Bharateeyudu 2 - Zero Connection

Movie: Bharateeyudu 2
Rating: 2.25/5

Cast:  Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, SJ Suryah, Bobby Simha, Vivek, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Gulshan Grover and others. 

Director: Shankar
Produced By: Subhaskaran Allirajah, Udhayanidhi Stalin

Release Date: July 12, 2024

Story:

Chitra Aravindan (Siddharth) and his friends fight corruption by posting videos on social media. The corruption goes beyond tolerance, and they start a social media campaign to get the famed Bharateeyudu alias Senapathy (Kamal Haasan) back. Senapathy, who was in exile, returns with a plan. What exactly does Senapathy do? What happens when he gets back? Bharateeyudu 2 answers these questions.  

Performances:

In a commendable effort, Kamal Haasan resurrects his iconic Senapathy character, delivering a stellar performance. The talented actor manages to uplift some lackluster scenes with his presence. However, like a shadow, the weak writing looms over the movie, proving to be a hindrance that even Senapathy's brilliance couldn't fully overcome, leaving a tinge of disappointment.

Siddharth was given a substantial supporting role, but his portrayal felt forced throughout. Priya Bhavani Shankar and the rest of the cast delivered decent performances. Samuthirakani and Bobby Simha excelled in their respective characters. Sj Suryah briefly appeared, hinting at a potential more prominent role in the third installment. Rakul Preet Singh's role seemed more like a cameo. Bobby Simha had little room to showcase his talent as the CBI Officer, but he managed well within the limited scope. Priya Bhavani Shankar, Samuthirakani, and the rest of the cast were satisfactory.

What worked for the film:

The 1996 blockbuster Bharateeyudu is revived by the same combo, Shankar and Kamal Haasan, but with a sequel called Bharateeyudu 2.  Shankar tried to bring a unique concept to this film: people calling out the corruption/wrong deeds of their own family members. The idea is definitely exciting, and the adverse effects or dangerous situations that honest people go through were very effectively shown in a crucial episode in the second half. The initial moments in the first half around the entry of Senapathy were also engaging.

What did not work for the film:

Bharateeyudu 2 revolves around the return of 'Senapathy' to India, as the nation requires his presence to combat the widespread corruption. The initial portion includes engaging elements such as Senapathy's introduction and various subplots during the setup. However, the director seemed preoccupied with Marma Kala and the diverse forms of retribution rather than focusing on the core issue and the ensuing battle. The Killings look downright silly as the different forms of Marma Kala appear very comic and do not let the seriousness show any impact. As the narrative progresses, the audience's momentum and interest gradually wane, even with Senapathy's eventual return.  

Bharateeyudu 2 Review and Verdict:

Bharateeyudu 2 attempts to deliver a powerful message, but Shankar's execution falls short. While specific early sequences and poignant moments later excel, excessive dragging parts and uninspired drama hamper the overall narrative. The trailer of Indian3 at the movie's conclusion came out well.