45 X Review: The Kannada action-drama-thriller 45, directed by music composer Arjun Janya in his first venture as a filmmaker, released in theaters on December 25, 2025. Starring Shiva Rajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B. Shetty in lead roles, the film also features Kaustubha Mani and Rajendran among its supporting cast.
Produced by Ramesh Reddy under the Suraj Productions banner, 45 has been among the most anticipated year-end releases in the Kannada film industry.
Ahead of its nationwide release, 45 held a press show in Bengaluru on December 23, followed by an international premiere. Paid premiere shows in Karnataka took place on December 24, allowing audiences an early opportunity to watch the film before its wide release on Christmas.
Early Audience Reactions
As the film opened across theaters today, viewers began sharing their thoughts on social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter). Initial posts from those who attended the early shows provide a first glimpse of public response. While these reactions do not represent a comprehensive critique, they are indicative of the conversation emerging around the film as it reaches wider audiences. Additional feedback is expected to grow as more screenings conclude throughout the day. A selection of early audience reactions shared on X is presented below.
Cast and Crew Details
45 features a mix of established and emerging talent. Arjun Janya helms the film’s story, direction, and music, while Smt. Uma Ramesh Reddy and M. Ramesh Reddy produced it. The technical crew includes Satya Hegde (cinematography), K. M. Prakash (editing), and Dr. K. Ravivarma, Jolly Bastian, Different Dany, and Chetan D’souza handling action sequences. Chinni Prakash and B. Dhananjay oversaw choreography, with dialogues by Anil Kumar.
The production design is led by Mohan Pandith, with makeup by Uma Maheshwar, costumes by PuttaRaju, Bharath Sagar, and Varshini, and visual effects by Yash Gowda. Additional crew members include co-director Manjunatha Jambe, motion graphics by Prajval Urs, and colour grading by Pathaje Colorbar. Publicity design was managed by Kaani Studio, while digital support and marketing were handled by Sripaada Studios and Action Cut Kiran, respectively.
As 45 continues its first day in theaters, the early reactions on X mark the beginning of the film’s public reception. The day’s screenings will likely provide a clearer picture of how audiences across Karnataka and other regions are responding to the action-packed thriller.