What The Fish (also stylized as WTF – What The Fish) is an upcoming Telugu-language dark comedy thriller directed by debutant Varun Korukonda. Produced by Vishal Bezawada and Surya Bezawada under the 6ix Cinemas banner, the film marks a significant comeback for Rocking Star Manchu Manoj after a hiatus, alongside Niharika Konidela’s return to the big screen after four years (her last was Suryakantham in 2019).
The story blends high-octane thrills with family-oriented humor, promising a chaotic, fish-themed narrative—though plot specifics remain under wraps, teasers hint at eccentric mishaps and ensemble antics. As of November 16, 2025, the film has not yet been released in theaters; it’s slated for a 2025 theatrical rollout, likely in the first half of the year.
What the Fish Cast and Crew Highlights
- Lead: Manchu Manoj (in the titular or central role, bringing his signature high-energy style).
- Key Supporting: Niharika Konidela (crucial role, adding Mega family flair), Aditi Karnawat (as Zara), Satya Akkala, Vennela Kishore, Johnson D M, Harinath Policherla, and Susmita Chatterjee.
- Director/Writer: Varun Korukonda (fresh voice aiming for a mix of comedy and suspense).
- Music: Likely handled by an in-house team, with no major announcements yet.
The ensemble suggests a lively, character-driven romp, with Manoj’s intensity balanced by Konidela’s charm and comic relief from veterans like Vennela Kishore.
Release and Buzz Announced in January 2023, the project gained traction with a stylish teaser dropped in May 2023 on YouTube, showcasing Manoj in a quirky, fast-paced setup. Niharika’s first-look poster was unveiled on her birthday in December 2023, building hype around her post-hiatus avatar. Recent updates (as of mid-2024) confirm ongoing shoots, with additional cast reveals emphasizing a diverse, youthful vibe.
No OTT platform has been confirmed, but expect a theatrical push followed by streaming on major Telugu hubs like Aha or Netflix. Box office expectations are moderate—riding on Manoj’s fanbase and the novelty of the premise—but it could surprise if the dark comedy lands well.
Pre-Release Verdict and Expectations Without a full release, formal reviews aren’t available yet. However, early teasers and announcements paint it as a “dark comedy and high-octane thrilling family entertainer,” potentially echoing the chaotic energy of films like Andhadhun or Telugu hits like Evaru. Strengths could lie in its original script and Manoj’s transformation (he’s reportedly bulked up for the role), but debut directors often face pacing pitfalls in blending thrills with laughs. Fan chatter on platforms like Reddit’s r/tollywood is cautiously optimistic, with excitement over the Manoj-Niharika pairing but skepticism about the title’s quirkiness.
Anticipated Rating: 3/5 (based on teaser vibes and cast synergy—could climb to 3.5 if the humor bites). Watch for the trailer drop soon; it’ll be the real hook. If you’re a Manoj loyalist or crave offbeat Telugu fare, this one’s worth queuing up. Stay tuned for post-release updates!