Once More (2026): Arjun Das Carries lifts key stretches, not the full runtime
Arjun Das, known for his intense turns, shifts gears as Raghu, a man still nursing a broken heart. His introduction establishes a figure weighed down by loss, and Das plays this with a quiet, internalized tension rather than explosive anger.
It is a performance built on sighs and silences. The actor understands that grief in a romantic drama is about what remains unsaid, and he commits to that register fully.
Aditi Shankar’s Anjali Is The Film’s Active Force, But The Screenplay Holds Her Back
Aditi Shankar’s Anjali is the engine of the plot, the one who actively pursues Raghu and tries to break through his walls. Her energy provides a necessary contrast to Das’s morose stillness, creating a dynamic that keeps the early stretches alive.
However, the writing doesn’t give her enough distinct scenes to build a fully realized character beyond her pursuit. She remains a catalyst for the male lead’s healing rather than a person with her own arc, which limits the film’s emotional ceiling.
The Genre-Core Execution: A Romance Built On Recovery, Not Pursuit
Once More functions as a romantic musical where the central conflict is internal. The primary obstacle isn’t a rival or a misunderstanding, but Raghu’s own refusal to let go of the past. This makes the film’s stakes emotional rather than dramatic, and the pacing reflects that choice.
The “courtship” is one-sided for a long stretch, with Anjali trying different ways to win Raghu’s heart while his family history and emotional baggage collide with hers. This family collision works as a structural device, grounding the romance in tangible social pressure rather than just abstract feelings.
It is a linear, straightforward narrative that trusts the audience to invest in the slow burn. While this works for viewers seeking a contemplative mood, it risks losing those who need more plot momentum or a defined antagonist to drive the second half.
Supporting Cast Signals A World Beyond The Leads, But Remains Undefined
Sona Olickal appears in a supporting role, and her casting suggests the film intends to build a community around the central couple. Yet, without specific scenes to latch onto, her presence feels more like a placeholder for familial warmth than a defined character.
Dravid Selvam and Anusha Prabhu are listed in the cast, but their roles are not specified in the available material. Their inclusion points to a broader ensemble, but the lack of detail on their functions suggests the narrative is laser-focused on the two leads, potentially to the detriment of the world-building around them.
Audience Reception: A Quiet Start With A Modest, Curious Following
The film’s early reception is a study in moderation. It holds a 6.1/10 on IMDb from 196 votes, indicating a niche audience that has engaged with it so far, and an early Filmibeat review gave it a solid 4.0/5.
There are no reported controversies or political angles attached to the production, which keeps the focus squarely on the film’s merits. The chatter is centered on the premise of grief-to-healing romance and the potential chemistry between the leads, which is a positive sign for a film of this scale.
Given the lack of box office data, it’s too early to judge its commercial fate, but the word-of-mouth appears to be the primary driver here. This is a film that will likely find its audience on OTT, where the contemplative pacing and emotional core can be appreciated without the pressure of a theatrical run.
If you are a fan of slow-burn romantic dramas that prioritize mood over plot mechanics, this is worth your time. For those who prefer conflict-driven narratives, the absence of a clear antagonist or dramatic twists might feel underwhelming. Browse more Tamil romantic drama reviews to see how this fits into the larger landscape.
Once More is a sincere, if familiar, exploration of heartbreak that relies heavily on its leads to sell the emotional journey. It’s a film that understands its genre conventions, even if it doesn’t break them.
For a deeper dive into how a single scene can elevate a film despite weak payoffs, check out this analysis of Toxic review.
Arjun Das and Aditi Shankar make this a watchable, gentle drama, but it’s not essential viewing. I’d rate it a modest 2.5/5, a film that will satisfy genre purists but won’t convert skeptics.
See how other Tamil films handle similar emotional arcs by comparing them with Beyond Ratings verdict.
Ankit Jaiswal is the Chief Author, covering Indian cinema and OTT releases with honest, no-filler criticism. An SEO strategist by background, he brings a research-driven approach to film writing, cutting through hype to tell you exactly what's worth your time.
