Bharateeyudu 2 Review: Kamal Haasan Returns, but Does the Sequel Match the Original’s Brilliance?

Cast: Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani, Vivek

Director: Shankar

Music: Anirudh Ravichander

Cinematographer: Ravi Varman

Editor: Sreekar Prasad

Producer: Allirajah Subaskaran

Release Date: 12-07-2024

Kamal Haasan and director Shankar’s original film, ‘Bharateeyudu‘, which debuted twenty-five years ago, became a sensation for its intense critique of corruption and bribery. The sequel, titled ‘Bharateeyudu 2‘, was released in theaters on July 12. Alongside Kamal Haasan, the film stars Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, S.J. Surya, Bobby Simha, Brahmanandam, and Samuthirakani in pivotal roles. Has this film met expectations? Has Kamal Haasan once again captivated audiences as Bharateeyudu2? Let’s explore in this review.

Plot

Aravindan (Siddharth) and his friends fight against corruption and injustices within the country. They spread awareness through social media videos and urge the return of Bharateeyudu. In response, the veteran freedom fighter Senapathi (Kamal Haasan), known for his previous anti-corruption crusades, returns to India. He takes decisive action against those deeply involved in corruption and motivates the youth. However, unexpected developments stir public dissent against Bharateeyudu. What exactly unfolded? Why did the public turn against Senapathi? What triggered their anger? Did Bharateeyudu succeed in his objectives upon returning? This forms the crux of the story.

Performance 

In ‘Bharateeyudu 2’, Kamal Haasan delivers a virtuoso performance, reprising the role of Senapathi with remarkable skill. Siddharth also stands out in a pivotal role. Rakul Preet Singh and S.J. Surya enhance the film with their performances, although their characters are somewhat underdeveloped. The rest of the cast delivers adequate performances.

Direction

Director Shankar seems to have merely repeated the narrative of Bharateeyudu. He updated an outdated story to fit modern times, focusing the sequel on showcasing how Bharateeyudu would eliminate corruption today. Shankar’s usual flair is missing in the direction. The screenplay is lackluster, and even Kamal Haasan’s introduction isn’t as engaging. While some scenes are well-executed, others fail to make an impact. However, Kamal Haasan’s chase sequences and the fight scenes with terrorists are highlights. The social message adds some strength to the film, but the lack of father-daughter sentiment and uninspiring songs from the first film negatively impact this one. Overall, the sequel fails to mesmerize the audience as Senapathi did before.

Technical Aspects

On the technical front, the music by Anirudh Ravichander isn’t memorable, though the background score is good. However, in some scenes, the BGM dominates too much. The cinematography is commendable, and the editing is passable. The production values are high, showing no compromise on spending.

Plus Points

• Kamal Haasan’s acting
• The message
• Action sequences

Minus Points

• Outdated story
• Weak screenplay
• Lack of emotional impact
• Dragging scenes

Telugu.yousay.tv Rating : 2.5/5  

Public Talk: What Are Netizens Saying?

On Twitter, ‘Bharateeyudu 2’ is receiving mixed reactions. While a few comment that the film is good, many are posting that it’s a flop, surrounding it with negative talk. Some even question if Shankar really directed the film.

A netizen on Twitter called ‘Bharateeyudu 2’ a disaster, expressing dissatisfaction with its boring and outdated story.

Another netizen said the story progresses boringly. They noted that the first half lacks gripping and exciting sequences.

One person tweeted that the movie was discouraging, with a very poor screenplay and emotional scenes that didn’t work, making ‘Indian 3’ seem unlikely.

A netizen named Vijay posted that ‘Indian 2’ was a below-average film. However, they found the trailer for ‘Indian 3’ played during the climax somewhat interesting, raising hopes for the next installment.

Another netizen praised ‘Bharateeyudu 2’, complimenting Shankar’s direction as next-level and Kamal Haasan’s acting and action sequences. They gave the movie a four-star rating.