Unexpected OTT Reviews: Is Dhurandhar Really Just Average?

Dhurandhar’s Netflix release was eagerly awaited by both theatrical viewers and those watching it for the first time. As often seen, the experience differs between theatres and OTT platforms, and this gap has clearly reflected in the audience response after its digital premiere.

While a section of viewers continues to praise the film, a much larger group has voiced disappointment. Many feel that once the messaging and propaganda are set aside, the hype around Dhurandhar does not match the actual content on screen.

Several viewers argue that the film feels average across most aspects. They believe Bollywood has struggled to deliver consistently strong films in recent years, which has allowed an average product like Dhurandhar to appear exceptional by comparison.

According to these reactions, a genuinely strong film should hold up on OTT without relying on spectacle. Critics say Dhurandhar depends heavily on grand entries, loud action blocks, explosions, and shouting, while lacking depth and emotional engagement.

Some viewers also complained about the extended runtime, stating that the film felt tiring and difficult to sit through in one stretch. The pacing, according to them, weakens the overall impact.

The portrayal of exaggerated masculinity and stylised violence reminded many of Animal. Viewers compared Dhurandhar to a reel driven experience, packed with constant background music, on-screen text, and visual prompts that prioritise stimulation over storytelling.

With the film now streaming on Netflix, viewers can pause, skip, and rewatch at will. This flexibility has led to sharper scrutiny, making reactions more critical and unfiltered than during its theatrical run.