Pushpa 2 – The Rule meets all the expectations. It starts with a bang and doesn’t dip even for a second. This time, there are lengthy dramatic scenes that add to the impact. Sukumar’s direction is splendid and he gives it a more Pan-India treatment, compared to the first part, which looked like a Telugu film. This one doesn’t and the scale is humongous. The humour also works big time and Pushpa and Srivalli’s chemistry is damn good. As for the action, it is going to take your breath away. The action directors and cinematographer have gone to another level, setting new benchmarks. Sadly, the film has some minuses. Although it’s not boring at all, one does feel that it’s too lengthy (its run time is 200 minutes). The songs are not as good as the first part. At a crucial juncture, one might get confused when the flashback starts or whether it was even a flashback. In another scene, 90s style titillation style is used for female harassment scene and it looks very outdated. Thankfully, these are minor complaints. Allu Arjun is outstanding, to say the least. The way he connects with the masses with his swag and action is legendary. He’s no doubt one of the biggest stars but he’s also one of the finest actors today. Rashmika Mandanna also proves that she’s a superb performer. Her character has much more to offer in the sequel. Fahadh Faasil too has a longer screen time and as always, is terrific. Saurabh Sachdeva (Hamid) is lovely in a cameo. Sunil (Srinu) and Anasuya Bharadwaj (Daksha) are over the top but it works well for their characters. Ajay (Mohan), Kalpalatha (Pushpa’s mother Parvati) and Pavani Karanam (Pushpa’s niece Kaveri) lend able support. Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari (Keshav) and Rao Ramesh (Siddappa) leave a huge mark. All in all, Pushpa 2 – The Rule is indeed WILD FIRE and shouldn’t be missed! (P.S. DO REACH CINEMAS ON TIME; YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS THE OPENING SCENE)
My rating – **** out of 5!