Movie Name : Hey Balwanth
Release Date : Feb 20, 2026
123telugu.com Rating : 2.75/5
Starring : Suhas, Shivani Nagaram, Naresh Vijaya Krishna, Sudarshan and others
Director : Gopi Atchara
Producer : B.Narendra Reddy
Music Director : Vivek Sagar
Cinematographer : Mahi Reddy Pandugula
Editor : Viplav Nyshadam
Related Links : Trailer
Hey Balwanth, the Telugu comedy drama starring Suhas, Naresh, and Shivani Nagaram, has finally reached theatres after building reasonable anticipation through its promotions and title change. Here is the review examining how it fares.
Story:
Since childhood, Krishna Balwanth (Suhas) dreams of taking over his father Rao Balwanth’s (Naresh) business, yet he has no idea what the business actually is, as his father deliberately keeps him away from it. When Krishna finally discovers the truth, he is left shocked and conflicted, and decides to put an end to it. However, unexpected developments complicate his decision, drawing two politicians and Mithra (Shivani Nagaram), Krishna’s lover, into the situation. What exactly is this business, why has Rao Balwanth continued it despite facing criticism, and how these events change Krishna’s life form the crux of the story.
Plus Points:
Suhas takes on a role that aligns well with his strengths. He handles the comedy with ease and performs the emotional moments with sincerity. His presence keeps the narrative engaging for a major part of the film.
Naresh delivers a dependable performance as the father. His experience and timing elevate several scenes, especially the interactions between him and Suhas.
Nellore Sudharshan contributes effective humour with his energetic dialogues, while Vennela Kishore adds additional comic relief. The suspense built around the father’s business maintains curiosity and works reasonably well when revealed.
Certain sequences, particularly those involving the women connected to the business, attempt to add emotional perspective. The interval segment provides entertaining moments, and portions of the climax aim to leave an emotional impact. The supporting cast performs adequately within their roles.
Minus Points:
Although the central idea has potential, the screenplay becomes less cohesive in the second half. The introduction of a political angle and a crime-related development shifts the tone and affects the smooth flow established earlier.
Some scenes in the latter half feel prolonged and could have been more concise. A tighter screenplay might have enhanced the overall impact. The emotional portions, while sincere in intent, could have been presented with greater depth and clarity.
The attempt to justify the father’s actions is understandable, though it may not resonate equally with all viewers. The black comedy elements show promise but could have been explored more effectively. Certain character roles, including that of Shivani Nagaram and Harsha Vardhan, have limited scope within the narrative.
Technical Aspects:
Gopi Atchara makes his directorial debut with a film that blends comedy and social commentary. While the intention behind the narrative is appreciable, the execution occasionally lacks consistency, particularly in the latter half. Vivek Sagar’s music supports the film but does not stand out significantly. The cinematography by Mahi Reddy Pandugula is functional. Editing by Viplav Nyshadam could have been sharper to maintain pacing. Production values are satisfactory.
Verdict:
On the whole, Hey Balwanth is a comedy drama that offers moderate entertainment but does not fully capitalise on its potential. The performances of Suhas, Naresh, Sudarshan, and Vennela Kishore provide a few enjoyable moments, especially in the lighter segments. However, the film loses momentum in the second half, where the narrative feels stretched and less cohesive. The central theme, which leans into adult-oriented humour, may connect with a specific section of the audience. With controlled expectations, viewers who prefer light situational comedies may find it a passable watch.
123telugu.com Rating: 2.75/5
Reviewed by 123telugu Team