Archive · 3 Sep 2026
I'm Game Reviews Split Over Dulquer Salmaan's Performance And Runtime
I'm Game is a new Malayalam film starring Dulquer Salmaan.
It was released in theatres and received mixed reactions online.
Many viewers liked the fresh idea and the exciting first half.
They also praised Dulquer's acting, style and screen presence.
Some people liked the film's visuals, music and technical work.
Other viewers felt the second half became slow and too long.
A flashback lasting about 30 to 45 minutes was criticized for reducing the movie's energy.
The film is directed by Nahas Hidhayath and also stars Antony Varghese and Kayadu Lohar.
I'm Game released in theatres with mixed social-media reactions.
Viewers widely praised Dulquer Salmaan's performance, screen presence and style.
Several reactions described the first half as fresh, engaging and well executed.
Criticism focused on the stretched second half and a three-hour runtime.
The film marks Dulquer Salmaan's Malayalam-cinema return after King of Kotha (2023).
- Who
- Dulquer Salmaan leads the film, directed by Nahas Hidhayath, with Antony Varghese, Kayadu Lohar and others in the cast.
- What
- I'm Game is a Malayalam film that received mixed reviews from viewers after its theatrical release.
- When
- It released in theatres today according to the article; its planned August 21 release was later moved to September 3.
- Where
- In theatres; the film is part of Malayalam cinema.
- Why
- Viewers differed because they praised the concept, first half, performances and technical elements while criticizing the long runtime and slower second half.
Positive Reactions
Critical Reactions
Dulquer Salmaan's performance
Positive Reactions
Supporters said Dulquer Salmaan was excellent and praised his swag, screen presence, attitude and performance.
Critical Reactions
Critics generally acknowledged that Dulquer performed well but felt his performance could not overcome the film's weaknesses.
Film concept and first half
Positive Reactions
Some viewers called the concept fresh and refreshing, describing the first half as engaging, stylish and well executed.
Critical Reactions
Others said the promising idea did not become a fully successful film, especially after the first half.
Second half and runtime
Positive Reactions
Some viewers still considered the movie an entertaining ride despite a stretched second half.
Critical Reactions
Several viewers criticized the three-hour runtime and said the long flashback slowed the film and weakened its overall impact.
- Lead actor
- Dulquer Salmaan
- Director
- Nahas Hidhayath
- Runtime criticism
- Several viewers called the three-hour runtime a drawback.
- Praised elements
- The concept, first half, visuals, music, background score and Dulquer Salmaan's performance received praise.
- Main criticism
- A 30-45 minute flashback in the second half was said to slow the film.
- Previous Malayalam release
- King of Kotha (2023)
- Release scheduling
- Originally scheduled for August 21 and later moved to September 3.