Once More Review: Arjun Das and Aditi Shankar’s Second-Chance Romance Divides Audiences

Movie Review

Once More

★ 6.5/10 Good

Director

Vignesh Srikanth

Cast

Arjun Das, Aditi Shankar, Sona Olickal

Release Date

August 28, 2026

Verdict: A warm, music-driven romantic drama that charms in parts with strong performances and feel-good moments, but loses steam with a predictable second half.

Pros:
• Hesham Abdul Wahab’s songs and score elevate emotional scenes
• Arjun Das and Aditi Shankar’s natural chemistry
• Pleasant first-half moments and visuals

Cons:
• Familiar story that becomes predictable after interval
• Uneven pacing in the latter half

About Once More 2026

Once More arrived in theatres on 28 August 2026 as a Tamil romantic musical from debut director Vignesh Srikanth. Produced by Million Dollar Studios, it stars Arjun Das opposite Aditi Shankar, with Sona Olickal in a key role.

The film centres on themes of heartbreak, healing and second chances, set against a backdrop of different families and emotional worlds. Early audience response has been mixed but largely polite. BookMyShow ratings hovered in the 7.5–8.5 range in the first day or two, while conversations on X reflected both appreciation and reservations.

Many viewers called it a feel-good watch, while others found the story familiar and the second half less engaging. The story follows Raghu, a man still carrying the weight of past pain and barely getting through each day. When the bright and determined Anjali enters his life, she slowly chips away at his walls. As their connection grows, the pull of old relationships and the clash of two different worlds create new complications.

The film keeps its focus on emotions, quiet moments and the idea that love can return in unexpected ways, without relying on big twists. On X and other platforms, the most consistent praise went to the music. Hesham Abdul Wahab’s songs and background score were repeatedly called the film’s biggest strength, with tracks like Vaa Kannamma and Idhayam lingering with viewers.

Arjun Das earned special mention for showing two very different sides of his character—one more open and one withdrawn—and for delivering a softer, more vulnerable performance than his usual intense roles. Aditi Shankar’s lively presence and the easy chemistry between the leads also drew warm comments.

Several posts highlighted the pleasant first half, real-location visuals and the overall positive vibe. Common complaints centred on pacing and predictability. Many felt the second half slowed down or leaned on familiar romantic-drama patterns.

Some described the writing as rushed in places or said the film worked better as a one-time theatre watch rather than something to revisit. A few suggested it might land better on streaming for those who prefer slower, emotional stories.

Once More will appeal most to viewers who enjoy soft Tamil romantic dramas with good music and sincere performances. Its strengths lie in the leads’ chemistry, the soundtrack and a handful of tender scenes that feel genuine.

The weaknesses are a story that rarely surprises and a second half that does not match the first half’s charm. It is worth catching in theatres if you like feel-good romances and want to experience the songs on a big screen. Others may prefer waiting for streaming, where the slower rhythm might feel less demanding.

Disclaimer: This review is based on publicly available audience reactions and discussions on X at the time of writing. Individual opinions may vary.