“I’m Game” Review: Dulquer Salmaan Dazzles, But the Story Fumbles

“I’m Game,” directed by Nahas Hidayath, hit theaters on September 3 with big expectations riding on DQ’s homecoming after “King of Kotha.” The verdict? A visually slick first half that loses its grip by the finish line.

I’m Game: Overview

What Works

The film follows Dan John, a risk-loving gambler whose ties to a betting empire spiral into chaos after a hand transplant. It’s a genuinely novel premise for Malayalam cinema, and the production values back it up — sleek visuals, confident action choreography, and a standout musical contribution from Jakes Bejoy. Dulquer Salmaan carries much of the film through sheer screen presence, playing the brat archetype he’s known for with real charm.

Where It Falls Short

The emotional core simply doesn’t land. Once the interval hits, the narrative slows to a crawl, trading tension for a routine revenge plot that strips away suspense. Supporting characters — including Mysskin as the antagonist and Antony Varghese Pepe in a pivotal arc — don’t get the material to leave a mark. Despite strong technical work in cinematography and production design, tighter editing could have saved the back half from feeling stretched thin.

The Bottom Line

“I’m Game” is technically impressive and undeniably stylish, but an underwhelming script keeps it from being more than a passable one-time watch — proof that even a strong lead performance can’t fully rescue a shaky screenplay.

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