Indian 2 Review: Kamal Haasan’s Latest Film Faces Mixed Reactions

Indian 2 Review: Kamal Haasan’s Latest Film Faces Mixed Reactions

Despite the initial reactions, it’s important to watch the film and provide a complete review. So, let’s delve into the strengths and weaknesses of “Indian 2.”

Directed by Shankar, “Indian 2” features Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar, S.J. Surya, Samuthirakani, Jagan, Vivek, Bobby Simha, and Nedumudi Venu. The film, after years of delays, has finally hit the theaters today.

Plot of Indian 2:

Siddharth runs a YouTube channel called ‘Parking Talks’ with his friends Priya Bhavani Shankar and Jagan. They expose corruption through their videos but feel their efforts are in vain. They wish for the return of ‘Indian Thaatha’ (Kamal Haasan’s character from the first film) and create the hashtag #ComebackIndian.

Kalidas Jayaram, watching from a foreign country, informs them that Indian Thaatha is alive. He advises him to return to India. Back in India, Bobby Simha, the son of Nedumudi Venu’s character, tries to arrest Indian Thaatha. 

Film Review:

“Indian 2” is a film that every Indian should watch for its story and message. Director Shankar has crafted a narrative that emphasizes both Indian Thaatha’s unique ability to cleanse the country and encourages the youth to tackle corruption at home. Shankar’s intellect shines in the story, but the execution falters.

The film mixes elements of Indian Thaatha with Shankar’s previous character, Anniyan, which feels repetitive. Some comedy scenes with Vivek work, but Bobby Simha’s parts are less effective. Shankar’s heavy reliance on Varma Kalai doesn’t satisfy the audience, especially when depicting aged characters transforming into muscular fighters in an instant.

Positives:

1. Shankar’s grand making often leaves us in awe.
2. Kamal Haasan’s prosthetic makeup and action scenes, including the metro train fight, are impressive.
3. The film includes references to real-life figures like Vijay Mallya and opulent scenes, such as a golden toilet, which highlight corruption.
4. The second half emotionally connects with the audience, showing the corrupt practices of Siddharth’s YouTube team’s families.
5. Samuthirakani delivers a strong performance.
6. Siddharth tries his best to act convincingly.
7. Anirudh’s background music and A.R. Rahman’s theme from the original “Indian” add strength.

Negatives:

1. The initial scenes with Siddharth and his team’s YouTube activities drag, and the climax’s Tom and Jerry-like chase fails to engage.
2. The film raises questions, such as why Kamal Haasan’s character fights corruption in other states but spares a key figure in Tamil Nadu, played by S.J. Surya.
3. “Indian 2” doesn’t evoke the same feelings as the first film, feeling weaker in comparison.
4. It’s considered one of Shankar’s less impressive works.

“Indian 2” has its moments of grandeur and powerful messages, but it also has significant shortcomings. While it may not match the impact of the original “Indian,” it remains a film that encourages viewers to reflect on their own integrity and actions. 

Who are the main actors in “Indian 2”?