Cast
Allu Arjun, Rashmika, Fahadh Faasil, Jagapathi Babu, Sunil, Anasuya, Rao Ramesh, Dhanunjaya, Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari, Tarak Ponnappa, Ajay, Sritejas, and others
Written and Directed by: Sukumar Music: Devi Sri Prasad Cinematography: Miroslaw Kuba Brozek Editing: Naveen Nooli Producers: Naveen Yerneni, Ravi Yalamanchili Production Houses: Mythri Movie Makers, Sukumar Writings Release Date: December 5, 2024
Everyone knows what a sensation “Pushpa” (2021) created when it was released with Allu Arjun in the lead role under Sukumar’s direction. As a result, its sequel “Pushpa 2” has garnered nationwide attention. The movie features Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead opposite Bunny, while Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil plays the antagonist. The already-released trailer, teaser, promotional materials, and marketing campaigns have significantly raised expectations. The film team also conducted promotions in various major cities across the country, further increasing the hype. The film released worldwide on December 5th in Telugu, Hindi, and several other South Indian languages. So how is “Pushpa 2”? Did it impress the audience? Did it achieve blockbuster success? Let’s find out in this review.
Story
Pushparaj (Allu Arjun), who started his journey as a red sandalwood coolie, rises to become the leader controlling a smuggling syndicate. He expands his syndicate’s operations internationally and grows powerful enough to influence politics by funding the ruling party. During this time, his rivalry with SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil) intensifies. Despite his aggressive nature outside, Pushparaj never disobeys his wife Srivalli (Rashmika). One day, when Pushparaj sets out to meet the Chief Minister with MP Siddappa (Rao Ramesh), Srivalli eagerly asks him to get a photo with the CM. However, when Pushpa makes this request, the CM mocks him. This leads Pushpa to challenge that he will make MP Siddappa the Chief Minister. What does Pushpa do to achieve this? What’s his conflict with Central Minister Veera Pratap Reddy (Jagapathi Babu)? What plans does SP Shekhawat devise to stop Pushpa? Does Pushpa keep his promise to Srivalli? The story revolves around these questions.
Performances
Bunny (Allu Arjun) once again excels as Pushpa Raj. He shows even more impact in terms of language and body language. He mesmerizes in fights and dances. Particularly, his acting in the Jatara episode and climax reaches another level. Rashmika as Srivalli delivers a memorable performance with great chemistry alongside Allu Arjun. Compared to the first part, she’s given more glamorous scenes in the sequel. Her performance peaks in many scenes. Sreeleela enchants with the “Kissika” song, dazzling with her dance moves as usual. Fahadh Faasil performs well as Shekhawat, though the character loses some seriousness as the story progresses. Rao Ramesh impresses as the MP. Compared to the first part, Sunil and Anasuya’s roles get less prominence. Jagapathi Babu as the Central Minister and Kannada actor Tarak Ponnappa make their presence felt in the story. Jagadeesh appears in a key role as Allu Arjun’s friend. The rest of the cast performs adequately within their scope.
Direction
Compared to the first part, director Sukumar has expanded Pushpa Raj’s territory further. He has incorporated his trademark psychological elements and mind games into the story. He keeps the audience energized with hero elevations throughout. Allu Arjun’s introduction, the Tom and Jerry fight between Pushpa and Shekhawat, and the strategic moves are well portrayed. Though the story seems to move slowly, the interval bang takes it to another level. While showing Pushpa’s business and political empires, the director effectively portrays his affection for Srivalli. The love and chemistry between Pushpa and Srivalli appear cute on screen. In the second half, the Gangamma Jatara episode is the highlight of the movie. Sukumar excellently showcases heroism and family emotions in this episode. The fights and family emotions in the climax are entertaining. However, the lack of strong villainy and excessive runtime can be considered drawbacks. In the crucial scenes, Sukumar has laid the groundwork for “Pushpa 3” with a twist and turn.
Technical Aspects
Technically, the movie is brilliant, with every department delivering excellent work. Devi Sri Prasad impresses with both songs and background score. Another music director, Sam CS, also captures attention with his background score. Kuba’s camera work is a major plus for the movie, grandly capturing every episode. Srikant Vissa’s dialogues are engaging. The editing could have been more careful. Mythri Movie Makers’ production values are top-notch, with richness visible in every scene.
Plus Points:
- Allu Arjun’s performance
- Action sequences
- Jatara episode
- Music
Minus Points:
- Weakened villainy
- Second half pacing
