OG First Review: Pawan Kalyan, Emraan Hashmi’s action thriller gets thumbs up from critics, calls it ‘full paisa vasool performance…’

Pawan Kalyan and Emraan Hashmi's most anticipated film They Call Him OG is all set to hit the theaters on September 25, 2025. Meanwhile, the first review from pre-release has surfaced online.

The early reviews for OG (also titled They Call Him OG) are out and critics are impressed. The Telugu action thriller, starring Pawan Kalyan and Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi (in his Telugu debut), is being hailed as a “paisa vasool” entertainer with powerful performances.

They Call Him OG receives thumbs up

According to film critic Umair Sandhu, who previewed the film, OG is a “paisa vasool” entertainer in every sense, with standout performances and solid filmmaking.  Sandhu calls Emraan Hashmi the “show stopper” of the film, saying his portrayal of “Omi Bhau” is intense, menacing, and electrifying, in fact, many believe he raises the bar even beside Pawan Kalyan. The screenplay, action choreography, pacing, and dialogue are getting praise for keeping the momentum alive. The film is all set for its grand release on September 25, 2025.

First Review #TheyCallHimOG from Censor Board!! #PawanKalyan & #EmraanHashmi SOLID COMEBACK 👌! Go for it !! pic.twitter.com/kg97kdWCaI

— Umair Sandhu (@UmairSandu) September 21, 2025

What is the storyline?

The story follows Ojas Gambheera, also known as OG, a feared gangster who mysteriously disappears at the peak of his power. After a decade-long absence, he returns to the underworld, only to find it ruled by a new and ruthless crime boss, Omi Bhau, played by Emraan Hashmi, who makes his Telugu debut in this film. OG’s return sets off a violent and emotional power struggle, as he aims to reclaim his lost throne and settle old scores.

Set against the gritty backdrop of the criminal underworld, the film combines high-octane action with strong emotional themes like vengeance, loyalty, and redemption. OG is not just an action film but a layered story that balances intense fight sequences with emotional depth. The storyline promises a powerful face-off between OG and Omi Bhau, making it a compelling gangster saga with mass appeal.

Story Highlights

1. OG stars Pawan Kalyan as a feared gangster returning after a decade to reclaim his lost power.
2. Emraan Hashmi makes a powerful Telugu debut as Omi Bhau, a ruthless crime boss and the main antagonist.
3. Early reviews, including one by Umair Sandhu, praise the film as a “paisa vasool” entertainer with gripping performances and slick action.
4. The film blends action, emotion, and a high-stakes power struggle set in the gritty criminal underworld.

OG is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated Telugu action thrillers of 2025. The early reviews are already creating a buzz, especially after critic Umair Sandhu hailing it a full “paisa vasool” experience.