As Promised, Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 Delivers Wildfire And More: Reviews Out

Directed by Sukumar, the much-anticipated sequel Pushpa 2: The Rule hit theatres, and throngs of fans lined up for the early show. Perhaps one of the biggest films in Indian cinema this year, Pushpa 2 is off to a great start as far as commercial acclaim is considered.

Recording a duration of 3 hours 20 minutes, the film is packed with punches (literally and figuratively) and power-packed performances by its cast, featuring Allu Arjun as Pushparaj, Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli, and Fahadh Faasil as the antagonist Banwar Singh Shekhawat.

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Across reviews, the sequel manages to create a grand spectacle like its predecessor. The all-out action entertainer, which is super satisfying to watch, does get a tad bit boring and tiring at certain sections thanks to its lengthy runtime.

When it comes to performances, Allu Arjun is evocative in showing the massy persona but also the emotional and the softer sides of Pushpa Raj. “The actor has committed his life to this character for five years now, and he seems so comfortable in the character’s skin this time… Arjun deftly softens Pushpa’s edges, making it easier to root for him. It also helps that Sukumar writes him some brilliant scenes; you get the wildfire you’re promised,” observed Hindustan Times.

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Malayalam actor Fahadh Faasil shines by embodying “both levity and blustery bravado,” as observed by NDTV. Meanwhile, Rashmika’s character was observed to be an “extension of Geethanjali from Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal”; however, HT did commend the actress for pulling off a monologue well.

NDTV writes, “That Pushpa Part 2 has no technical blemishes is par for the course, but its plot is disappointingly uneven.” Cinematographer Miroslaw Kuba Brozek brings his best once again with reviews praising him for his exceptional skills and creating colourful frames, especially the jatara scene.

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Overall, while the film has its flaws with supporting characters often sidelined and poorly used, the mass appeal takes over the film. According to general consensus, the film shines the most when it focuses on the sandalwood mafia chief’s childhood story and his quest to make a name for himself.

Although the writing falters in certain areas, the sequel (spoiler alert!) paves the way for a final part to wrap up the Pushpa trilogy—Pushpa 3: The Rampage. And as HT puts it, “When you don’t notice a runtime as long as this one, that’s a win.”