‘Pushpa 2: The Rule’ is a definite improvement over the first one but needed a tighter edit particularly the elongated action sequences which don’t serve much purpose other than establishing Pushpa’s invincibility.
Pushpa 2: The Rule (Telugu), 05-12-2024, Action, Thriller, 3 hours 20 minutes, U/A, Theatre
- Main Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil, and Sunil
- Director: Sukumar
- Producer: Naveen and Ravi Shankar
- Music Director: Devi Sri Prasad
- Cinematography: Miroslaw Brozek
- Rating: 3/5
It goes without saying that Pushpa 2: The Rule is one of the most anticipated commercial films of 2024, after the first part Pushpa: The Rise became a huge success across India.
Allu Arjun’s swag and mannerisms, coupled with the rustic, atmosphere found many admirers despite the problematic aspects. With Allu Arjun winning the National Award, expectations have increased multifold.
Synopsis
Pushpa 2: The Rule is a definite improvement over its predecessor. The relationship between Allu Arjun’s Pushpa and Rashmika Mandanna’s Srivalli is far better etched in this one. The chemistry is very much spot on giving the movie some of its best moments. At the same time, there are deficiencies too which I will elaborate on later.
Pushpa 2: The Rule takes off from the first one’s dramatic finale involving Allu Arjun and Fahadh Faasil. From a daily wage worker, Allu Arjun’s Pushpa has now become a very influential person in the smuggling syndicate.
In the second part, the viewers see two shades of Pushpa: one as a doting husband, and two as a kingpin who has maintained his status amidst the return of Fahadh Faasil’s Bhanwar Singh Shekwat and some other old enemies. The second part primarily focuses on the rivalry and how Pushpa maintains his hold while being a perfect husband.
What works and what doesn’t
A strong aspect of Pushpa 2: The Rule is undoubtedly the husband and wife scenes. There is playfulness to their interactions making the scenes adorable. Apart from the light moments, there are also some well-written and enacted emotional ones.
A particular mention must be made of a hugely poignant moment after Allu Arjun’s intense dance in the Jathara episode.
Rashmika’s Srivalli is a strong emotional anchor for Pushpa, and this has come out well in numerous scenes like the lengthy monologue. The actor does a wonderful job of showcasing Srivalli’s different shades.
The rivalry between Allu Arjun and Fahadh Faasil is also entertaining to watch. A major reason for that is the crackling dialogues whether it is the intense portions or scenes underlined with humour. Fahadh in the first part got a raw deal but in this one, the actor gives a memorable act.
He perfectly portrays both the eccentric nature and also the simmering anger. Fahadh Fassil makes for a very worthy antagonist.
Another strong aspect of Pushpa 2: The Rule is the portions tying up Pushpa’s baggage of being an illegitimate child. Director Sukumar has given a touching closure to this angle.
An emotional breakdown featuring Ajay as the elder brother is wonderfully written and enacted.
Coming to the flaws, a major problem with Pushpa 2: The Rule is the portrayal of Allu Arjun as an invincible man someone who can defeat anyone and can never lose.
The action sequences by nature are very much over the top and this does become a hindrance more so for those who don’t enjoy larger-than-life heroes. Also, the movie’ wafer-thin storyline doesn’t warrant the huge running time. Editing needed to be much tighter, especially in the second half.
Performances
Coming to the main man Allu Arjun successfully takes off without any hiccups. It is clear that Allu Arjun has made Pushpa his own; his outstanding act is easily the strongest pillar of the movie. He not only sells the superhero nature of the role, but also shines equally in the emotionally charged moments.
Talking about his dance in the Jathara sequence, spellbinding would be an understatement. He brings so much depth with those eyes and overall body language. With this film, Allu Arjun once again shows why he is not just a star but also a powerhouse performer who deserves the national award bestowed on him.
Technical aspects
The cinematography of Miroslaw Kuba Brozek is of the highest order. The intensity of the action sequences along with the thrilling night scenes in the forest has been wonderfully captured by him.
Devi Sri Prasad’s music doesn’t completely match up to the first part, but the songs have their moments. Tracks like “Sooseki” and “Peelings” make for a good watch.
Final take
All said and done Pushpa 2: The Rule is a treat for die-hard Allu Arjun fans and action lovers.
(Views expressed here are personal, edited by Sumavarsha)
https://thesouthfirst.com/entertainment/telugu/pushpa-2-the-rule-movie-review/
