Hey Balwanth Movie Review: VK Naresh Stands Out, Suhas Reflects on Career
The Telugu comedy drama Hey Balwanth released in theatres on February 20, 2026, drawing attention both for its unusual title change and its father son storyline. Directed by debutant Gopi Achara and starring Suhas and VK Naresh, the film has received a mixed critical reception, with reviewers praising performances but questioning the narrative consistency.
The Hey Balwanth movie review coverage across leading publications suggests that while the film begins with promise and humour, it struggles to sustain emotional depth in its latter half.
Title change and pre release buzz
Before its theatrical release, the film made headlines for its title. Originally named Hey Bhagawan, the Central Board of Film Certification reportedly advised a change, leading to the final title Hey Balwanth. The decision sparked curiosity among audiences, adding to the film’s pre release discussion.
As noted in coverage from The Indian Express hey balwanth indian express, the controversy around the title became a talking point, though the film ultimately retained its central narrative focus.
Plot: A son’s discovery and a hidden family truth
Set in Guntur, the story follows Krishna Balwanth, played by Suhas, who grows up idolising his father Rao Balwanth, portrayed by VK Naresh. Krishna dreams of joining the family business, unaware of what the business actually entails.
When he discovers the truth, he is left shocked and conflicted. The film explores themes of social stigma, generational differences and moral ambiguity. Shivani Nagararam plays Mithra, an NGO worker and Krishna’s love interest, while political complications add further layers to the plot.
According to the 123telugu review hey balwanth 123telugu, the premise offers scope for both comedy and drama, particularly in the father son dynamic.
Performances: VK Naresh earns strong praise
Across multiple Hey Balwanth movie review pieces, VK Naresh has emerged as the standout performer. Critics note that he carries much of the film’s emotional and comedic weight, bringing warmth and conviction to his role.
The Indian Express review hey balwanth indian express highlights Naresh’s ability to anchor both humour and drama, describing him as the clear strength of the film. His timing and screen presence elevate several key scenes, especially in interactions with Suhas.
Suhas, meanwhile, delivers a sincere performance that works particularly well in lighter moments. However, some reviewers suggest that the emotional beats do not always land with the intended impact.
Where the film falters
While the first half reportedly offers engaging comedy and situational humour, several critics point out that the second half loses momentum.
The 123telugu Hey Balwanth movie review hey balwanth 123telugu notes that the screenplay becomes less cohesive after the interval, with certain political and crime related elements affecting the established tone. Some emotional sequences feel prolonged, and the attempt to justify the father’s profession does not resonate equally with all viewers.
Similarly, The Indian Express review hey balwanth indian express observes that the emotional argument in the final act feels underdeveloped, weakening the film’s overall impact.
Suhas opens up about recent failures
Beyond the film itself, Hey Balwanth has also been part of broader industry conversations due to Suhas’s candid remarks about his career.
In an interview published by The New Indian Express hey balwanth newindianexpress, Suhas acknowledged that a series of recent failures had affected him deeply. He admitted that familial responsibilities led him to sign some projects hastily, calling them reckless decisions.
He expressed confidence in Hey Balwanth, stating that the film’s strong comedic quotient and father son emotional core convinced him to take it on after careful consideration. Suhas also revealed that he is expanding into Tamil cinema, with his upcoming project Mandaadi alongside actor Soori.
Ratings and verdict
Review scores reflect the divided response. The 123telugu rating stands at 2.75 out of 5 hey balwanth 123telugu, indicating moderate appreciation but clear reservations.
Most critics agree that the film offers light entertainment and enjoyable moments, especially in the first half. However, expectations of a tightly structured emotional drama may lead to disappointment.
Context within Telugu cinema
Hey Balwanth arrives at a time when Telugu cinema is experimenting with genre blending, combining social commentary with comedy. The film attempts to tackle adult themed humour alongside a sensitive father son narrative.
While the intention behind the storytelling has been acknowledged, reviewers suggest that sharper writing and tighter execution might have strengthened its impact.
For audiences seeking a weekend entertainer with situational comedy and strong performances, Hey Balwanth may prove satisfactory. For those expecting a deeply layered drama, it may fall short.
As reflected in the Hey Balwanth movie review discourse, the film stands as a mixed but noteworthy addition to this year’s Telugu releases.
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