Pushpa 2: The Rule takes the stakes and magnanimity of its predecessor to further heights. Allu Arjun is again riveting viewers through his performances as the fierce and swagger-filled Pushpa Raj, but the sequel isn’t without its shortcomings. While the electrifying on-screen presence of Allu Arjun, coupled with massy moments, gives it an exciting ride, the pacing of the film goes amiss in many places, and even some of the subplots are left underdeveloped.
Star Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, Jagadeesh Pratap Bhandari, Rao Ramesh, Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj
Director: Sukumar
What’s Good: Allu Arjun unleashes his wildfire like nobody’s business, cinematography, action sequences, and dialogues, which will invite some more hooting and whistles this time. Fahadh Faasil’s performance
What’s Bad: Some unnecessary sub-plots only add to the pace of the film laboriously, some action sequences threaten to go over the top, the romantic scenes look borderline cringe at some point, the dance numbers and the choreography just do not land like the OG film
Loo Break: You can take one during the ‘Kissik’ and the ‘Peelings’ song. You won’t miss anything worthwhile.
Watch or Not? This is inevitably a treat for all the Allu Arjun fans out there, irrespective of some of the flaws
Available On: Theatrical Release
Runtime: 200 minutes
Plot Summary: Pushpa Raj’s Success and Struggle
In Pushpa 2: The Rule, Pushpa Raj is not a criminal but a wildfire. Having established an empire through the smuggling of red sandalwood, Pushpa commands a whole syndicate, dominating politicians, police, and businessmen through bribes and power. The more the film progresses, the larger-than-life character of Pushpa grows, making him a force to be reckoned with in South India.
But Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, played by Fahadh Faasil, returns to seek revenge. The tension in the movie builds as Pushpa faces not only this familiar nemesis but also a range of new enemies and personal conflicts. The relationship between Pushpa and his wife, Srivalli, played by Rashmika Mandanna, throughout the film is a grounding force and depicts the softer side of his character. Nevertheless, with as many subplots that have been carried into this film, the movie’s pacing suffers sometimes and drags the narrative.
Analysis of Script: The Mashup of Mass and Intensity
Writer-director Sukumar, along with co-writer Srikanth Vissa, weaves action scenes with healthy dialogues that keep one interested in the movie throughout. It is particularly so in the first half, where Pushpa, as a fearless leader, transforms into a vulnerable man handling the emotional burden of the past.
There are several iconic moments that stir up the audience, like Pushpa buying a helicopter just for showing off his flamboyant image. Such moments give Allu Arjun all the opportunities to perform and leave the audience entranced by his magnetic presence on screen. The major problem with this film is its overstretched storyline. It overflows the film because there’s a cat-and-mouse chase with Shekhawat, Pushpa’s strained relationship with his stepbrother’s family, political conspiracies, and power struggles within his syndicate.
Many of these subplots could have been cut down or even done away with to keep the narrative focused. Further, the movie introduces a romance subplot between Pushpa and Srivalli. In this, the “peelings” gag, although supposed to be funny, is cringeworthy. Last but not least, Shekhawat’s villainous arc does not grow much, and thus, Faasil’s performance is redundant.
Star Performances: Allu Arjun and Fahadh Faasil Shine
The Pushpa 2 still lives and breathes because of Allu Arjun. His performances take the character of Pushpa Raj to a new high, and all credit has to go to the actor who has emerged as a mass hero. From the way he walks to the style and content of his dialogues, he owns the role. That emotional depth in scenes that make him introspect his troubled past proves the versatility of the actor. The standout in his performance is an intense Ma Kaali-inspired performance that brings to life the raw intensity of his character.
Fahadh Faasil plays Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, and even though there is no development to speak of in his character, his portrayal of a vengeful villain is riveting. Faasil does extremely well in scenes where his character is outsmarted by Pushpa, showcasing both desperation and cunning quite convincingly.
Rashmika Mandanna gives the role a much broader dimension than in the first movie. In this sequel, Srivalli is no longer just a supportive wife; she is a strong woman who protects her husband. She is not afraid of anyone and does not take things lying down. Many shades the heroine brings to her character. More so, while declaring Pushpa as a “brand” before everyone that talks volumes about her loyalty and pride over him. Others are in Jagadeesh Pratap Bhandari, Rao Ramesh, and Anasuya Bharadwaj, with each having his unique contribution to the character in hand.
Direction and Music: Mass Appeal with Some Shortcomings
Sukumar’s direction retains the mass appeal of the film and creates intense sequences that keep the audience engaged. However, as discussed above, the film falters at the issue of pacing. The overly complex narrative and excessive subplots hinder the flow of the film, making it more like a stretched saga than a streamlined story.
The background score is an enormous asset in terms of the music. It goes well in creating all the tension and amplifying the dramatic moments, especially in the climax of the film. Where soundtracks are concerned, however, Devi Sri Prasad does not live up to the standard that the first film set for the music. When Shreya Ghoshal sings “Angaron Ka,” it is indeed a very memorable rendition; however, tracks like “Peelings” and “Kissik” don’t have much to say about them. The lyrics and choreography stand as really awkward and detract from the overall impact.
Conclusion: Allu Arjun’s Stardom Still Shines Bright Despite Flaws:
Technically imperfect, Pushpa 2: The Rule will still be a thrilling film with Allu Arjun’s outstanding performance. Action, confrontations, emotional moments, and everything needed to keep a fan of the franchise will be satisfied. Overstuffing with a narrative may marred some issues with pacing that affect viewership, but the film’s mass appeal and great memorable performances make the ride well worth it.
The film ends with a climax that will make viewers not forget Pushpa’s reign ever. Despite the shortcomings of the film, Pushpa 2 is a must-watch for all Allu Arjun and mass cinema fans.
Pushpa 2: The Rule released on 5th December, 2024.
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