Bahubali Review

** This is a repost of my review for Bollyspice.com**

Lets get two things straight. Bahubali was never going to be a shrinking violet and S.S. Rajamouli is not the type to make a quickie film with a so-so storyline. So when you step into the theatre halls for Baahubali make sure you leave the hype at the door and open your mind to a new world on celluloid. A world where courage is your armour, vengeance is your sword, honour is the life you lay down and victory is a throne in the hearts of the people. Make no mistake this is a fantasy kingdom called Mahishmati. But look hard enough and you may just find the truth behind the fantasy.

In a forest far, far away and beneath the landscape, Empress Sivagami (Ramya Krishnan) stumbles her way to the base of a waterfall with a child in hand. A child she sacrifices her life for to keep alive. Raised by Sanga (Rohini), a doting childless woman and one of the villagers, Shiva (Prabhas) is no ordinary man. He climbs a mountain no mere mortal can conquer. Only the likes of Lord Shiva himself could take the reigns over this task. He is persistent, but falls short every time. Yet it is only when a wooden face mask literally falls to his feet, he finds the strength to overcome this obstacle. His task, solely to find out whom the girl behind the wooden mask is. Mission accomplished but this girl is no damsel. She is Avanthika (Tammannah Bhatia), a warrior in the rebel revolution set on the rescue of their queen – Devasena (Anushka Shetty). So while it’s not the normal successful attempt of courting, Shiva makes his mark on Avanthika (literally) only to embark on a new path with more challenging obstacles.

Unbeknownst to him, Devasena is not just a queen that is captive. She was the queen but now khaas mujrim of unknown crime in the kingdom of Mahishmati ruled by Bhallaladeva (Rana Daggubati). Tormented every day and every night, Bhalladeva rules his kingdom with the same never-yielding nature to torment. It runs on the loyalty of warrior-servants like Kattappa (Sathyaraj) and the fear of his complacent people. His strength lies in his brute force, his treachery and his disabled father Bijjaladeva (Nasser). When there is no hope, there is no reason to fight the inevitable. The people of Mahishmati have resolved to their grim fate ever since the death of their saviour, their king Bahubali (Prabhas again). However, not every day will be the same. Not every day does a queen breathe a sigh of relief after waiting 25 years for a son to come to her rescue. Not every day does a ferocious ruler erect a statue for himself, only to be overshadowed by the force of his people’s chant for their saviour.

You will have people compare the likes of Hercules, Prince of Persia, 300, Gladiator, Lord of The Rings and even Karan Arjun with the unwavering belief Devasena holds for the return of her son. But trust me when I say, there is very little originality in most films nowadays that circle Bollywood. As mentioned, look hard enough and you will find it. But the question in front of you isn’t just about how original the script is. It is how was the story told? How far did the makers go to ensure we the audience are entertained with a fresh viewpoint and convince us to play along? Did the cast depict the life of a character without the audience thinking it was so-and-so actor in the role of such-and-such character? On these counts there’s no doubt, minds will be blown.
 

So let’s start with the cast. You will be farfetched to find a cast so appealing. Ramya Krishnan is regal in her commanding leadership. She plays authority with finesse and fierceness that you’re almost inclined to follow her orders. Sathyaraj is the epitome of honour as Kattappa and is perfection on screen. Regardless of if it is on the battlefield or his devotion to a sword in memory of his leader. Anushka Shetty scares you with her intro but could possibly the 2nd best and most anticipated character for Part 2. She barely has enough screen time yet she wastes none of it to display the fighter bidding her time. Even as these characters display with maturity and stature their varying dynamics, it is Rana Daggubati and Prabhas that stand tall even if it is barely over their 6’ plus frames. The two actors are in full form playing against and with each other that is akin to brothers in arms. Rana is such a pleasure to see as he flares up with ferocity and with a sinister charm bound to kill a few hearts in the audience. As Shiva, Prabhas is playful and full of wonder yet as Baahubali, he shines with dignity and level-headedness that of a leader.

