PUSHPA 2 – REVIEW

PUSHPA 2 – THE RULE is an action drama filmdirected by Sukumar and produced by Mythri Movie Makers, in association with Sukumar Writings. It is the second instalment in the Pushpa film series and the sequel to the 2021 film Pushpa: The Rise. Made on a budget of ₹400–500 crore, the film is one of the most expensive Indian films. With a runtime of 200 minutes, it is one of the longest Indian films ever made.

When Pushpa: The Rise unexpectedly bulldozed its way into pan-India stardom in 2021, it wasn’t just a movie; it was an event. A film that crossed linguistic and cultural borders with the ease of a smuggler crossing checkpoints. Ironically, the secret to its success lay in its simplicity—no grand schemes of pan-India ambitions, just raw storytelling paired with mass appeal. Naturally, the sequel bore the weight of colossal expectations, and the makers clearly decided that bigger was better. Pushpa 2: The Rule is not just a sequel—it’s an elaborate spectacle designed to smash the ₹1000 crore ceiling. But does it succeed? Not entirely.
The film begins with a crackerjack introduction for Pushpa, reminding us why he’s the quintessential mass hero. However, this adrenaline rush is short-lived as the momentum stumbles into a chaotic action sequence that fails to impress. For much of the first half, the narrative struggles to find its footing. Set against the familiar backdrop of red sandalwood smuggling, the plot unfolds at a lethargic pace, offering little in terms of newness or excitement. The second half attempts to pick up the pieces, shifting its focus to commercial mass elements—high-octane action, emotional family moments, and the inevitable clash of egos. Here, the film manages to rise slightly above the ordinary. The emotional sequences, in particular, hit the right notes, grounding the film in moments of genuine connection. However, these highs are sporadic and fail to sustain momentum.
One of the most anticipated aspects of the sequel was the showdown between Allu Arjun’s Pushpa and Fahadh Faasil’s Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat. While the dynamic between the two characters is interesting, their face-off feels disappointingly undercooked, more of a simmer than a boil. Adding to the woes is the runtime. At over three hours, the film can feel a tad stretched, but definitely not for the fans. The last hour along with the climax manages to make the audience feel satisfied.
Allu Arjun is the heart and soul of the film, delivering a powerhouse performance that oscillates between unrelenting ferocity and poignant vulnerability. His portrayal of Goddess Kali in one sequence is mesmerizing, a visual and emotional tour de force. Fahadh Faasil, the human chameleon, is effortlessly brilliant, bringing nuance and intensity to a role that could have easily been overshadowed by the hero’s larger-than-life presence. Rashmika Mandanna, while charming in parts, especially when normal and not eccentric.

On the technical front, the film is a visual marvel. Miroslaw Kuba Brozek’s cinematography is a standout, capturing the huge landscapes, grandiose festivities and the chaotic underbelly of the smuggling world with equal finesse. Every frame is rich with detail, from the striking reds of the sandalwood forests to the muted tones of the emotional sequences. Devi Sri Prasad’s background score elevates key moments, although the songs, while decent, lack the staying power of the prequel’s chartbusters. Editing by Naveen Nooli is efficient despite the length of the film. Dialogue writing deserves a mention for its sharpness, even if the screenplay falters. Sukumar, the captain of this massive ship, showcases his directorial flair but struggles to overwhelm expectations.

PUSHPA 2 doesn’t push the bar, but is huge and colourful, staying within the boundaries.

PUSHPA 2 – PUDGY !!

2.5/5

B.U.Shreesha