The Telugu film ‘Matka’ was released today, November 14, 2024, and audiences have started sharing their reviews on X (formerly Twitter). Directed by Karuna Kumar, this period action drama stars Varun Tej Konidela, Meenakshi Chaudhary, and Nora Fatehi in leading roles.
Initial reactions from viewers are mixed. Some fans have praised Varun Tej’s performance, describing it as one of his career bests. One user noted that while the first half of the film was below average and filled with cliched scenes, Varun’s solid acting and the film’s period setup were commendable. However, they expressed a desire for a more exciting second half to elevate the overall experience.
A user wrote, “#Matka Below Average 1st Half! Run of the mill so far filled with cliched scenes that lack impact. Varun Tej is solid so far and the period set up is done well but the film is progressing in a very ordinary with nothing exciting. Need a big 2nd Half!”
Another viewer shared some similar sentiments, rating the film 1.5 out of 5 and criticizing the screenplay and background music. Despite these critiques, some fans appreciated the film’s retro vibe and intense action sequences.
For the 2 hours 39 minute film, another viewer says, “#MATKAReview #VarunTej good Screenplay and dram not working Bgm normal songs worst Overall Rating 1.5/5. Average movie and worst”
An X user wrote, “Completed #Matka It’s a kind of Retro Mass actioner with some beautiful performances & intense action, as usual Mega Prince @IAmVarunTej steals the show with his stellar performance, director
@KKfilmmaker wonderfully recreated those vintage retro vibe A Mass jathara in theatres. Ilanti Mass cinemalu chey Varun.. ni cutout ki ilantive correct.”
Another fan wrote, “Liked 1st half.. Well established setup @IAmVarunTej transformation #MATKA”
Another fan writes, “Except Dance.. Acting + Looks + Dailogue Delivery + Script selection + BAJANA+ fan's … Annintlo Varun Tej >>>>>>>>> CHARan. Mega Fan's rC badhulu VT ni encourage chesi vunte intha Proud feel ayina wounded
A netizen compared ‘Matka’ favourably to ‘Kanguva’, suggesting that while reports about ‘Kanguva’ were disappointing, ‘Matka’ was being celebrated as a potential blockbuster. They wrote, “Sorry For #Kanguva Team. Coming from Us reports Very Bad. Congratulations for #Matka Team. Inside Reports B-L-O-C-K-B-U-S-T-E-R.”
‘Matka’ has garnered both praise and criticism, its release marks a significant moment for Varun Tej as it is his first pan-India project.