Pushpa 2, action without challenge

Following up a super-hit like Pushpa (2021) with a sequel was no easy task, and Pushpa 2 just about manages it. At 200 minutes, the film feels overly long, with its extended runtime dragging down the momentum. Mangoidiots rates it Raw, and it’s set to stream on Netflix. The first half keeps you hooked with a nice subplot around taking a “photo.” Its resolution feels like a natural conclusion, and had the film ended there, we’d have left cheering for Pushpa. Unfortunately, the additional hour feels like a lazy setup for part three, diluting the overall experience.

The first half brims with high-energy action and an entertaining romance between Allu Arjun and Rashmika Mandanna. The opening fight sequence reignites excitement, and Allu Arjun delivers phenomenal action throughout, particularly in the climactic fight where he battles with his mouth while bound hand and foot—a visually stunning yet unbelievable moment that superhero fans will relish. Fahadh Faasil, a standout in the first film, is subdued here, which weakens the tension. With no real challenge for Pushpa, the narrative becomes predictable.

Beyond the leads, Rao Ramesh as MP Siddappa and Jagadeesh Prathap Bandari as Kesava shines in memorable roles. Sreeleela features in the provocative song “Kissik”, which attempts to convey through fine lyrics an important message about consent and boundaries but undermines it with its presentation.

Director Sukumar focuses entirely on entertaining the masses with action-packed sequences, leaving little effort for a tight plot or screenplay. While this approach works initially, it fizzles out by the time the runtime stretches to 200 minutes.