Cast: Raghava Lawrence, Kangana Ranaut, Vadivelu, Radhika Sarath Kumar, Mahima Nambiar, Lakshmi Menon, and more.
Cinematography: RD Rajasekhar
Music: MM Keeravani
Produced by: Lyca Productions, Subaskaran
Directed by: P. Vasu
Release Date: September 28, 2023
The air is filled with anticipation as “Chandramukhi 2,” a horror-comedy directed by P.Vasu, hits the theaters. It follows the 2004 blockbuster “Chandramukhi,” and while Superstar Rajinikanth dazzled in the original, Raghava Lawrence takes the lead in this sequel. With Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut playing the titular role, and teasers, trailers, and promotional material generating buzz, let’s see if the movie lives up to its expectations.
The Plot
Ranganayaki’s (Radhika Sarath Kumar) sprawling family finds themselves amid unforeseen dilemmas. A sage advises a ritual in their family temple as a solution, leading them, including Madan (Raghava Lawrence), to the vicinity of the infamous Chandramukhi Palace. Basavayya (Vadivelu) now reigns over the estate. As the family sets up in the mansion for the ceremony, a warning against accessing the southern part of the mansion goes unheeded. The film unfolds the eerie consequences and the roles of Kangana Ranaut and Vetayya Raju/Sengotayya (also played by Raghava Lawrence) in this narrative.
Impressions
The narrative paces leisurely in the first half, with Vadivelu’s comedic attempts not landing as expected. The momentum gains near the interval, offering an anticipatable yet engaging twist. The film’s second half witnesses fluctuations in its narrative tempo. The romantic subplot feels derivative, but when the backstory of Vetayya Raju kicks in, the pace resumes. Both Raghava Lawrence and Kangana Ranaut’s portrayals shine, even if the flashbacks are limited. The climax feels familiar, echoing the original.
Performances
Raghava Lawrence, no rookie to the horror genre, delivers a stellar performance, especially shining in the period role of Vetaiya Raju/Sengotaiya. Kangana Ranaut, stepping into the shoes of Chandramukhi, is captivating. Yet, her performance seems subdued when compared to Jyothika’s portrayal in the original. Other cast members, including Rao Ramesh and Vadivelu, play their parts commendably.
Direction Insights
Director Vasu seems to have borrowed heavily from the original, with various elements feeling eerily similar. The narrative sometimes comes off as a mere reshuffling of the original script. However, Vasu’s signature touch gleams in specific sequences.
Technical Take
Oscar-winner MM Keeravani’s musical score feels underwhelming, barring Kangana’s introductory song and a war-sequence background score reminiscent of Baahubali. Lyca Productions doesn’t compromise on production values, and RD Rajasekhar’s cinematography stands out.
Pros
Lawrence and Kangana’s acting prowess
Effective horror sequences
Stunning cinematography
Cons
Lack of freshness
Some clichéd sequences
Underwhelming music