  

A mention must be made for Nasser and Tamannah. Both actors have proven their acting chops before, Nasser more so. However, the actors both don’t match up to their former performances. Nasser has played the conniving manthri in few films already so it was almost cake-walk. Tamannaah may have struck out in landing a power-packed role in Hindi films but the lovely lady has been in the South for about 10 years and has proven her mettle there. Bahubali does push her limits and she struggles to play the warrior in some places which is a shame. Having said this, neither of these characters would be considered bad. More they are the weaker links in an epic collaboration.

There is no distinct difference for the Hindi version of Bahubali. Simply put, Dharma Productions and AA Media present the film, Manoj Muntashir is on board for the lyrics/dialogue and M.M.Kreem’s changes his choice of singers for a soundtrack to suit. A soundtrack that resonates in the halls as epically as the films does. So what makes this dubbed version of a film different from the rest? Well the answer lies in another question. What makes us push boundaries? Success? Maybe. Prestige? Possibly… For a director like S.S. Rajamouli so dedicated to his craft, the answer lies in his passion for cinema. One that he shares with the massive crew that worked in the film. This is collaborative effort and they all shared the dream of this 2 part epic. As much as that sounds like something a clichéd thank you speech, Bahubali is testimony to that effort and it’s evident on screen. The VFX team itself was 2000 as declared by the director at the audio launch in Thirupathi. How can one yield a team so vast without missing out? Rajamouli is known for his take painstaking efforts to make sure he and his team get it right. Bahubali is no different. V.Vijayendra Prasad set the storyline, K.K. Senthilkumar behind the camera, Sabu Cyril for set design but it is Rajamouli at his creative best that grabs the audience of multiple languages to identify and sync with the final product. The suspense of each character poster, the teaser which shows 1000 men working on the construction of a set, the making videos of the cast as they were grilled physically for each character. This dedication is rare and the output is outstanding.

I read a tweet from a random viewer which said people are running out of superlatives to describe the grandeur that is Bahubali. I too am lost for words as the fan of fantasy screams and shouts for joy but has to wait patiently to see Bahubali: The Conclusion.

Rating: 4.5/5

Makkhi Review

*** This is a repost from the review at Bollyspice.com***

Good things come to those who wait is the saying. Director S.S.Rajamouli has surely made us live that phrase with his latest offering Makkhi. After announcing the film, the director decided to let our imagination run wild when he explained the story was simple. A guy gets reborn to avenge his death and save his girlfriend from the high profile bad guy. A common story that not only Hindi cinema but the entire Indian Film Industry would have tried to depict at least once. But the killer appeal for the audience this time is our guy is reborn as the common house fly. Now are the pieces falling into a tiny sequence in your mind? Intrigue peaked? Trust me when I say this writer went berserk looking out for clippings, promos and the ultimate trailer before this movie (finally!!) released as a bilingual, shot simultaneously in Tamil – Naan Ee and Telugu – Eega.

Now having seen the film in Telugu and in Tamil, what would Makkhi, the HINDI dubbed version provide a repeat viewer. The answer? Almost the exact same exhilarating ride as a first time viewer. The effort taken in by the whole team is really hard for anyone to explain in a justifiable manner. Makkhi must be seen to be believed and experienced in its full capacity. Be it the tender love story of an independent girl, Bindu played by debutant Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who slyly brushes all efforts by her love struck neighbor, Jani played by South actor Nani, although she too feels the same. Or the devilishly suave advances and sinister acts of Sudeep retaining his name for his character that makes you both hate and love him in equal quantity. Or the struggle this bad guy goes through thanks to the little hidden hero that makes his life hell. Love, laugh, smile, smirk, cry or even cringe all you want but know the team of Makkhi , from the actors in front to the VFX behind the magic on screen, are pulling the strings and will make you fall prey to their charm.

