Maalik Movie Review: Rajkummar Rao’s Intense Gangster Saga

Maalik (2025) is an upcoming Hindi-language action‑thriller directed by Pulkit, starring Rajkummar Rao in a transformative gangster role. Set to release on 20 June 2025, the film promises to deliver a potent mix of stylised violence, moral conflict, and underworld politics.

Cast and Crew of Maalik

Director: Pulkit
Writer: Pulkit (with Jyotsana Nath)
Producers: Kumar Taurani, Jay Shewakramani (Tips Films, Northern Lights)
Music: Sachin–Jigar
Cinematography: (Not officially disclosed)

Main Cast:

• Rajkummar Rao as the titular Maalik
• Prosenjit Chatterjee as Maalik’s mentor
• Manushi Chhillar in a pivotal female role
• Huma Qureshi, Medha Shankar, Anshumaan Pushkar, Swanand Kirkire in supporting roles

Maalik Movie Review: Plot Overview

Maalik follows the transformation of an ordinary man into a powerful underworld kingpin. Beginning in Allahabad (Prayagraj) in 1988, the film tracks his rise through crime, ambition, and survival in a brutal power struggle. As Maalik ascends the underworld hierarchy, he grapples with loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of power . Set amidst socio‑political tensions, the story explores moral ambiguity and whether one can remain human in a world ruled by violence.

Performances and Direction

Rajkummar Rao undergoes a career-defining transformation—dropping his usual affability to portray a hardened gangster. Early buzz describes his look and demeanour as intense and residual of raw underworld energy . This role is a drastic shift from his recent light-hearted performances, drawing comparisons to iconic crime dramas.

Prosenjit Chatterjee as the mentor brings gravitas and a sense of moral conflict, rooting the narrative emotionally . Manushi Chhillar and Huma Qureshi add emotional layers and a personal side to Maalik’s journey, though specific plot roles remain undisclosed.

Pulkit’s direction emphasizes stylized action and intensity, crafting a world laden with betrayal, bond, and moral dilemmas. Influences from classics like Satya and Gangs of Wasseypur are apparent, yet Pulkit’s contemporary treatment promises something distinct.

Technical Aspects and Music

While official cinematography credits aren’t released yet, the teaser showcases gritty visuals, stark colour palettes, and visceral framing . Music by Sachin–Jigar combines haunting background scores with melodic interludes, building tension and emotional weight.

Maalik Movie Review: Expectations & Final Thoughts

Maalik is shaping up to be a high-voltage gangster drama, rooted in intense performances and morally complex storytelling. With a release date of 20 June 2025, expectations are running high—thanks to Rao’s evolution, Pulkit’s stylised direction, and strong production backing .

If early teasers are any indication, Maalik promises to redefine urban crime narratives in Hindi cinema. Watch for it when it hits screens next summer—this could become one of Rao’s most memorable, hard‑hitting performances.

Rating: Pending release (strong anticipation)

Watch Maalik on YoMovies

Stream Maalik when it’s available on YoMovies—your one‑stop for the latest Hindi action dramas and more.