Rajkummar Rao Turns Ruthless Power Player in Gritty ‘Maalik’ Trailer
The much-anticipated trailer of Maalik, starring Rajkummar Rao, was unveiled on Tuesday afternoon, offering a gritty glimpse into a world ruled by violence and ambition. Set in a state resembling Uttar Pradesh, the film appears to dive deep into the murky waters of crime and politics.
Rao steps into the role of Maalik, a fearsome local strongman whose influence stretches far and wide. With a loyal gang by his side and a growing hunger for power, Maalik sets his sights on the Vidhan Sabha, determined to climb the political ladder. However, as his grip tightens, the political establishment begins to feel threatened, and the opposition vows to dismantle his empire at any cost.
Maalik also seems to dive into a dark tale of revenge, where the central character doesn’t hesitate to resort to brutal violence when wronged. In one intense moment from the trailer, he even boasts that he’ll reduce the city to ruins with his bullets, underlining the rage that fuels his actions. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Manushi Chhillar, Saurabh Shukla, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Huma Qureshi, and Swanand Kirkire, among others.
Directed by Pulkit—who previously helmed Bhakshak starring Bhumi Pednekar and the Rajkummar Rao-led web series Bose: Dead/Alive—Maalik seems to aim for the gritty, layered storytelling style of Gangs of Wasseypur, but on a more expansive scale. In recent years, stories set in North India that blend crime, politics, and power—like Mirzapur and several others—have found immense popularity on OTT platforms. These narratives often revolve around gangsters who not only run thriving illegal businesses but also wield significant political influence.
Maalik now attempts to bring that same raw energy and intrigue to the big screen. Whether it offers something fresh or just follows a well-worn path remains to be seen. Some might compare it to Pushpa, which, while similar in theme, stood out due to its distinctive setting and cultural flavor.
Maalik comes after Rajkummar Rao’s blockbuster Stree 2, which grossed nearly ₹600 crore and became the biggest hit of his career. Since then, he appeared in Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, which failed to leave a mark, and Bhool Chuk Maaf, which earned around ₹70 crore in just a two-week run. With Maalik, Rao takes on a massy role for the first time—one where his character’s sense of justice is driven by bullets, not boundaries.
Get ready for a gripping ride—Maalik promises high-octane action, raw drama, and a powerhouse performance by Rajkummar Rao. Don’t miss this action-packed thriller when it hits the big screen!