The cinematic extension of the popular web series, ‘Mirzapur: The Movie,’ has arrived in theatres. Directed by Gurmmeet Singh and created by Puneet Krishna, the film serves as a prequel set within the timeline of the series’ first season . It opened exclusively in cinemas on September 4, 2026, with some reports predicting a strong opening of over ₹25 crore .
The film features the return of the core cast, with Pankaj Tripathi reprising his role as the formidable Kaleen Bhaiya and Ali Fazal as Guddu Pandit . Divyenndu also returns as the impulsive Munna Tripathi . A notable change is the recasting of Bablu Pandit, with Jitendra Kumar stepping into the role originally played by Vikrant Massey in the series . The ensemble cast includes Ravi Kishan as a new antagonist, Babban Babua, alongside Abhishek Banerjee, Rasika Dugal, Shweta Tripathi, and Sonal S Chauhan, among others .
The plot revisits the power dynamics of Purvanchal, where Kaleen Bhaiya’s control over the region is challenged by a new and cunning drug lord, Babban Yadav, played by Ravi Kishan . The narrative explores the ongoing tussle for power, jealousy, and the strained relationship between Munna and his father, as Kaleen places his trust in the loyal Pandit brothers, Guddu and Bablu . The film’s storyline functions as an ‘untold chapter,’ inserting a fresh subplot into the established continuity of the first season without altering major events that viewers already know .
Critical Reception
Initial reviews for ‘Mirzapur: The Movie’ have been largely positive, with critics praising its mass appeal and the performances of its cast. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh gave the film a four-star rating, calling it a ‘winner’ and a ‘peak mass entertainer’ in a review on social media . He commended the film for feeling ‘larger, louder, and far more cinematic’ than an extended series episode, while retaining the raw spirit of the franchise . He singled out performances, calling Pankaj Tripathi ‘exceptional’ and Ravi Kishan ‘outstanding’ .
Other reviews echoed these sentiments, noting that the film is a solid addition to the franchise. One critic highlighted that while Jitendra Kumar’s recasting as Bablu might take some getting used to, the actor ‘slips so effortlessly into the role’ that it quickly ceases to be an issue . The film’s action sequences and dialogues have also been noted as major highlights, with the action described as ‘raw and brutal’ and perfectly matching the intense world of ‘Mirzapur’ . The background score was also praised for elevating the scenes, with multiple moments featuring Haryanvi rap songs that enhance the sequences .
Criticisms and Reception
Despite the praise, common criticisms point to the film’s lengthy runtime, which is over three hours. Some critics noted that the second half feels stretched and could have benefited from editing . Taran Adarsh mentioned that the film dips towards the second half, though it is rescued by a strong climax . Another review from IMDb mentioned that while the story and performances were good, some action sequences felt unrealistic and seemed focused on protecting the main characters .
Audience reviews on platforms like IMDb also reflect a positive reception, with many calling the film an entertaining return to the world of ‘Mirzapur’ . One review described it as ‘pure madness, pure mayhem, and absolute peak bhaukaal from start to finish,’ while another noted that the film was predictable but a ‘sure-shot hit product’ for fans of the series .
‘Mirzapur: The Movie’ is currently playing in theatres, offering both fans and newcomers a chance to experience the violent and gritty world of the Tripathis and Pandits on the big screen .
