CE Year in Review 2024: Electrifying performances that took us by a storm

The year 2024 was a cinematic whirlwind for Telugu cinema, a feast of contrasts that left audiences both satiated and yearning for more. On one hand, the industry delivered pan-Indian behemoths like Kalki 2898 AD, starring Prabhas, that shook the nation with their scale and ambition. On the other hand, smaller, writing-driven films like 35 quietly took over the audience’s pulse, proving that sometimes, less is more.

A report suggests that a staggering 311 films, including dubbed releases, hit the screens this year. Amid this avalanche of stories, certain performances stood out, leaving us in awe. These weren’t just roles; they were moments of transcendence that captured our hearts, ignited our imaginations, and, in some cases, deserved far better films to match their brilliance. Let’s shine a spotlight on the actors who defined Telugu cinema in 2024.

Mahesh Babu as “The Liberating Ramana Gaadu” in Guntur Kaaram

It’s been a while since we’ve seen Mahesh Babu this hungry to sink his teeth into a character. As Ramana Gaadu in Trivikram Srinivas’s Guntur Kaaram, he carried the weight of an otherwise skeletal plot on his shoulders. The film itself disappointed fans with its bare-bones storytelling, but Mahesh Babu’s portrayal of a man grappling with abandonment struck a universal chord.

Particularly unforgettable is his “dance of depression” in the song ‘Mawaa Enthaina,’ an entertaining yet oddly liberating sequence that became a cultural touchstone on social media in 2024. Ramana Gaadu’s character evolved into a symbol for collective venting—a mirror reflecting the silent struggles of an entire generation. It’s clear that cinema as a medium is not an unpredictable drug. In cases like these, it becomes evident that we, as audiences, aren’t always reliable at judging a piece of work in the first go. We never know when we like, dislike or love a film.

Nivetha Thomas as “The Epic Saraswati” in 35 - Chinna Katha Kaadu

Nivetha Thomas redefined the archetype of the mother figure in Telugu cinema with her nuanced portrayal of Saraswati in 35 - Chinna Katha Kaadu. Her character didn’t need sweeping arcs or grand gestures to leave an impact. Instead, it was in the quiet, unassuming moments like playing chess with her son while cooking or defiantly counting days by sticking bindi to a mirror to challenge her husband’s worldview that Nivetha shone.

Her performance is a masterclass in subtlety, balancing strength and vulnerability with effortless grace. Saraswati is a reminder that epic performances don’t always require epic storylines. Sometimes, it’s the small, intimate moments that resonate the loudest, and Nivetha Thomas made sure her portrayal was unforgettable.

Satya as “The Jazzy Yesudas” in Mathu Vadalara 2

Comedy is an art that rarely gets its due, but Satya’s performance in Mathu Vadalara 2 is impossible to ignore. As Yesudas, he brought a whirlwind of quirks and mannerisms that turned this buddy comedy into a laugh-out-loud crime thriller. His razor-sharp silliness elevated the film from a mere sequel to a standalone delight becoming the meme expression for Gen-Z goofiness. 

Satya’s comedic brilliance reminds us of the era of Brahmanandam, whose presence alone could guarantee a film’s success. In Mathu Vadalara 2, Satya not only carried the film but also cemented his place as a comedic star in Telugu cinema. If he continues to bring this level of freshness to his roles, he might just become this generation’s favorite comedian.

Allu Arjun as “The Blazing Pushpa Raj” in Pushpa 2: The Rule

Allu Arjun once said he wanted to show the world what it means to be a star performer. With Pushpa 2: The Rule, he delivered on that promise and then more. As Pushpa Raj, he exuded a raw intensity that was nothing short of fire.

One scene, in particular, stands out: the pre-interval moment when Pushpa Raj, humiliated after being forced to apologize, reflects on his actions. In this calm before the storm sequence, Allu Arjun’s eyes do all the talking—first thinking about the outsiders, then seeking validation from his wife and friend, and finally confronting himself in the mirror. It’s a pivotal moment, not just for the character but for the actor, who seems to be charting a bold new course for his career. With this tenacity, Allu Arjun is no longer just a star; he’s a force of nature.

SJ Suryah as “The Demon CI Dayanand” in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram

SJ Suryah is a master of menace, and as CI Dayanand in Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, he delivered a performance that was both chilling and layered. Dayanand isn’t your typical sadistic cop; he’s a man shaped by privilege, his father’s favorite child, and his actions are laced with a disturbing sense of entitlement.

In certain scenes, Suryah’s ability to tingle your spine without uttering a single word is unparalleled. Even when the film falters in its storytelling, his portrayal keeps you riveted. With every role, SJ Suryah proves why he’s one of the most electrifying actors in Indian cinema today.

Nithin Prasanna as “The Therapeutic D Salmaan” in Narudi Brathuku Natana

Narudi Brathuku Natana is an underrated gem, and Nithin Prasanna’s portrayal of D Salmaan is its beating heart. In a film that explores the quiet healing power of male friendships, Nithin’s performance is both understated and deeply affecting.

As a half-Telugu, half-Malayali drifter, D Salmaan doesn’t demand attention, yet his presence is magnetic. He embodies the kind of friend who heals without trying, whose mere existence brings comfort. Nithin Prasanna’s portrayal is a love letter to those unspoken bonds that often go unnoticed but are no less profound. It’s a performance that lingers, much like the friendships it celebrates. D Salmaan reminds you so much of those soul-seeking Irrfan Khan’s characters. 

As all of us wait for 2025’s wave of Telugu cinema, these reflections of strong performances render a sense of completion.