The HIT franchise, which has already captivated audiences with its suspenseful crime thrillers, has now introduced a new chapter with HIT 3: The Third Case. With Nani playing the role of Arjun Sarkar, the film takes the audience on another thrilling ride that promises twists, intense action, and emotional depth. Directed by Sailesh Kolanu, the movie raises the stakes of the franchise, while still retaining the essence of what made its predecessors successful: a gripping mystery, strong character arcs, and an unpredictable narrative. As fans eagerly awaited the next installment, HIT 3 delivers, and here’s an in-depth review of this film.
Plot Overview
HIT 3: The Third Case begins with a disturbing sequence of mysterious murders that shake the city. Arjun Sarkar, portrayed by Nani, is a dedicated and sharp homicide detective, part of the HIT (Homicide Intervention Team) force, who is tasked with investigating these heinous crimes. The killer’s modus operandi leaves behind cryptic clues, pushing Arjun into a psychological battle as he pieces together a series of chilling events.
Arjun’s personal demons are gradually revealed, which complicates his investigation. As he unravels more about the murders, he begins to realize that the killer might be someone much closer to him than he initially suspected. This pushes Arjun to confront his own dark past and buried emotions while navigating the case, leaving him on a path of self-discovery as much as professional resolution. The tension in the narrative comes not only from the investigation but also from Arjun’s inner turmoil, as he struggles with trauma, guilt, and loss.
What makes HIT 3 stand out is how the murder mystery doesn’t just serve as a plot device—it also drives the characters’ emotional development. The investigation becomes an opportunity for Arjun to rediscover his purpose and come to terms with his own vulnerabilities.
Nani’s Performance as Arjun Sarkar
In HIT 3, Nani takes on a completely different character from his usual roles. Known for his light-hearted and charming characters, this is a stark departure for the actor. His portrayal of Arjun Sarkar showcases the depth and range that Nani brings to the table. The role demands emotional depth and intensity, and Nani delivers with a performance that is both subtle and commanding.
Arjun is not your typical heroic cop. He is conflicted, burdened by his past, and skeptical of the system he works for. Throughout the film, Nani’s character oscillates between vulnerability and authority, giving him a very human quality. Arjun’s resilience is tested not just by the serial murders he investigates, but also by the haunting memories from his own life that begin to resurface.
The way Nani portrays Arjun’s struggle to balance his personal demons with his professional duties is what makes the film emotionally engaging. He also carries the physicality required for his role, excelling in both action sequences and intense, dramatic moments.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Sailesh Kolanu has done an exceptional job with HIT 3, continuing the strong legacy of the franchise while pushing it in new, bolder directions. The pacing of the film is deliberate, carefully building tension without ever feeling sluggish. Kolanu has a knack for creating suspense, drawing out key moments to their full potential. His handling of the case at the center of the film keeps the audience guessing until the very last scene.
The film takes its time to establish the characters and the world they inhabit, which contributes to the stakes of the investigation. There is a constant sense of urgency in Arjun’s pursuit of the killer, and Kolanu ensures that the audience is just as invested in this pursuit as Arjun is.
The cinematography by Sanu John Varghese is another key factor in the film’s effectiveness. The visual aesthetics complement the dark tone of the film. With dimly lit interiors, shadowy alleyways, and wide urban shots, the cinematography amplifies the feeling of isolation and danger that hangs over Arjun as he unravels the mystery. The color palette is muted, adding to the somber mood of the film. It’s evident that every shot in HIT 3 is carefully framed to match the narrative’s emotional undercurrent.
Supporting Cast and Music
The supporting cast in HIT 3 provides solid performances that enhance the movie’s overall impact. Srinidhi Shetty, playing Anjali, Arjun’s close colleague, brings depth to her role. While Arjun is the central character, Anjali’s involvement is crucial to the investigation, and Shetty provides the emotional support that Arjun needs in his most vulnerable moments. Their dynamic is one of trust and mutual respect, and their onscreen chemistry is evident, adding a human element to the otherwise intense narrative.
Mickey J Meyer, known for his diverse musical compositions, has contributed significantly to the atmosphere of the film with his background score. The music complements the movie’s dark tone, building tension in the right places without overwhelming the emotional depth of the scenes. The eerie, melancholic melodies suit the mood of the film, and the score is an essential part of the suspense.
