Pushpa: The Rule delivers exactly what its fans expect and more. It has all the grandiose, mass-appeal moments fans crave, while also offering genuine, impactful sequences that give viewers goosebumps. This speaks volumes about the filmmaker, Sukumar, rather than just the film itself.
Sukumar’s Genius
Sukumar is a fascinating filmmaker who often disguises himself as a commercial cinema director while crafting deeply artistic narratives. While his films as a whole might seem like well-made commercial ventures, careful observation of specific scenes reveals personal, rooted emotions rarely found in even the best art films.
One hallmark of Sukumar’s storytelling is his flawed protagonists. They aren’t idealized heroes but deeply vulnerable, relatable characters. Unlike most mass filmmakers who make their heroes untouchable saviors, Sukumar embraces their imperfections, making them more human.
Take 1 Nenokkadine as an example. Released a decade ago, this Mahesh Babu-starrer is still referenced in debates about Mahesh’s acting abilities. Though it wasn’t celebrated upon release, it sparked numerous discussions over the years, becoming a cult classic. Similarly, Rangasthalam was a turning point for Ram Charan. Before this film, Ram Charan was primarily seen as Chiranjeevi’s son—a great dancer but with questionable script choices. Sukumar transformed him into an actor of substance, and Rangasthalam remains a landmark film for Telugu cinema, helping it cross borders.
Now with Pushpa, Sukumar layers the narrative under the guise of Allu Arjun’s Pan-India entry. While catering to commercial film demands, he embeds personal themes that make the story resonate.
Pushpa 2’s Depth
At its core, Pushpa is about an emotional man haunted by the lack of a surname. This theme is especially poignant in a culture like that of Telugu-speaking states, where caste and surname play a significant role in societal hierarchies. Sukumar tackles this issue subtly in Pushpa 1 and expands on it beautifully in Pushpa 2.
In a society where caste and surname define people’s lives, Sukumar’s exploration of this subject is groundbreaking. He manages to weave these themes into the narrative without losing the film’s mass appeal.
Allu Arjun’s Performance
Regardless of opinions about Allu Arjun’s off-screen persona, his on-screen transformation in Pushpa 2 is undeniable. His dedication over two decades culminates in this role, and his performance is in a league of its own. For instance, the Jaathara scene leaves audiences awestruck. His portrayal rivals that of Rishab Shetty in Kantara—a trance-inducing performance that elevates the film to another level.
Critique of Telugu Cinema Tropes
Telugu cinema has often relied on the savior complex, especially with male protagonists rescuing women. While Pushpa 1 subverted this trope to some extent, Pushpa 2 uses it more traditionally but still manages to deliver a powerful payoff. Sukumar’s route here may feel less nuanced compared to his usual storytelling style, but it still works within the film’s framework.
Does Pushpa 2 Need a Part 3?
The primary issue with Pushpa 2 lies in its emphasis on sequences over story. Sukumar focuses on crafting impactful moments, leaving the central plot—Pushpa’s dominance in the red sandalwood smuggling mafia—feeling underdeveloped. For viewers expecting a strong narrative, the film might feel like a filler with great scenes and performances.
The cliffhanger ending suggests a part 3, but Pushpa 2 wraps up in such a satisfying manner that audiences might not feel compelled to await another installment.
Ticket Pricing Controversy
The discourse around ticket pricing has been heated. Charging ₹800–₹1,000 for premieres and early screenings feels exorbitant to many. Historically, higher prices were justified for hyped films to help producers recover costs quickly. However, the current trend of steep hikes—from ₹150 to ₹800+—is shifting cinema from a common man’s entertainment to a luxury experience.
That said, if audiences willingly pay these prices, it indicates demand. Producers can reinvest these profits into future projects. The packed premiere screenings of Pushpa 2 suggest this trend is here to stay. So, start saving now for SSMB29. Premium cinema experiences are becoming the new norm!
