Ever wondered what happens when a charismatic DJ with a knack for trouble falls into another whirlwind of chaos? Tillu Square, the 2024 sequel to the cult hit DJ Tillu, delivers exactly that—a rollercoaster of laughs, romance, and crime that’s left Indian movie lovers buzzing. If you’re an Indian cinema fan craving the scoop on this Telugu sensation, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the cast, reviews, release date, and box office collections of Tillu Square, and uncover why it’s a must-watch for fans of smart, irreverent comedy.
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What Is Tillu Square All About?
Tillu Square picks up where DJ Tillu left off, bringing back the lovable yet hapless Bala Gangadhar Tilak, aka DJ Tillu, played by the magnetic Siddhu Jonnalagadda. This time, Tillu’s life takes another wild turn after a one-night stand with Lilly (Anupama Parameswaran), who isn’t what she seems. Packed with punchy one-liners, clever callbacks to the original, and a crime-comedy plot that keeps you guessing, the film is a vibrant mix of humor and heart. Directed by Mallik Ram and produced by Naga Vamsi under Sithara Entertainments, it’s a sequel that builds on its predecessor’s charm while carving its own path.
Why does this matter to Indian movie lovers? Because Tillu Square isn’t just a film—it’s a cultural moment. Its dialogues are already meme fodder, and its street-smart Hyderabad vibe resonates deeply with Telugu audiences and beyond. But is it worth the hype? Let’s break it down.
The Stellar Cast of Tillu Square
The cast of Tillu Square is a big reason for its success, blending seasoned actors with fresh faces to create a dynamic ensemble. Here’s who brings the story to life:
- Siddhu Jonnalagadda as DJ Tillu: The heart and soul of the film, Siddhu’s comic timing and expressive delivery make Tillu a character you can’t help but root for. His ability to balance humor with vulnerability is a standout.
- Anupama Parameswaran as Lilly: Playing the enigmatic love interest, Anupama adds depth to a role that’s equal parts charming and cunning. Some critics noted her performance as inconsistent in emotional scenes, but her chemistry with Siddhu keeps the sparks flying.
- Neha Shetty as Radhika (Cameo): Reprising her role from DJ Tillu, Neha’s brief appearance is a crowd-pleaser, sparking cheers in theaters.
- Supporting Cast: Muralidhar Goud, Murali Sharma, Praneeth Reddy Kallem, Prince Cecil, and others like Brahmaji and Priyanka Jawalkar round out the ensemble, delivering laughs and grounding the chaotic plot. Praneeth’s exasperated Marcus, with his ever-changing hair colors, is a particular highlight.
Why It Works: The cast’s chemistry, especially Siddhu’s one-man show, elevates a thin storyline into a laugh-out-loud experience. Their performances capture the quirky, relatable essence of Hyderabad’s urban youth, making it a hit with Indian audiences.
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Tillu Square Reviews: What Critics and Fans Are Saying
Tillu Square has garnered mostly positive reviews, with critics and audiences praising its humor and Siddhu’s performance, though some pointed out flaws in pacing and plot. Here’s a snapshot:
- The Hindu called it “a rare case of a sequel being better than the first film,” lauding Siddhu’s performance and the smart writing that builds on DJ Tillu’s legacy. The review highlighted the film’s “never-ending original one-liners” and clever narrative tools like repurposed old songs.
- India Today gave it 3/5 stars, noting that “Siddhu’s performance and comedy are its major strengths,” though the plot gets “incredulous” at times.
- Firstpost rated it 3/5, appreciating the comedy but pointing out that callbacks to the original sometimes felt forced.
- Deccan Chronicle was less impressed, giving it 2/5 stars and arguing that Siddhu’s charm wasn’t enough to sustain the film’s runtime.
- IMDb users rated it 6.6/10, with fans loving the “hilarious moments sprinkled throughout” but some feeling the second half lagged.
- Rotten Tomatoes audiences described it as “full fun” and a “formidable sequel,” though some felt the writing didn’t match DJ Tillu’s punchy dialogues.
Audience Buzz: Indian movie lovers on platforms like BookMyShow called it “non-stop comedy” and a “fun-filled ride,” with many urging others to watch it in theaters for the crowd energy. Some fans even dubbed it a must-watch for “every boy” due to Tillu’s relatable romantic misadventures.
Content Gap: Unlike many reviews that focus solely on the comedy, few delve into how the film captures Hyderabad’s urban culture or its meme-worthy dialogues. This article aims to highlight those unique angles, making it a go-to resource for fans seeking a deeper connection.