The Investigation and Narrative Structure
A significant strength of HIT 3 lies in its storytelling. The investigation is intricate and layered, keeping the audience engaged without resorting to clichés or predictable tropes. The clues left behind by the killer are not just red herrings but pieces of a larger, more complex puzzle that takes Arjun—and the audience—on a rollercoaster of twists and turns. The narrative structure is such that just when you think you have it figured out, another revelation challenges your assumptions.
This film doesn’t just focus on the procedural aspects of a murder investigation; it delves deep into the psychological impact on the characters involved. Arjun’s journey is one of redemption and facing the shadows of his own life, making the film more than just a crime thriller.
Final Verdict
HIT 3: The Third Case is a well-crafted thriller that excels in its character development, story structure, and emotional depth. Nani’s portrayal of Arjun Sarkar is one of his finest performances to date, showing his versatility and skill as an actor. The film’s tense atmosphere, supported by strong direction, cinematography, and music, makes for an engaging cinematic experience.
While the movie may have a few slow moments, especially during its setup, the payoff is worth the wait. The unexpected twists, along with Arjun’s emotional journey, ensure that HIT 3 is not only a solid crime thriller but also a film that resonates on a personal level.
Public Talk and Audience Reactions
Ever since its theatrical release, HIT 3: The Third Case has garnered a strong response from audiences across Telugu-speaking regions and even outside. Social media platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and YouTube were flooded with posts praising the film’s storytelling, suspense factor, and especially Nani’s intense performance as Arjun Sarkar.
Here’s a summary of the public talk:
1. Nani’s Transformation Gets Applause
Fans are especially impressed with Nani’s transformation into a serious and brooding cop. Many said it’s one of his most powerful roles to date, calling his acting “intense, raw, and layered.” Viewers appreciated how he carried the emotional weight of the role without going overboard.
2. Direction and Screenplay Win Praise
Director Sailesh Kolanu has been praised for creating an immersive, well-paced thriller. On social media, many viewers highlighted how the screenplay was tight, with just enough suspense to keep them hooked until the final twist. “Perfect pacing, no dull moments,” said one X (Twitter) user.
3. Mystery and Twists Keep Fans Hooked
The biggest compliment from the audience was the film’s ability to keep them guessing. Public reactions noted that the final act had “goosebump moments,” with twists that no one saw coming. For many viewers, the film succeeded in delivering a thriller that felt original and grounded.
4. Technical Brilliance Noted
Cinematography and background score were hot talking points too. Many fans described the visuals as “cinematic and sharp,” perfectly matching the mood of the thriller. Mickey J Meyer’s BGM was repeatedly called “haunting and effective” by both fans and critics alike.
5. Minor Criticism
Some audience members felt the movie took a bit too long to get into the main plot and the first half could have been slightly crisper. A few also wished there had been more focus on the killer’s backstory, which they felt was underexplored.
Social Media Reactions:
- Nani nailed it again 🔥 Arjun Sarkar is now my favorite HIT cop!
- Goosebumps in the climax! What a twist. HIT 3 is a wild ride.
- This is not your regular thriller. Deep, emotional, and haunting. Don’t miss it.
- Nani’s eyes speak a thousand words. Outstanding performance. Salute!
Pros:
- Powerful performance by Nani as Arjun Sarkar
- Gripping murder mystery with unexpected twists
- Strong direction and impactful cinematography
- Intriguing emotional depth in the characters
- Effective background score by Mickey J Meyer
Cons:
- Slower pacing in the first half of the movie
- Some moments in the plot are predictable for seasoned thriller viewers
Overall: HIT 3 is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and anyone who enjoys a well-executed mystery. With stellar performances and a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat, this movie is a worthy addition to the HIT franchise. If you’re a fan of intense storytelling and complex characters, HIT 3 should definitely be on your watchlist.
Final Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
HIT 3: The Third Case delivers a gripping and emotionally intense crime thriller experience with standout performances and solid storytelling. Nani as Arjun Sarkar brings both emotional depth and action intensity, making this third installment a worthy successor in the HIT universe.