent with the film’s initial tone. Some felt the resolution, with its religious undertones and emphasis on redemption, was shoehorned in and undermined the horror elements, resulting in a “cheap surprise” rather than a well-earned twist. While the film featured a mix of character types, their development was often seen as bland or forgettable, with late exposition failing to make many of them resonate deeply with viewers. Despite these flaws, many considered “Devil” (2010) a worthwhile watch for fans of claustrophobic thrillers, delivering enough scares and twists to be an engaging “time-passer.”
Which ‘Devil’ to Watch? Your Ultimate Guide
When considering a “devil movie review,” it’s clear that the title alone isn’t enough to guide your choice. “The Devil” (2025 Kannada film) offers a “mass cinema” experience driven by Darshan’s dual role in an action-political drama, though its narrative largely disappointed critics and audiences beyond initial fanfare. In contrast, “Devil” (2010) delivers a taut, claustrophobic supernatural horror thriller with effective suspense, despite some reservations about its ending and character development. Whether you’re in the mood for an Indian action spectacle or a Hollywood psychological fright, choosing your “Devil” depends entirely on your preferred cinematic experience. Both films have their moments, but understanding their distinct genres and critical receptions is key to avoiding a “colossal disappointment.”
What’s your take on these films?
Have you seen either ‘Devil’ film? Share your thoughts and preferred cinematic experience in the comments below!Join the Discussion
About the Author