However a diagnosis is needed, isn’t it? And yes it does start of quite simple. Boy is in love with girl. She loves him too but won’t show. Enter bad guy who lusts after her. He finds out about him and kills boy. But this maybe just 20 minutes of the story and granted it may not seem much but what progress on screen will have you spellbound. As Rajamouli states, this is the ultimate revenge story so clearly that’s where the real fun lies. But if the story doesn’t take your fancy, the actors will surely keep you involved.

Hands down, Sudeep takes the lead in the actors. Not only with filmage but also quality of performance. As sinister as he is supposed to be, its the other shades of his character and the fact his opponent is a VFX product AFTER the scene was shot that stands out about him. Nani is only present in the first 20 minutes of the film but he adds to sweet romance in a calm, confident and cute manner. Leading Lady Samantha is someone you will see walking down the street and at the supermarket. No big whistles or horns. Just a simple girl with a special talent. The same, however, cannot be said for her appeal as it hits home harder than the girl next door character she plays. All else are competent.

When it comes to a film like this, the visual is half the work. M.M.Kreem brings out the visuals with each scene with his background score making it an electrifying experience while the songs are sure to reach your ears pleasantly with Lava Lava making an interesting mark. Editor Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao keeps the screenplay by S.S.Rajamouli in ship shape, while cinematographer Senthil Kumar makes sure each scene fits the bill, whether its the whirlwind in a glass or the reflective light of a torch. Art director S. Ravindar pulls out the rabbit from a hat on this one.

Was I impressed? Was it worth the wait? Did Rajamouli yet again? Clearly a big fat YES to all of the above. Now for the folk in B-Town, the figure that is S.S.Rajamouli is not entirely familiar beyond the news and gossip of his critically and commercially claimed film Magadheera that was at one staged rumored to be remade in Hindi. Maybe few more folks would have known about Son Of Sardaar being a remake of his Maryada Ramanna. But Makkhi is the film that will introduce him to the audience of Hindi cinema, even if it is a dubbed film, and bound to get the fan following that he enjoys in the south with Ajay Devgn and Kajol’s vocal cameo’s standing testament to it . Even the little niggling bits of length don’t stand a chance against his Midas touch.

Makkhi is a magnificent adventure lead by a minute hero.

Our rating: 4/5

Badrinath Review

The news of a new film from V.V.Vinayak regardless of who is in it, is enough to get hype started. After the successful Adhurs, Vinayak's Badrinath sees him join hands with Allu Arjun and M.M. Keeravani after Bunny and has Tamannaah in the female lead. Adding to this, the news of 22 sets being formed for the film,a first for TFI, and Arjun travelling to Vietnam for special martial arts training and the hype just kept building up. But with Geetha Arts and their rigorous publicity taking everyone by storm, is it a case of too much hype killing the film? Will Badrinath be able to withstand comparisons a host of other films and still make a successful mark? Yes and maybe. Read on to find out what its about.

The location is Uttarkhand. For centuries, the Hindu temples have had many devotees flock to see the deities and seek blessings. But devotees are not the only ones that come for "darshan" so as a safety from evil doers, each temple instates a protector and a keeper for all of temples as well. Bheeshma Narayan [Prakashraj] who runs a school that trains in martial arts for the protectors, is the keeper looking for a successor. To him, his star pupil is Badri [Allu Arjun], fearless and powerful, is the perfect choice. But complications arise in the form of Alakananda [Tammanaah], an atheist due to her past, she comes to the temple with her grandfather as he seeks hope against a danger threatening Alakananda's life. Initially annoyed, she soon develops a soft spot for Badri. But just as she is about to tell Badri of her feelings, she finds out Bheeshma's intention. Knowing she can’t withstand up against faith and devotion, Alakananda has just about given up when unknowingly, Badri shows her a way through prayer that he promises to help her with. But nothing comes easy and for her prayer to become a reality, she must return in time for the special pooja in 6 months time. Will Badri be able to save her from her danger and bring her back? Will he become the keeper like Bheeshma Narayan wants him to be? Confronted by his beloved guru, Badri's loyalty to the temple and his guru will be tested as he fights between his responsibility and his promise. 

