Telugu cinema, often celebrated for its grandeur and mass appeal, has redefined its narrative in 2024. Breaking free from the age-old critique—“Telugu audience failed here” when good films underperformed at the box office—this year has been a turning point. 2024 proved that audiences are more than ready to embrace quality storytelling, with all content-rich films finding commercial success. It’s safe to say Telugu cinema passed 2024 with flying colors.
From massive blockbusters to fresh and experimental ventures, the year witnessed remarkable achievements. With Devara crossing ₹500 crores, Kalki joining the ₹1000-crore club, and Pushpa 2 soaring to an unprecedented ₹1500 crores, the box office celebrated a golden phase. Even second-tier films consistently grossed ₹100 crores, while smaller, content-driven films enjoyed long theatrical runs.
Adding to the diversity, fresh attempts like Lucky Bhaskar, Gaami and Swag showcased bold, innovative storytelling, cementing 2024 as a landmark year for Telugu cinema.
Sequel to Yatra – 2019
Reception – Yatra 2 received largely negative reviews, criticized for its slow pace, lack of emotional depth, and biased portrayal. While Jiiva and Mammootty‘s performances stood out, the film primarily appealed to specific fans.
Sreaming Partner – Prime Video
Sequel to Bhamakalapam, a web film – 2022
Reception – Bhamakalapam 2 garnered mixed reviews. While critics appreciated Priyamani’s commendable performance and the film’s engaging moments, they highlighted its reliance on cheap thrills, lack of logical consistency and uneven execution in the final act.
Sreaming Partner – Aha Video
Sequel to DJ Tilli – 2022
Reception – Tillu Square received positive reviews for Siddhu Jonnalagadda‘s performance, humor and engaging moments. While praised for its comedy and lively performances, the predictable storyline and reliance on callbacks to the original were noted as drawbacks.
Sreaming Partner – Netflix
Sequel to Geethanjali – 2014
Reception -Geethanjali Malli Vachindi was considered partly engaging, with criticism for its average background score, poor cinematography and weak screenplay. However, the performances of the ensemble cast received praise.
Sreaming Partner – Aha Video
Sequel to Prathinidhi – 2014
Reception – Prathinidhi 2 was criticized for its weak narrative, unengaging screenplay and failure to capture the essence of a political-investigative thriller.
Sreaming Partner – Aha Video
Sequel to Mathu Vadalara – 2019
Reception – Mathu Vadalara 2 received mostly positive reviews, with praise for its hilarious first half, Satya‘s standout performance, and strong background music. However, the second half lost some energy, and the crime thriller elements were less engaging.
Sreaming Partner – Netflix
Sequel to Pushpa The Rise – 2021
Reception – Pushpa 2: The Rule receives praise for Allu Arjun‘s performance, music, and cinematography, while facing criticism for pacing and weak antagonists. It performs exceptionally at the box office, grossing over 1000 crores and counting, now running in cinemas.
Now running in Cinemas
Sreaming Partner – Netflix – From 2025