Pushpa 2 review: Allu Arjun delivers the performance of a lifetime in an engaging action drama

Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2, one of the biggest films of the year, finally hit the screens today (December 5) amid much fanfare. The actioner created a great deal of buzz among fans ahead of its release with its massy posters and intense trailer. Moreover, the fact that it is a sequel to the 2021 blockbuster Pushpa made the wait for it harder.? So, did the film live up to the hype and prove to be a paisa vasool affair for the audience? Let’s find out

Pushpa 2 centres on the events that transpire when the titular smuggler (Allu Arjun) locks horns with IPS Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), his old foe, once again while trying to expand his ‘empire’. The basic storyline, much like the one seen in the first part, follows the tried and tested ‘one man vs the system’ formula and this leaves very little scope for improvisation. As a result, the film feels a bit predictable at certain points. The intelligently-written screenplay, however, makes up for this minor shortcoming and transforms the film into a must-watch affair.?

Pushpa 2 begins with a larger-than-life action sequence that re-introduces us to the protagonist and sets the stage for what is to follow. Moreover, it does complete justice to Bunny’s reel image. This is followed by an equally impressive action block that builds an aura around Shekhawat and tries to establish him as a worthy opponent for Pushpa. Sukumar then relies on Allu Arjun’s charisma to take the story forward, which essentially transforms the film into a full-fledged star vehicle. The gamble pays off as the Julayi actor breathes new life into each sequence with his swag. The police station scene is a prime example of this. He is also in prime form in a scene where he challenges Shekhawat after initially apologising to him.?

Despite treating Puspa 2 as a mass movie, Sukumar makes it a point to ‘humanise’ the protagonist by highlighting his softer side. Filmmakers usually rely on the mother sentiment to fulfill this goal. Salaar, starring Prabhas, is a case in point. However, Sukumar takes a different route and brings out Pushpa’s tender side through his scenes with Srivalli (Rashmika Mandanna), his wife.?

The ‘Jathatra’ sequence too is a major highlight of Pushpa 2. It gives Allu Arjun ample scope to showcase his range as a performer. He excels in the dance sequence and is at his vulnerable best in the portions where he has a touching conversation with his wife.?

That said, Pushpa 2 falters a bit in the second half as the track involving Jagapathi Babu– who plays a feared political bigwig– feels incomplete. Moreover, the sign language sequence doesn’t really fit the film’s world even though it results in a shocking twist. Similarly, the climax feels a bit rushed. It, however, sets the stage for Pushpa 3.?

Coming to the performances, Allu Arjun is at his best in the most challenging film of his career. His body language and swag make the film feel relatable. He also elevates the action scenes with his striking screen presence. Fahadh Faasil shines in a few scenes and holds his own against the ‘Stylish Star’. One, however, gets the feeling that he is underutilised and his track ends abruptly. Rashmika shines in the romantic scenes with Allu Arjun. Moreover, she is the centre of attention in sequence when she defends her ‘saami’ when he is verbally abused.? She also dances her heart out in the Peelings songs.?

The likes of Sunil, Rao Ramesh,? Anasuya Bharadwaj, and Sritej don’t really get much scope to shine. Sreelela makes her presence felt in the Kissik song.??Devi Sri Prasad’s tunes are good and blend with the narrative. However, his work here pales in comparison to what he did in Pushpa.?

The film is over three hours long but doesn’t drag much, which indicates that editing is pretty good,??To sum up, Pushpa 2 is a well-packed and brilliantly executed action drama that offers a wholesome experience and helps brand Allu Arjun become stronger.?

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