Let me just say that the concept of a story with a temple back-drop is not something new so originality is not questioned this time. For “Stylish Star” Allu Arjun, Badrinath is a step back into the action genre that we saw him previously do in Desamuduru. And there is lots of it. Known to go to great pains for a role, Arjun’s effort is amazingly apparent in Badrinath, whether it’s his strong point dancing or the action sequence. Tamannaah is gradually stepping away from girly cuteness to full blown glamour but thankfully she has a bit of acting to do, although you will need to wait for the climax for it. Prakashraj needs no introduction and the actor cakewalks through his role as guru Bheeshma Narayan. Rao Ramesh is okay while Kelly Dorji, Ashwini Khalsekar and the actor who plays their son Nani are nowhere near as powerfully evil as you’d like them to be. Tanikella Bharani, Kovai Sarala and Pragathi are limited in their scenes and pitch in their two cents. Comedy kings Brahmanandam, M S Narayana, Krishna Bhagwan and Raghubabu try their best to bring out the giggles but most of it falls flat.

On the technical side, Ravi Varman’s cinematography depicts the Himalayan backdrop in exquisite form and is a sight for sore eyes. Anand Sai needs a special mention for elaborate sets with each one amazing in detail. M.M.Keeravani’s music is also in no need of introduction with the whole album being contagiously catchy but Vasudhara and Nath Nath are sure to remain on iTunes playlist for a while longer. Editing is okay but how one wishes the action, although well choreographed by Peter Hein, was cut back for crisper sequencing.

However, for all the hype and publicity, Badrinath is not without its shortfalls. And the main culprit is the writing by Chinni Prakash. For all the elaborate settings and amazing cinematography, the emotion in the film is lost on more than one occasion especially in the love angle of the film. Lack of depth in the characters makes the characters seem melodramatic or just plain loud. On the other side, Tamannaah and Allu Arjun look good yet there is little to no chemistry between them and barring the climax, there is not enough chance for it either. All it takes is for a loving/longing look from Tamannaah and a song begins. Yes the songs are entertaining but they are inappropriately placed and simply act like speedbreakers. As do the action sequences which are long and gory. But perhaps the biggest setback is the lack of logic. Yes, there have been many films that don’t give any importance to logic but for the effort put in, the dodging bullets with a sword and jumping mountains scenes stick out like a sore thumb. I wonder if V.V.Vinayak doesn’t like law enforcement since not a single one turns up when the mass violence occurs.

Yet can I say I didn’t enjoy the film at all? To be honest, no since I was singing Nath Nath as I walked out of the theatres and not thoroughly disgusted at the waste money. But my fan girl status to Allu Arjun was not enough to save me from disappointment. Especially when I’m not a fan of massive bloodfest and I’d like some respect to the laws of physics.

Rating: 2.5/5

Anaganaga O Dheerudu Review

***This is a republishing of my review from the Bollyspice website***

From the get go Anaganaga O Dheerudu or Once Upon A Warrior is bound to grab your attention for many reasons. One of the main reasons is that it’s Disney's first live action film in Telugu and add in that is jointly produced by the legendary K.Raghavendra Rao, it has a National Award winning director, Prakash Kovelamudi in his first full length feature, and a lead cast that consists of Siddharth, Shruti Haasan and Lakshmi Manchu and you have got a film that any film buff would want to check out. Then the soundtrack boasts of composers from the experienced to the upcoming including M.M.Keeravani [aka M.M.Kreem], Koti, Salim-Suleiman and Mickey J Meyer coming together on one fabulous OST. But with all this talent, the question remains do they succeed? Read on to find out.

