HIT: The Third Case (2025) Movie Movies4u

HIT: The Third Case marks the continuation of director Sailesh Kolanu’s thriller franchise, bringing back the intensity that defined its predecessors. This 2025 Telugu-language action thriller serves as the third installment following HIT: The Second Case (2022), expanding the universe with a fresh narrative.

The movie features Nani in the lead role as Arjun Sarkaar, supported by Srinidhi Shetty, with appearances from Karthi and Adivi Sesh. Produced by Wall Poster Cinema and Unanimous Productions, the film brings together cinematographer Sanu John Varghese and music director Mickey J. Meyer.

HIT: The Third Case Movie Actors

Plot and Storyline

The story takes a bold creative leap from its predecessors, transforming from a methodical thriller into a high-octane action spectacle. The Homicide Intervention Team (HIT) sends officer Arjun Sarkaar to find a group of killers and stop their murder spree.

The film takes audiences through a genre blend reminiscent of Kill Bill and John Wick, incorporating thriller elements with Indian romance. The plot reveals a darker, more violent approach compared to the franchise’s earlier entries, diving deep into themes of vengeance and justice.

Cast Performance

Nani delivers a career-defining performance as Arjun Sarkaar, showcasing range from detective work to intense physical confrontations. Critics praised Nani’s performance despite criticizing other story aspects. His transformation to this more aggressive character demonstrates his versatility as an actor.

Srinidhi Shetty provides strong support as the female lead, bringing emotional depth to her role. The supporting cast, including Rao Ramesh, Samuthirakani, and Komalee Prasad, each contribute meaningfully to the narrative.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Sailesh Kolanu’s direction represents both evolution and departure from his previous HIT franchise work. The film lacks the precision expected of a gripping thriller, instead playing out like a cross between Squid Game-style survival drama and typical mass-action film.

Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography captures both intimate character moments and large-scale action sequences with equal skill. The visual presentation was highly appealing with Mickey J. Meyer’s music during the final act providing a memorable experience.

What I Liked and What Could Be Better

What Works I found the film succeeds in creating a visceral, intense viewing experience that pushes Telugu cinema’s action boundaries. Nani’s performance shows him embracing full-fledged violence, creating scenes that are both shocking and compelling.

The visual presentation maintains high production values throughout, creating a cinematic experience that feels international in scope. The connection to the broader HIT universe provides satisfaction for franchise fans.

Areas for Improvement In my opinion, the film lacks emotional depth needed to justify its violence, failing to establish clear genre identity. The shift from methodical investigation to intense action may disappoint fans who loved the franchise’s original approach.

I noticed the film includes excessive slow-motion hero shots and relentless fight sequences that sometimes overshadow the psychological elements. The balance between character development and action spectacle needed better management.

Critical Reception and Ratings

Professional Reviews The film received mixed reviews from critics, with most acknowledging Nani’s committed performance while expressing concerns about the franchise direction. 123telugu.com rated the film 3.25/5, representing a generally positive but reserved response.

IMDb users rated the film 7.0/10, indicating audiences responded more positively than critics to the action-heavy approach. The rating suggests while it may not satisfy all expectations, it succeeds as entertaining action thriller.

Audience Response Public reception has been notably mixed, with action film fans praising the intensity and visual spectacle, while thriller fans expressed disappointment with the departure from investigative roots.

Box Office Performance

HIT: The Third Case achieved the franchise’s biggest opening with Rs 18 crore net in India, significantly outperforming HIT: The Second Case which managed only Rs 6.4 crore opening day. The film emerged as the fourth highest-grossing Telugu film of 2025.

The film moved toward the Rs 60 crore mark at domestic box office, with collections reaching approximately Rs 53.72 crore by day 5. The strong performance indicates audiences responded positively to the action-oriented approach.

Future Prospects

A sequel, HIT: The Fourth Case, has been announced, suggesting the franchise will continue despite mixed critical reception. The commercial success provides a strong foundation for future development.

The film’s impact on the HIT franchise appears significant, establishing a new template that balances investigation with high-octane action. This approach could influence how future installments are developed.

Final Verdict

HIT: The Third Case represents a bold evolution for the franchise. While it may not satisfy all expectations, it succeeds in creating a unique viewing experience that pushes Telugu action cinema boundaries.

Nani’s committed performance, combined with strong technical execution, creates a film that works as an intense action thriller. For viewers seeking intense action and visual spectacle, HIT: The Third Case delivers effectively.

I believe the film establishes a new direction that could prove sustainable if future installments better balance action with character development. The announcement of a fourth film suggests this approach will continue.

Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

The film succeeds as an action thriller while falling short of its potential as a psychological investigation. Worth watching for Nani’s performance and technical execution, but with tempered expectations for franchise purists.