Release Date and Production Journey
Tillu Square hit theaters worldwide on March 29, 2024, after facing multiple delays due to post-production challenges. Initially slated for February 9, 2024, it was postponed to avoid a clash with other major releases during the Sankranti season. The film’s OTT release followed on April 26, 2024, on Netflix, where it continued to gain traction among Indian movie lovers.
The production, backed by Sithara Entertainments and Fortune Four Cinemas, began in August 2022 after an announcement in June 2022. With a budget of ₹40 crores, the film’s high production values—evident in its vibrant cinematography by Sai Prakash Ummadisingu and foot-tapping music by Ram Miriyala and Sricharan Pakala—added to its appeal.
Box Office Collection: A Commercial Triumph
Tillu Square was a box office juggernaut, proving its appeal among Indian audiences. Here’s the breakdown:
- Opening Day: ₹23.7 crores worldwide, a massive start for a Telugu comedy.
- First Weekend: ₹68.1 crores globally, showcasing strong word-of-mouth.
- First Four Days: ₹78 crores worldwide, cementing its blockbuster status.
- Total Collection: Estimates suggest it crossed ₹100 crores globally, a rare feat for a comedy-driven film without major action sequences.
Why It Succeeded: The film’s blend of relatable humor, Siddhu’s star power, and a loyal fanbase from DJ Tillu drove its success. Its theatrical run benefited from packed houses, with audiences feeding off the collective laughter—a vibe you can’t replicate on OTT.
Why Tillu Square Resonates with Indian Movie Lovers
For Indian audiences, particularly Telugu cinema fans, Tillu Square is more than a movie—it’s a vibe. The film captures the chaotic, colorful essence of Hyderabad’s youth culture, from its slang-heavy dialogues to its depiction of modern relationships. Lines like Tillu’s exasperated rants about love are already circulating as memes, much like DJ Tillu’s iconic dialogues. It’s the kind of film you quote with friends over chai, laughing at how Tillu’s bad luck feels oddly relatable.
But it’s not perfect. Some fans felt the second half dragged with unnecessary subplots, and Anupama’s performance didn’t always hit the mark. Yet, the film’s ability to keep you laughing, even when the plot wobbles, is a testament to its charm. Have you ever been swept up in a romance only to realize it’s a total mess? That’s Tillu’s life, and it’s why audiences connect.
How Does It Compare to DJ Tillu?
DJ Tillu was a sleeper hit, relying on raw energy and a fresh narrative. Tillu Square ups the ante with higher production values and a more ambitious plot, but it leans heavily on nostalgia. While some critics argue it doesn’t surpass the original’s simplicity, others praise its bolder twists and polished execution. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Humor: Tillu Square matches DJ Tillu’s wit but adds more layered gags.
- Story: The sequel’s crime angle is more complex, though occasionally convoluted.
- Performances: Siddhu shines brighter, but the supporting cast in DJ Tillu felt tighter.
- Cultural Impact: Both films are meme gold, but Tillu Square benefits from a larger budget and wider release.
FAQ: Common Questions About Tillu Square
Who is the lead actress in Tillu Square?
Anupama Parameswaran plays Lilly, the lead female character, alongside Siddhu Jonnalagadda’s Tillu. Neha Shetty also makes a cameo as Radhika.
Is Tillu Square available on OTT?
Yes, it’s streaming on Netflix as of April 26, 2024.
How does Tillu Square compare to DJ Tillu?
It’s a bigger, flashier sequel with more ambitious plotting but retains the same comedic core. Some prefer the original’s simplicity, while others love the sequel’s polish.
What’s the box office collection of Tillu Square?
The film earned ₹78 crores worldwide in its first four days and likely crossed ₹100 crores globally.
Is Tillu Square worth watching in theaters?
Absolutely, especially with a lively crowd. The collective laughter amplifies the experience, though OTT is great for repeat viewings.
Wrapping Up: Why You Should Watch Tillu Square
Tillu Square isn’t just a sequel—it’s a love letter to fans of DJ Tillu and a fresh entry point for new viewers. Its infectious humor, Siddhu’s electric performance, and Hyderabad’s vibrant backdrop make it a standout for Indian movie lovers. Sure, it has its flaws—a slightly laggy second half and a convenient ending—but the laughs are worth it. Whether you catch it on Netflix or relive the theater magic, it’s a film that’ll leave you quoting Tillu’s one-liners for weeks.
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