HIT: The Third Case (2025) Movie ft. Komalee and Sailesh
HIT: The Third Case marks a major shift in the popular HIT franchise, with Star Nani taking on the role of the ruthless SP Arjun. Directed by Sailesh and produced by Wall Poster Cinema and Unanimous Productions, this 2025 Telugu action thriller is the third installment in the HIT series. The film stars Nani alongside Srinidhi, with notable performances from Rao Ramesh, Brahmaji, and Surya Sreenivas.
Plot and Story
The story follows SP Arjun Sarkaar, an aggressive police officer who finds himself imprisoned for committing a murder. The plot unfolds through flashbacks as Arjun narrates his story to fellow prisoner Samuel Joseph. The case centers around 13 identical murders committed across India, all linked to a mysterious website called CTK.
Arjun investigates a series of brutal murders in Jammu and Kashmir involving elusive killers. The investigation leads him into a dark web of psychopathic cults and organ trafficking operations. The second half transforms into action-heavy sequences where Arjun infiltrates the criminal network.
Nani’s Power-Packed Performance
Nani delivers his most intense performance to date in this new action avatar. His transformation from the usual everyman persona to a brooding, violent cop showcases remarkable range. I found his dialogue delivery and physical presence particularly impressive throughout the film. The actor successfully carries the entire narrative with his commitment to this challenging role.
Srinidhi Shetty plays the female lead, though her role remains limited. The supporting cast including Rao Ramesh and Brahmaji provide adequate support, while surprise cameos from other star heroes energize the climax.
Technical Excellence
Sailesh Kolanu’s direction takes a bold new approach for the franchise. He effectively uses medical terminologies to add authenticity to violent sequences, drawing from his background. However, the direction has received mixed responses due to departure from investigative roots.
Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography stands out as the film’s strongest technical element. Each frame adds intensity and mood to the narrative. The visual treatment effectively captures the dark, gritty atmosphere.
Mickey J. Meyer’s background score provides peak-level excellence, returning to collaborate with Nani after Shyam Singha Roy. The soundtrack includes four singles that complement the film’s tone.
Critical Reception
The film received mixed to positive reviews from critics and audiences.
Major publication ratings include: Times of India gave 3 out of 5 stars, praising Nani’s intensity and visuals but noting narrative issues. Hindustan Times rated it 2.5 out of 5 stars, stating Nani steals the show in a gory film needing better execution. The film currently holds a 7.0 rating on IMDb.
What I Liked
I appreciated Nani’s complete transformation into an action hero role. His commitment to the character and successful transition stands as the film’s biggest strength. The technical excellence including cinematography, background score, and production values demonstrate high filmmaking standards.
The action choreography impressed me with its realistic approach. The visual appeal and stylized treatment create an appropriate atmosphere for the violent narrative.
Areas That Could Be Better
The film struggles with pacing and story structure. I felt it lacks the precision and suspense expected from a gripping investigative thriller. The shift from investigation to action dilutes the franchise’s original appeal.
While Nani’s character receives extensive development, the antagonist’s characterization falls short despite heavy buildup. The film creates genre confusion by not fully committing to either thriller or action elements.
Box Office Success
HIT: The Third Case performed well commercially, becoming Nani’s highest-grossing film. It closed its worldwide box office run at 120.58 crore gross, surpassing Dasara to achieve this milestone.
The film collected ₹43 crore worldwide on opening day and ₹88 crore in six days. With a production budget of 70 crores, it enjoyed 16% returns, making it a commercial success.
OTT Streaming
Netflix acquired streaming rights for ₹54 crore. The film began streaming from May 29, 2025, in Telugu and dubbed versions of Hindi, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam.
Final Verdict
HIT: The Third Case represents a bold but divisive entry in the franchise. While Nani’s powerhouse performance and technical excellence deserve recognition, the narrative’s departure from investigative thriller roots creates mixed reactions.
For Nani fans and action thriller enthusiasts, HIT 3 offers engaging entertainment with spectacular visuals. However, those expecting psychological depth from earlier films may feel disappointed.
The film succeeds as a standalone action thriller while setting up HIT: The Fourth Case. Despite its flaws, it entertains audiences and establishes Nani as a credible action hero.
Rating: 3/5 stars
