The Girlfriend Movie Review and Rating: Rashmika Mandanna Shines in an Emotional Love Story
The Girlfriend Movie Review and Rating
Cast: Rashmika Mandanna, Dixit Shetty, Anu Emmanuel, Rao Ramesh, Rohini
Written & Directed by: Rahul Ravindran
Produced by: Dheeraj Mogilineni, Koppineedi Vidya
Presented by: Allu Aravind
Music: Hesham Abdul Wahab
Background Score: Prashanth Vihari
Cinematography: Krishnan Vasanth
Editing: Chota K Prasad
Release Date: November 7, 2025
The Girlfriend Movie Story:
Rahul Ravindran’s The Girlfriend revolves around Bhama Devi alias Bhoom (Rashmika Mandanna), Vikram (Dixit Shetty), and Durga (Anu Emmanuel), three students pursuing a PG course at Ramalingaiah College.
Vikram, known for his “angry young man” image, falls in love with Bhoom while maintaining a close friendship with Durga. However, Bhoom’s possessive and obsessive love begins to create friction in their relationship. Her controlling nature leads to a painful breakup.
The film explores questions like — why didn’t Vikram love Durga despite being close to her? Why did he fall so deeply for Bhoom? What made Bhoom’s love turn toxic? How did Durga react to their troubled relationship? What role did Bhoom’s father play when he discovered her affair?
All these emotional layers unfold as the story delves into love, obsession, and freedom — especially from a woman’s perspective.
The Girlfriend Movie Review:
Director Rahul Ravindran attempts to convey a strong message — that women should live freely without emotional or social restrictions. While the concept is powerful, the storytelling falters in the first half. The pacing is slow, and the narrative takes time to reveal its true emotional depth.
However, the second half completely changes the game. The emotional intensity, character development, and performances keep the audience hooked. Rashmika’s transformation from an innocent college girl to a woman facing psychological and emotional struggles is remarkable.
Dixit Shetty delivers a standout performance as a possessive, toxic, and emotionally unstable lover. His portrayal adds depth to the film’s theme of obsessive love. Anu Emmanuel plays a small yet impactful feel-good role. Veteran actors Rao Ramesh and Rohini leave a lasting impression with their brief appearances.
Rahul Ravindran, who also appears in a supporting role, shines as both actor and director in key emotional moments.
Technical Aspects:
Music & BGM: Prashanth Vihari’s background score enhances several key moments and adds soul to the emotional sequences.
Cinematography: Krishnan Vasanth captures college life beautifully, giving the film a colorful, youthful look.
Editing: Chota K Prasad’s editing feels a bit lagging in the first half, slowing the film’s pace.
Production Values: Dheeraj Mogilineni and Koppineedi Vidya, under the presentation of Allu Aravind, deliver high-quality visuals and impressive production design. Vidya’s choice of a woman-centric story reflects her passion for meaningful cinema.
Final Verdict:
The Girlfriend is a sincere and emotional take on love, obsession, and the right to freedom. While the first half tests your patience, the second half rewards you with powerful performances, strong emotions, and a heart-touching message.
Highlights:
Rashmika Mandanna & Dixit Shetty’s performances
Emotional depth in the second half
Beautiful cinematography
Strong message about women’s independence
Drawbacks:
Slow first half
Slightly over-dramatic screenplay in parts
Bottom Line:
If you’re a fan of Rashmika Mandanna or love intense emotional dramas, The Girlfriend is worth watching this weekend. Despite a few flaws, it connects deeply with Gen Z and parents who worry about the consequences of blind love.
Overall Rating: 3/5
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