(21)Movie Review: Pushpa: The Rise [CBFC: U/A 2021 ‧ Action/Thriller ‧ 2h 59m]

Cast & Crew

Directed by Sukumar, Pushpa: The Rise stars Allu Arjun as the titular character alongside Rashmika Mandanna and Fahadh Faasil. The film's music is composed by Devi Sri Prasad, and cinematography is handled by Mirosław Kuba Brożek. With a stellar supporting cast, including Sunil, Anasuya Bharadwaj, and Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari, the movie sets a strong foundation for its narrative.

Introduction

Pushpa: The Rise is the first installment of a two-part epic that delves into the smuggling world of red sandalwood in the Seshachalam forests of Andhra Pradesh. It follows Pushpa Raj's rise from a lowly worker to a dominant force, battling societal hierarchies and personal betrayals.

Storyline/Plot

The story revolves around Pushpa Raj, a laborer with big ambitions. Born into a society that disrespects his illegitimacy, Pushpa works in the red sandalwood smuggling business, gradually rising through the ranks. His journey is marked by intense rivalries, love, and betrayal. The narrative's emotional core lies in Pushpa's battle against societal norms, a blossoming love story with Srivalli (Rashmika Mandanna), and an intense face-off with Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), a corrupt police officer introduced late in the movie. The film ends on a cliffhanger, teasing the audience for the sequel.

Cast Performances

Allu Arjun delivers one of his career-best performances, perfectly embodying Pushpa's rugged, rebellious nature. His transformation, body language, and mannerisms bring authenticity to the character.

Rashmika Mandanna as Srivalli charms with her screen presence, though her role is underutilized.

Fahadh Faasil impresses in a brief yet impactful role, setting up an intriguing antagonist for the sequel.

Supporting actors like Sunil and Anasuya Bharadwaj bring depth to their negative roles, making them stand out.

Cinematography

Mirosław Kuba Brożek's cinematography captures the dense, raw beauty of the Seshachalam forests. The visuals, particularly during action sequences and nighttime smuggling operations, are striking. The earthy tones and dynamic camera work align perfectly with the gritty narrative.

Photography

The still frames of the movie, especially those showcasing Pushpa’s iconic poses, have become synonymous with the film’s identity. The use of lighting to highlight the protagonist’s emotions and his transition from a worker to a leader is noteworthy.

Choreography

The choreography, especially in songs like “Saami Saami” and “Oo Antava Oo Oo Antava,” is captivating. Allu Arjun’s dance moves in “Srivalli” were particularly praised for their unique yet simple footwork, making it a viral sensation.

Musical Score

Devi Sri Prasad (DSP) delivers an electrifying soundtrack that complements the film's high-energy narrative. The songs resonate with the masses, with tracks like “Daakko Daakko Meka” embodying Pushpa’s feral, survivalist spirit.

Background Theme

The background score amplifies the tension and drama of pivotal scenes. The thumping beats during action sequences and the subdued tones during emotional moments create a balanced auditory experience.

VFX & Special Effects

The VFX is decent, particularly in depicting the smuggling operations and forest terrains. However, certain sequences could have benefited from more polished effects, as some action scenes appeared slightly over-the-top.

Final Verdict/Conclusion

Pushpa: The Rise is a gripping action-drama that excels in its storytelling, performances, and technical aspects. While the pacing could have been tighter in parts, the movie effectively sets the stage for its sequel. With its raw intensity and mass appeal, it’s a cinematic experience that caters to both the masses and critics alike.

PROS

• Outstanding performance by Allu Arjun.

• Strong character development and gripping storyline.

• Electrifying music and choreography.

• Authentic depiction of rural landscapes and the smuggling world.

CONS

• Uneven pacing in certain sections.

• Rashmika Mandanna’s character could have been better developed.

• VFX in some sequences feels exaggerated.

Expectations/Recommendations

Fans of intense action dramas and mass entertainers should expect Pushpa: The Rise to deliver a gritty, raw cinematic experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy stories of an underdog’s rise against societal odds, paired with captivating performances and high-energy music. For the best experience, watch it on a big screen or with a quality sound system to appreciate the scale and music.

Recommendation:

This movie is a must-watch for fans of Allu Arjun and anyone who enjoys high-stakes, emotionally charged narratives. While it primarily caters to audiences who love South Indian cinema, it has universal appeal due to its strong performances and engaging storyline.

Message to Learn

The movie highlights:

Resilience and Determination: Pushpa Raj’s journey emphasizes the importance of self-belief and determination in the face of adversity.

Challenging Societal Norms: It sheds light on class disparities and stigmas around illegitimacy, urging audiences to challenge outdated societal norms.

Power Dynamics: It explores how power corrupts and the lengths one must go to achieve and protect what they’ve built.

Next Installment

The cliffhanger ending of Pushpa: The Rise strongly teases the sequel, Pushpa: The Rule. The second part is expected to delve deeper into Pushpa's confrontation with Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat and his rise to absolute dominance. It will likely resolve unanswered questions, intensify the conflict, and explore Pushpa’s personal and professional battles.

Fan Expectations for the Sequel:

• A stronger antagonist in Fahadh Faasil's character.

• More insights into Pushpa's backstory.

• Enhanced action sequences and a satisfying conclusion to the saga.

• Anticipation is high, and the sequel promises to be bigger and better, elevating the stakes for Pushpa's journey.

Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video

SCREEN SPEAK: ★★★★★★★★☆☆(8/10)

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