03 September,2026 05:49 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Dulquer Salmaan (Picture via X)
Dulquer Salmaan is back in Malayalam cinema, and his latest outing, I'm Game, has opened to a mixed response from moviegoers. The Nahas Hidhayath directorial, which hit theatres on Thursday, has found plenty of appreciation on social media, particularly for its first half, action sequences, music, visuals and Dulquer's performance. However, some viewers feel the film loses steam in the second half.
Early reactions on X suggest that the film starts on a strong note. Several viewers have described the first half as engaging and praised the way the makers have blended commercial elements with fantasy. The film's VFX, background score and distinctive treatment have also emerged as talking points, while the bar fight sequence and interval block have been singled out for praise.
The fantasy element appears to be one of the film's biggest draws. While I'm Game uses elements familiar to horror and commercial cinema, audiences have noted that its fantasy-driven treatment gives the story a different flavour. One section of viewers has particularly appreciated the concept and the way Hidhayath has handled the first half.
Dulquer, meanwhile, has been receiving his share of applause. The actor plays Dan John, a gambler who relies on a mathematical betting system and finds himself caught in a high-stakes situation. Early viewers have praised his energy and screen presence, with some calling the action portions among the highlights of his career.
But the second half appears to be where opinions become divided. Some viewers felt that the film slips into a familiar flashback-and-revenge template, making portions predictable and affecting the overall impact. One reaction labelled the film "strictly average", citing the flashback section and conventional climax as its major drawbacks. Others, however, felt that Dulquer's performance and the background score help the film regain momentum.
Directed by Hidhayath, who previously helmed RDX, I'm Game features an ensemble cast including Antony Varghese, Mysskin, Kayadu Lohar, Samyuktha Viswanathan, Kathir and Vinay Forrt. Dulquer has also backed the film under his Wayfarer Films banner.
The film was initially scheduled to release on August 20 but was postponed to avoid a crowded Onam release window. Now that it is in theatres, the early word suggests that I'm Game has an intriguing concept and a strong first half, even if its second half has left some viewers wanting more.
