The Girlfriend (2025) starring Rashmika Mandanna, directed and written by Rahul Ravindran, has become one of the most emotionally powerful and discussion-driven films of the year. Released originally in Telugu and later dubbed in Hindi, the film explores modern relationships, compatibility, trauma, and a woman’s emotional journey through love and self-discovery.

From the moment the trailer dropped, expectations were high—and the film not only matched them but delivered a narrative that sparked national conversation.

Storyline – The Girlfriend (2025)

The story follows Bhooma (Rashmika Mandanna), a bright young college girl who enters into a relationship believing in love, trust, and emotional connection. As she navigates college life, she experiences the joys of companionship—but soon realizes that love is not always gentle.

What makes The Girlfriend compelling is its unapologetic portrayal of a woman’s perspective—something very rare in mainstream Indian cinema. Bhooma’s journey is not about revenge or melodrama; it is about understanding her worth, healing, and choosing herself.

Audience & Critics Reaction – What People Are Saying

Reviews of The Girlfriend have ranged from emotional praise to bold analytical takes. Here’s a combined and refined version of the best points from viewers across platforms:

Watch Trailer : 

Strong Review

The Girlfriend is one of the most powerful women-centric films in recent times. Rashmika Mandanna delivers her career-best performance, portraying Bhooma with vulnerability, courage, emotional intelligence, and unmatched conviction.

Rahul Ravindran’s writing is honest, bold, and deeply emotional. He does not glorify the hero or villainize the woman—he simply presents reality, the kind that many women experience but rarely talk about.

The music by Hesham Abdul Wahab elevates every emotional moment. The visuals, pacing, and character arcs feel organic and impactful.

The climax hits hard—so intense that many viewers reported feeling shaken and emotional. It forces the audience to question toxic masculinity, control, emotional abuse, and the silence around trauma.

Overall, it is a must-watch film that challenges societal norms and brings essential conversations into the mainstream.

Theatre Response – How The Film Performed in Cinemas

Even though the movie received massive appreciation, emotional reviews, and strong word-of-mouth, its theatrical performance had surprising results.

✔ Positive Response

• Audiences praised Rashmika’s performance heavily.

• The emotional impact created strong discussions online.

• Women, especially college students, connected deeply with Bhooma’s journey.

✔ Negative Response / Challenges

• Some sections of the audience felt uncomfortable with the movie’s theme.

• It called out toxic boyfriends, which many people found confronting.

• The first half felt slightly slow for viewers wanting a more commercial film.

Despite brilliant writing and exceptional reviews, the film couldn’t achieve blockbuster numbers because of its fearless, realistic, women-centric storytelling.

Also read. : Most Awaited Indian Movies of 2026: A Year of Thrill, Emotion, and Big-Screen Entertainment

Box Office Performance – The Girlfriend (2025)

Although critically acclaimed, The Girlfriend did not perform strongly at the box office. Despite a strong opening buzz, collections dropped due to mixed mass-audience reception.

Worldwide Gross:

$6,708 (approx.) as per available data.
(The number reflects limited theatrical run + niche audience pull.)

Reason for Low Box Office:

• Audience resistance toward woman-centric narratives

• Emotional, realistic tone (not a commercial entertainer)

• Social discomfort around the film’s themes

• Heavy competition during release period

However, the movie is expected to gain a cult following on OTT, where emotional and message-driven films usually perform extremely well.

The Girlfriend (2025)

Should You Watch It?

Absolutely Yes.
If you enjoy movies that are meaningful, emotional, and character-driven, The Girlfriend (2025) is a must-watch. Rashmika Mandanna carries the entire film with brilliance. It’s not just a movie—it’s a conversation starter about trauma, love, respect, and understanding a woman’s emotional journey.

While its box office numbers may be low, its impact, message, and emotional strength make it one of the most important films of 2025.