Australian cricket sensation David Warner has taken a surprising detour into the world of Indian cinema with his much-anticipated debut in the Telugu movie Robinhood. Directed by Venky Kudumula, the movie sees Warner in a special cameo role, bringing a unique blend of cricket and cinema to the big screen. Known for his dynamic presence on the cricket field, Warner’s transition to acting has been met with a curious mix of excitement and skepticism.
This film, led by stars Nithiin and Sreeleela, tells the story of a modern-day Robin Hood. Nithiin steps into the role of a thief who turns into a bodyguard, adding new dimensions to the classic legend. Joining them are a talented ensemble including Vennela Kishore, Rajendra Prasad, and Shine Tom Chacko, with a sizzling item number by Ketika Sharma. The film's high-spirited narrative is underscored by GV Prakash Kumar's music and Sai Sriram's cinematographic finesse.
Initially slated for a December 2024 release, the movie hit theaters on March 28, 2025, following some production delays. Warner filmed his scenes amidst his IPL 2024 commitments, demonstrating his versatility and dedication to both sports and the cinematic arts. For his contribution, Warner earned a handsome ₹3 crore, securing a notable position for an athlete entering film.
The production, backed by Mythri Movie Makers, saw Warner actively embracing the promotional circuit in Hyderabad. He engaged with fans fervently, using social media platforms to connect and build anticipation. Despite his enthusiasm, the film's promotion wasn't without bumps. Notably, veteran actor Rajendra Prasad's comments about Warner sparked some backlash, and there were murmurs of discontent surrounding the film's item song, Adhi Dha Surprisu.
As Robinhood premiered, it drew a spectrum of responses. Critics and audiences were divided, with opinions ranging on the film’s innovative approach to a beloved archetype and Warner's unexpected but spirited participation. For some, the blend of heist action and comedy hit the mark; others felt the film could have pushed its creative boundaries further. Nonetheless, Warner’s entrance into acting has piqued interest and added an intriguing chapter to his already diverse career.
