"HIT: The Third Case" A Gripping Yet Flawed Addition to the Franchise
Imagine a world where justice is as brutal as the crimes it seeks to punish. That’s the gritty reality of "HIT: The Third Case", the third installment in the Telugu-language HIT franchise, which hit theaters on May 1, 2025. Directed by Sailesh Kolanu, this action thriller stars Nani as SP Arjun Sarkaar, a cop whose intensity is as captivating as it is unsettling. While the film delivers heart-pounding moments and a stellar lead performance, its heavy reliance on gore and narrative hiccups make it a polarizing addition to the series. Let’s dive into what makes this film tick, why it’s sparking buzz, and whether it’s worth your time.
A Dark and Personal Mission
In "HIT: The Third Case", Arjun Sarkaar, a top officer of the Homicide Intervention Team (HIT) from Visakhapatnam, is dispatched to the rugged terrains of Jammu and Kashmir to investigate a series of brutal murders. What begins as a standard case spirals into a personal vendetta as Arjun uncovers a sinister web of crime, possibly linked to a mysterious dark web target known as CTK. The 157-minute runtime allows for a deep dive into Arjun’s psyche, blending psychological depth with high-octane action. The story explores themes of justice, vengeance, and the toll of relentless pursuit, with a tone that some fans on X compare to the dark, violent intensity of "Squid Game" .
The plot is gripping, with twists that keep you guessing, but it’s not flawless. Critics note that the narrative takes cinematic liberties, with some eye-rolling moments toward the end. The romance between Arjun and Mrudula (played by Srinidhi Shetty) feels forced, and the antagonist, Alpha (portrayed by Prateik Smita Patil), comes off as a caricature, lacking the menace needed to match Arjun’s intensity.
A Gory Spectacle with Mixed Reception
"HIT: The Third Case" is not for the faint-hearted. Certified A (adults only) by the censor board, it’s a blood-soaked thriller with graphic violence that earned it the nickname “gory fest” . The film’s Dolby Atmos sound and 2.39:1 aspect ratio enhance its immersive quality, but the gore may alienate viewers sensitive to blood and brutality (IMDb). X posts reflect this divide: one fan called it a “complete blood bath” , while another noted it ranks third in the franchise, suggesting it doesn’t surpass its predecessors .
Unique Insights and Buzz
One of the film’s most intriguing aspects is its reported inspiration from "Squid Game", evident in its dark, high-stakes tone . This comparison has sparked debate about originality, with some fans on X praising the bold approach and others questioning its reliance on familiar tropes. The film’s superstar cameo, teased in the climax, has also generated significant buzz, with Sailesh Kolanu publicly addressing leaks to protect the audience experience . This cameo, along with the seamless integration of new and returning characters, sets the stage for a potential "HIT: The Fourth Case", keeping the franchise’s future bright.
The film’s streaming rights were acquired by Netflix for a hefty ₹54 crore, signaling strong post-theatrical potential. Its music rights, secured by Saregama Telugu, and singles like "Thanu" by Anirudh Ravichander have added to its cultural footprint. However, the A-rating and censored scenes for gore have sparked discussions about the balance between artistic freedom and audience accessibility.
Is It Worth Watching?
For fans of Nani or gritty thrillers, "HIT: The Third Case" is a compelling watch. Its high-octane action, psychological depth, and Nani’s stellar performance make it a standout, even if it doesn’t reach the heights of the first two films. The cameos and hints of a sequel add excitement, but the graphic violence and uneven pacing may not suit everyone. If you’re squeamish or prefer nuanced storytelling, you might want to pass. For those ready for a gory, intense ride, book your tickets at BookMyShow and brace for impact.
