Reviews
Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2 (2024)
International fire
Pushpa 2
Story: Despite becoming a syndicate boss, how Pushparaj rules the game, even with his ego, and how he faces off with Shikawat (Fafa) while also crossing borders to smuggle red sandalwood is the crux of the story. The film portrays the transformation of Pushparaj, a man with no family name, into the infamous "Mulletti Pushparaj."
Analysis: Sukumar's direction, the cinematography, the gripping songs (especially the "Peelings" and "Kissack" songs), and the background score are remarkable. The introduction, interval sequence, and the high-energy 'Jathara' scene lasting 20-30 minutes were standouts. The more you discuss that sequence, the less it feels. Sukumar's vision, and Allu Arjun's intense performance, have raised the bar. Rashmika's portrayal of Shikawat's role left a significant impact. Devi Sri Prasad's music, with the choreography, added a unique flavor to the film. The film overall delivers a new style of storytelling, bringing in a strong 'Pushpa' rule. Pushpa redefines the tone of Telugu cinema in Indian box offices.
My Rating: 4.5/5
Final Line: If one can stand and dance in a storm with every hair on their body rising, that's exactly what the rule of Pushpa is like.
Kanguva (2024)
One time watch kanguva
Title: Kanguva
Plot: Thousands of years ago, there was a powerful leader, Kanguva (Surya ), among the Pranavadi clan. Kanguva adopts Palavu, a young boy who loses his parents due to Kanguva's actions. The story unravels why Kanguva felt compelled to accept Palavu as his son, the promise he gave to Palavu, and how in the present day, Palavu escapes from a high-security lab that conducts experiments on the brain to find his way to Pranavadi (surya ). When the lab agents recapture Palavu, will Pranavadi be able to save him? The film delves into the mysterious relationship between Kanguva, Pranavadi, and Palavu.
Analysis: The first 15-20 minutes may feel somewhat confusing or pointless, but the film picks up once the character of Kanguva is introduced. Surya and Bobby Deol deliver strong performances, and the camerawork is impressive. However, the movie lacks slow-motion shots, which are usually essential in films like these. Instead, the scenes move at a jet-speed pace. The film could have benefitted from trimming about 20 minutes, and some action sequences like the ladies' fight, snake shots, and alligator fight could have used slow-motion treatment. Devi Sri Prasad's background score is intense, though some elements, like a song during the hero's elevation fight, feel unnecessary. Because of the editing and music choices, this movie ultimately becomes a one-time watch. The potential for a great movie was there, but it ended up as average. Certain scenes may come off as over-the-top.
Rating: 3/5 (Average, Good, One-time Watch)
My Take: Kanguva lacked a little bit of spice.
And hey Palavu, at least serve us some biryani in the sequel.