Movie Name: Indian 2
Cast: Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Priya Bhavani Shankar
Director: Shankar
Genre: Action Drama
Available on: Netflix
Kamal Haasan returns to his iconic role as the aged vigilante Senapathy in this highly anticipated sequel. The film opens with a scathing portrayal of the rampant corruption and bribery plaguing India, with brutal depictions of victims’ deaths intensifying the emotional impact. Directed by Shankar, the movie is marked by his signature style, featuring grandiose song sequences and impressive visual effects.
The inclusion of Siddharth, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Jagan, and Rishikanth’s social media channel, Barking Dogs, brings a contemporary flair to the film. Their portrayal of everyday struggles, clearly inspired by R. K. Laxman’s “The Common Man,” adds a relatable and poignant touch, tempering the harsh realities with a dose of social commentary.
The strength of the movie lies in its compelling narrative and a surprising twist in the second half. At first glance, it appears to be yet another tale of a hero seeking to rid the country of its flaws, delivering justice to corrupt politicians and officials, often through ruthless means. However, the film cleverly explores the irony that people often reject the truth when it hits too close to home. This theme is powerfully illustrated when the very individuals who called for Senapathy’s return are the ones demanding his departure by the end.
Despite some shortcomings, particularly the unrealistic makeup that seems to struggle under the scrutiny of 8K screens, Kamal Haasan’s performance remains dominant and compelling in every scene. Whether the fault lies in the makeup team’s execution or the high-definition display, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall experience.
In conclusion, this film is a worthwhile watch, with the ending hinting at a third instalment that promises to delve into the flashback of Senapathy and his father. Fans can look forward to yet another captivating offering from the Shankar-Kamal Haasan collaboration.