Sukumar has always been celebrated for his intricate storytelling and gripping narratives, but Pushpa 2: The Rule marks a surprising deviation from his usual craft. While the film boasts a larger canvas, intense performances, and well-choreographed action sequences, it struggles with the one element that defines cinema at its core—a compelling story.
A Character Without a Cause
Pushpa Raj, portrayed by Allu Arjun, is a character who captivated audiences in Pushpa: The Rise with his relentless ambition and raw intensity. However, in Pushpa 2, the narrative fails to do justice to this beloved character. Sukumar’s writing, which typically thrives on unpredictability and nuance, feels surprisingly underwhelming here. The story unfolds predictably, with moments that seem more like compromises than deliberate choices.
Instead of diving deeper into Pushpa’s psyche or exploring fresh conflicts, the film relies on a series of loosely connected, visually spectacular moments. While these scenes may entertain on the surface, they lack the emotional weight and narrative cohesion needed to make them resonate.
Why, Fahadh?
Fahadh Faasil, known for his impeccable script selection and layered performances, seems out of place in Pushpa 2. His character, Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, brims with potential, especially from the Pushpa: The Rise, but the screenplay doesn’t allow him to shine. It’s puzzling to see an actor of his caliber in a role that feels underwritten and underwhelming. His inclusion feels more like a missed opportunity than a strategic choice.
Outdated Tropes and Political Moves Surrounding Female Characters
Srivalli’s character in Pushpa 2: The Rule feels more like a political move aimed at broadening the film’s appeal rather than serving as a natural progression of the story. Her role, along with the outdated tropes involving women—the doting wife with no agency, or the underutilized no depth niece—leans heavily on clichés that belong to an era long gone. These were in natural flow in the first part. These elements are used as emotional crutches, but instead of enhancing the narrative, they contribute to a predictable and uninspired journey. The lack of nuance in portraying the female characters makes their arcs feel superficial and forced, dragging the film into a monotonous cycle of outdated melodrama.
Spectacle Over Substance
The film undoubtedly delivers on the technical front. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed, and the cinematography captures the rugged charm of Pushpa’s world. However, these visual treats cannot mask the absence of a solid narrative foundation. Without a story to anchor the spectacle, the grandeur feels hollow.
Sukumar’s Struggle
It’s evident that Sukumar holds immense affection for the character of Pushpa. But perhaps that love needed more time to mature into a story worthy of the character’s legacy. Rushing to create something grand without the narrative to support it has led to a film that feels like a shadow of what it could have been.
Pushpa 2 — Final Thoughts
Pushpa 2: The Rule is a classic case of style over substance. While it has moments that showcase Allu Arjun’s charisma and Sukumar’s flair for crafting visually arresting sequences, it lacks the storytelling finesse that made the first installment memorable. Sometimes, it’s better to wait for inspiration to strike than to deliver something that doesn’t live up to the promise of greatness.