Taking from the classic Good vs. Evil story-telling that is a Disney trademark, we begin with the story of Angarajyam, a tear drop shaped island that suffers under the cruel reign of Irendri [Lakshmi Manchu], an evil sorceress that possesses magic powers from a pact made with serpents [Sarpa Shakthi]. But no matter how powerful, even Achilles had a weakness and for Irendri, her powers rely on a mysterious figure that gives her a drop of blood every day. Even if she misses one day, she becomes very weak to the point of being powerless. The only way to rid herself of this dependency and to achieve her ultimate aim of immortality and power she must sacrifice a divine child by the name of Moksha [Harshitha]. With Moshka's blood, Irendri will transform from her spirit in the human shell state into the most powerful being across the land and will be virtually unstoppable. She sends her men to find the child, but Moksha is also being sought by the people of a small village called Agartha. With the ability to heal, they hope she can heal their children that suffer from mysterious diseases implanted by Irendri. They send forth a villager named Druki [Ramji] to bring her back for help. Moksha, along with her guardian, a blind warrior named Yodha [Siddharth] who lives with a painful past, and Druki, travel from the Kazi monastery in Pushpagiri to Agartha. Of course, as it is in all good vs. evil stories they don't know of the danger that lies ahead. Do they make it in time to save the children? Who is the mysterious figure Irendri relies on? Does Irendri succeed in her plan? And what happened in Yodha's past that still haunts him? The answers to these questions form the crux of the story.

Now to the performances: Siddharth is an absolute delight to watch. The way he plays Yodha makes him both lovable and dignified. As a common villager with an extraordinary talent and an enormous responsibility, he adds a human touch with the mischievous streak yet maintains the sharp wit of a warrior. Incidentally, the actor has not done an action-based role like this before, but has shown he is quite capable without the OTT six-pack bare chested poses. Shruti Haasan may be playing the typical "damsel in distress", but she is far from the ditsy "save me" type. Almost picture perfect for the role, she maintains a feisty nature, yet oozes sensuality and charm that is bound to appeal to all. Yet these two are almost gobbled up by the talented Lakshmi Manchu. Daughter of legendary actor Mohan Babu, she takes the role and transforms into a larger than life figure that will make some question if this is really her debut. A complete natural as Irendri, her voice modulation alone is bound to chill you to the bone especially as Sarpini, the serpent spirit residing in Irendri's tresses. Young Harshitha is an integral part of the story and shows confidence beyond her age. Ravibabu, Subbraya Sharma and Ramji do justice to their roles while Brahmandam and Ali tickle the funny if only for a few scenes.

Fairy tales are a hard style to pull off on celluloid and in less capable hands; a film like this can fall flat miserably. However, Prakash Kovelamudi not only infuses the right amount of human emotion and values with fantasy but also, shows it in a way that's unique and universally understandable. There will not be a moment that you will feel you have seen this somewhere else. Hats off to Prakash's imagination. The presentation i.e. the cinematography [Sounder Rajan], production design [Raj Golay] and art [Bhupesh R Bhupathi] is amazing. The visual effects team at Firefly deserve a very special mention for their work, both obvious and hidden. The detail is evident and remarkable. All four music directors leave their trademark stamp on the soundtrack as Salim-Sulaiman do what they do best with the background score, charm and enchant.

With so many pluses, what about the minuses? To be honest yes, they are there. As mentioned Harshitha is a central character so while she has done her bit and there is an explanation for her existence, a bit more depth to the character would have helped to fill out her role. Also, the dialogues of the film are meant to be folklore styled but at times, the emotion could have been expressed much stronger for a deeper connection. With such a shrewd director at the helm, editor Shravana Kartikaneni's job is made easy, but one does feel a jerk in the screenplay every now and then.

So does Disney and K.Raghavendra Rao's magnum opus Anaganaga O Dheerudu work? Yes, definitely. As a whole package the film is sure to delight its audience with great visual, amazing performances and a simple yet appealing story. Who is this film directed at? Well, the answer to that lies in the age old phrase, you are only as old as you feel. The movie enchants, bewitches and mesmerizes just like a Disney classic would and theirs is an audience that has passed several generations and continues to do so. For me it gets 4/5 stars!