Prabhas’s ‘Salaar’ movie review: A Cinematic Saga of Power and Friendship

Cast: Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruti Haasan, Jagapathi Babu, Bobby Simha, Tinu Anand, Easwari Rao, Shriya Reddy, and others.

Writer and Director: Prashant Neel

Music: Ravi Basrur

Cinematography: Bhuvan Gowda

Editing: Ujwal Kulkarni

Producer: Vijay Kiragandur

Release Date: 22-12-2023

‘Salaar’ is a film featuring pan-India star Prabhas, directed by Prashant Neel of ‘KGF’ fame. In this film, Malayalam star Prithviraj Sukumaran plays a friend to Prabhas’s character. Shruti Haasan is the female lead. The anticipation for this movie has been high, and the recent release of its teaser and trailer has only heightened the expectations. Amidst great fanfare, ‘Salaar’ has been released worldwide. Does the film live up to Prabhas’s image? Does it add another blockbuster to director Prashant Neel’s repertoire? Let’s find out.

Story:

Set in the kingdom of Khansar, ruled by Raja Mannar (Jagapathi Babu), the story unfolds in a realm controlled by feudal lords. Plots for the throne begin to emerge, leading to a conspiracy against Raja Mannar. To claim the throne, his son Varad Mannar (Prithviraj Sukumaran) calls upon his childhood friend Deva (Prabhas) to challenge the lords. How does Deva confront the army of lords? What does he do for his dear friend Varad? How does he earn the title ‘Salaar’? And how does Aadya (Shruti Haasan) enter their lives? The movie unravels these questions.

Performances:

Post ‘Baahubali’, Prabhas impresses in ‘Salaar’ with his powerful action scenes. His portrayal as a devoted son and a loyal friend is captivating. His heroism and style, especially in the battle scenes, are commendable. Although Shruti Haasan’s role isn’t central, she plays a key part in the first half. Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers an excellent performance, with great chemistry between him and Prabhas. Other cast members like Eeswari Rao, Bobby Simha, Jagapathi Babu, Mime Gopi, Shriya Reddy, Jhansi, and John Vijay perform well within their roles.

Direction:

Director Prashant Neel has marked his signature style with ‘Salaar’. He creates a fictional world named Khansar and weaves an intriguing story around it. While ‘Salaar’ has more drama compared to the action and elevation scenes of ‘KGF’, Prashant Neel skillfully blends mass and action elements to suit Prabhas’s image. The grandeur in Prabhas’s elevation scenes is a treat for fans. However, the political drama around the throne and family dynamics sometimes feel cluttered. The second half lacks a smooth narrative. Overall, Prashant Neel manages to engage the average viewer with his drama.

Technical Aspects:

The film excels technically. The depiction of the world of Khansar is captivating. Ravi Basrur’s music and background score, along with Bhuvan Gowda’s cinematography, are the main strengths of the film. Anbariv’s stunts are impressive. The production values are high, with no compromise from the producer.

Plus Points:

• Acting by Prabhas and Prithviraj
• Action scenes
• Emotional elements, climax

Minus Points:

• Some scenes in the second half

Rating: 3.5/5