Indian 2 Review: Kamal Haasan’s Vigilante Returns, But Is the Wait Worth It?

15 years after vigilante Senapathy took audiences by storm in the blockbuster Indian, director Shankar and superstar Kamal Haasan reunite for the much-hyped sequel, Indian 2. The stakes are high, the expectations even higher. Does this long-gestating film live up to its legendary predecessor, or does it buckle under the weight of nostalgia?

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The Return of Senapathy

Indian 2 picks up years after the events of the first film, with an aged Senapathy (Kamal Haasan) living in exile. As corruption and injustice continue to plague the nation, he’s compelled to don the vigilante mantle once more. Haasan slips back into the iconic role with ease, his performance a masterclass in restrained intensity.

However, the script doesn’t quite match up to his calibre. The plot feels disjointed at times, with multiple subplots competing for attention. The pacing, especially in the first half, could have been tighter. Despite these flaws, Haasan’s charisma and the film’s central theme of fighting corruption keep you invested.

Old vs New: The Generational Clash

One of the movie’s more intriguing aspects is the dynamic between Senapathy and his son, a young IAS officer played by Siddharth. Their ideological clash forms the emotional core of the film. Siddharth delivers a sincere performance, holding his own against the veteran Haasan.

The supporting cast, including Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, and Priya Bhavani Shankar, have limited scope but make their presence felt. Nedumudi Venu and Delhi Ganesh reprise their roles from the first film, adding a touch of nostalgia.

Shankar’s Signature Spectacle

Director Shankar is known for his grand vision, and Indian 2 is no exception. The film is a visual spectacle, with lavish sets, slick action sequences, and top-notch VFX. The vigilante set-pieces are particularly well-executed, showcasing Shankar’s flair for the dramatic.

However, at times, the grandeur seems to come at the cost of subtlety. Some of the film’s messaging about corruption and social justice feels heavy-handed, lacking the nuance of the original.

Music and Technicalities

Anirudh Ravichander’s music is a highlight, with the “Ottagathai Kattikko” track already a chartbuster. The background score effectively heightens the drama, though it can get a bit overbearing in places.

Cinematographer Rathnavelu’s visuals are stunning, capturing the scale and spectacle of Shankar’s vision. The editing, however, could have been sharper, especially in the first half.

So, is Indian 2 a worthy sequel? The answer is a qualified yes. While it doesn’t quite capture the raw intensity and social commentary of the original, it still manages to be an engaging, message-driven vigilante thriller. Kamal Haasan’s towering presence and Shankar’s signature style make it a must-watch for fans of the franchise.

For those new to the Indian saga, the film might feel a bit overwrought and heavy-handed at times. But if you’re willing to embrace the spectacle and the somewhat simplistic messaging, Indian 2 is a solid entertainer.

In the era of streaming, watching a grand spectacle like Indian 2 on the big screen is highly recommended. But if you prefer to catch it from the comfort of your home, a high-speed broadband connection like Airtel Xstream Fiber can ensure a seamless, buffer-free viewing experience.

Indian 2 may not be perfect, but it’s a reminder of the enduring appeal of the vigilante genre and the star power of Kamal Haasan. It’s a worthy addition to Shankar’s brand of grand, message-driven cinema, and a must-watch for fans of the original.

FAQs

1. Is Indian 2 a direct sequel to Indian? Yes, Indian 2 is a direct sequel to the 1996 blockbuster Indian, featuring Kamal Haasan reprising his role as vigilante Senapathy.

2. Who are the main cast members of Indian 2? Indian 2 stars Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Nedumudi Venu, and Delhi Ganesh in key roles.

3. Is Indian 2 a standalone film, or do I need to watch Indian first? While Indian 2 can be enjoyed as a standalone film, watching Indian First will provide context and enhance the viewing experience.

4. What is the central theme of Indian 2? Like its predecessor, Indian 2 tackles the theme of corruption and features a vigilante protagonist fighting against injustice in society.

5. Is Indian 2 suitable for family viewing? Indian 2 features intense action sequences and deals with mature themes, so parental discretion is advised for younger viewers.