The Times of India
Jul 12, 2026, 1:58 PM ISTBy Susmita SameeraBoys Never Compromise opens with a mysterious explosion at a secluded party venue known for hosting illegal liquor and drug-fueled gatherings. The blast claimed the lives of over 40 people, yet even years later, the police remain unable to determine whether it was the work of terrorists, gangsters, or something supernatural.The narrative then shifts to a group of eight grown men who, despite their age, continue to evade responsibility. Dragon Doggy (Samraat Parikshith), Whitey (Suprith Kaati), Kabab (Siddu Mandya), Bandli (Hemanth Nag), Bolt (Umesh Kinnal), Maggie (Gajendra Marasanige), Nathu (Raja Raja Chola), and Shining Seetharam gather for a casual drinking session to vent about their personal problems. In a spur-of-the-moment decision, they abandon their responsibilities and set off on a road trip in a TT van.What begins as a carefree journey filled with drinking, smoking, partying, and encounters with a couple of strangers gradually transforms into a supernatural ordeal. Subtle paranormal occurrences initially hint at an unseen presence before the horror escalates, with each member of the group falling victim to possession. Stranded deep in the mountains, they eventually find themselves at the very site of the mysterious explosion. Why have they been brought there? What connection do they share with the ghosts? Will they survive, and will the police finally uncover the truth behind the blast? These questions form the central mystery of the film.Boys Never Compromise attempts to blend adult comedy with horror, centering on a group of friends whose road trip spirals into a paranormal nightmare. For a significant portion of its runtime, the film focuses on the group's carefree lifestyle, with scenic locales serving as the backdrop for endless drinking, partying, and crude humour. The second half shifts more decisively into horror, introducing elements that add some intrigue to the central mystery.From a technical standpoint, the cinematography effectively captures the picturesque road trip setting. The music and background score are serviceable, while the visual effects are adequate enough to support the supernatural elements.However, the film ultimately relies on familiar road-trip tropes, repetitive drunken antics, and humour that rarely rises above its predictable template. Its blend of horror and comedy often feels juvenile and lacking in finesse, making many of its comedic moments fall flat and crass. Viewers seeking a more inventive or well-crafted horror-comedy are unlikely to find much to appreciate here. However, if you enjoy unabashedly adult-oriented road-trip comedies with supernatural elements, you may consider giving it a try.