OTT Release of The Raja Saab Triggers Strong Backlash From Streaming Audiences

Prabhas’ big-budget horror-fantasy The Raja Saab has landed on OTT, but the film’s digital premiere has sparked a wave of sharp criticism from streaming audiences. Released on Jio Hotstar in multiple languages, the Maruthi-directed film is facing a far harsher response online than it did during its theatrical run.

Soon after the OTT debut, social media platforms were flooded with screenshots and clips pointing out what viewers described as glaring issues — ranging from logic gaps and weak visual effects to inconsistent execution. Many viewers who hoped the film would feel better on the small screen were left disappointed.

OTT audiences, known for their unforgiving scrutiny, have been closely analysing the film frame by frame. With the ability to pause and rewind, several scenes have come under fire for poor VFX work, awkward face-swapping, uneven direction, outdated comedy, and performances that failed to connect.

Body double usage draws criticism

One of the most widely discussed points online is the extensive use of body doubles. Viewers have noted that in several scenes — including simple moments like walking or sitting — Prabhas appears to be replaced by a dupe, with heavy reliance on face-swapping technology. In one sequence, audiences even claimed to spot mismatched hands, fuelling further trolling.

A comment that went viral read, “When dupe screen time feels more than hero screen time, the result is The Raja Saab.”

Comedy and performances questioned

The film’s comedy portions, particularly those involving Prabhas Srinu and Sapthagiri, were also poorly received. OTT viewers showed little patience for the humour, calling it outdated and ineffective. Several fans openly tagged director Maruthi on social media, questioning the creative choices behind the film.

Even Prabhas has not been spared from criticism. Some viewers felt his performance lacked energy in key scenes, including emotional moments. His drunken act, in particular, was cited as one of the weaker aspects, with some suggesting it may have contributed to the heavy use of body doubles.

Music and execution under fire

Thaman’s background score also attracted negative feedback, with many calling it excessively loud and distracting. Viewers questioned how certain shots and sequences made it to the final cut, with some admitting they struggled to fully follow the narrative even after rewatching portions of the film.

Trade observers and fans alike believe the responsibility does not rest on the director alone. Online discussions suggest that creative approvals, storyline choices, and execution decisions collectively impacted the film’s outcome.

Impact on Prabhas’ film choices

Following the mixed-to-poor theatrical response, the OTT backlash has further intensified scrutiny around Prabhas’ recent VFX-heavy projects. After Adipurush, which was widely seen as a turning point, The Raja Saab has reignited conversations about script selection and creative control.

With the film now facing widespread online criticism, attention has shifted to Prabhas’ upcoming projects, particularly Spirit, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, which many believe could play a crucial role in reshaping the actor’s box-office narrative.