The Girlfriend Movie Review: Rahul Ravindran’s latest directorial, “The Girlfriend,” is a good attempt, but it falls short in execution. The movie, which has Rashmika Mandanna and Dheekshith Shetty as the leads, takes us to a heartfelt relationship drama but only partially delivers on that promise. The film has some sincere performances and a meaningful message at its core, which needs to be discussed in this The Girlfriend review.
Read Also: The Girlfriend X Review (2025): An Honest Romantic Drama, told in a sensible way
The Girlfriend Movie Details and Rating
- Release Date: 7th November, 2025
- Director & Writer: Rahul Ravindran
- Stars: Rashmika Mandanna, Dheekshith Shetty, Rao Ramesh, Rohini & Others.
- Cinematographer: Krishnan Vasant
- Editor: Chota K Prasad
- Music: Hesham Abdul Wahab
- Banners: Geetha Arts & Dheeraj Mogilineni Entertainment
- Runtime: 150 Minutes (2 hours and 30 Minutes)
- Rating: 2/5
The Girlfriend Movie Storyline
The Girlfriend is the story of Bhoomi (Rashmika Mandanna) and Vicky (Dheekshith Shetty). They are two young lovers whose relationship takes a dark turn. The relationship, which started as a passionate college romance, has now changed into a toxic bond that tests Bhoomi’s emotional strength. The film’s core was unique, as it tells how love can become suffocating when one loses individuality in the name of affection.
The story gains depth when Bhoomi starts her journey of heartbreak and self-discovery. She is trying to rebuild her identity beyond her relationship. The Girlfriend premise holds promise, but the execution is inconsistent, and this makes the journey feel more like a lecture on love.
Read Also: Thode Door Thode Paas Series Review: A Heartwarming Journey from Screens to Souls
The Girlfriend Cast Performances: Rashmika Shines, Dheekshith Impresses
Rashmika Mandanna shoulders the film with poise and sincerity. She was very natural while playing the role of a woman who is trapped in an unhealthy relationship. As Bhoomi, she owned every emotional moment, especially in the second half, that resonated deeply.
Dheekshith Shetty was very average as he tried to compliment her performance, but he failed to bring that sensitivity to a role that could have easily turned one-dimensional.
However, the supporting cast, which includes Rao Ramesh as Bhoomi’s father and director Rahul Ravindran himself in a cameo, fails to make any impression. Anu Emmanuel and Roshni appear briefly, but they add nothing to the story.
Direction and Writing
Director Rahul Ravindran, who is known for his renowned work in Chi La Sow and Manmadhudu 2, gives us a deep insight into crafting an emotional relationship drama. Unfortunately, the film’s writing is very inconsistent, as it lacks the sharpness that was needed to elevate The Girlfriend’s theme. The first half looks flat with routine college sequences and a slow build-up to the central conflict.
The pre-interval scene involving Bhoomi’s meeting with Vicky’s mother is a highlight, as it adds depth to the movie. But much of the narrative feels predictable. The second half is little better, as it features a few emotionally charged moments. But the absence of dialogue and a deeper emotional arc makes the film a disappointment.
The breakup scene should have been the emotional peak, but it feels very flat as it passes by without the gravitas. Ravindran’s storytelling is heartfelt. However, it doesn’t really dig deep enough to talk about the psychological nuances of toxic love.
Read Also: Maharani Season 4 Review: The Rise and Fall of Rani Bharti
Highlights and Drawbacks
Highlights:
- Rashmika Mandanna’s strong performance is probably the highlight of The Girlfriend
- Honest attempt at depicting toxic relationships
- Engaging interval block and background score
Drawbacks:
- Predictable screenplay and underwritten dialogue
- Lack of emotional depth
- Weak supporting characters
Final Verdict: Sincere but Not Strong
All in all, The Girlfriend movie is a great package that tries to touch your heart, but the execution is not up to the mark. Rahul Ravindran’s film tried to form a place, but it doesn’t fully succeed in moving the audience. Rashmika Mandanna’s performance is the only highlight of The Girlfriend, but the story remains surface-level, and it doesn’t have anything magical.
The Girlfriend is a one-time watch. The movie is honest in intention, modest in execution, and reflective in tone, but it doesn’t have anything that will keep you hooked. It’s strictly for viewers who appreciate relationship dramas.
Watch The Girlfriend Trailer
Note
I hope this article is very useful for you. If you like this article, please share it with your friends and family, and also let us know your queries in the comments.
