Indian 2 | Movie Review

Director: S. Shankar
Star Cast: Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, Rakul Preet Singh, Priya Bhavani Shankar
Language: Hindi
Available On: Theatrical release
Runtime: 180 Minutes
Review Rating: ⭐⭐⭐(3/5)

Plot Summary:
28 years later, Indian 2 brings back the indomitable Senapathy (Kamal Haasan), now living in Taipei, practicing and teaching the ancient Tamil art of Varma Kalai. He is called back into action by a social media group of vigilantes named the “Barking Dogs,” who are frustrated by the corruption and social evils plaguing India. The hashtag #ComeBackIndian goes viral, and Senapathy responds, flying back to India while evading traps laid by the authorities.

Once back, he urges the youth of India to cleanse their own homes of corruption before tackling societal problems. However, this mission gradually pits him against not just the corrupt but also the very vigilantes who initially summoned him, leading to dramatic confrontations.

Script Analysis:
S. Shankar, a master of mixing entertainment with social commentary, delivers a film packed with action, vigilante justice, and larger-than-life drama. The storyline draws on classic 90s vigilante narratives, combining high-octane action sequences with a strong moral message. While the film’s length (180 minutes) may be daunting, Shankar keeps the audience engaged with well-crafted characters and tense encounters.

The film’s vigilante group, the Barking Dogs, initially champions Senapathy’s cause, but as their personal lives unravel, they face the consequences of their actions. The narrative explores themes of justice, personal responsibility, and social reform, but it occasionally loses focus, especially during the climactic chase scenes, which stretch logic.

Still, the story builds toward a satisfying conclusion, with Senapathy’s arc intersecting with that of Krishnaswamy’s son, Pramod (Bobby Simha). Their tense interactions, especially in the final act, add depth to the otherwise action-heavy narrative.

Star Performance:
Kamal Haasan once again proves why he’s considered a “Universal Star.” His portrayal of Senapathy is nuanced and powerful, with his eyes and voice carrying much of the film’s emotional weight. Despite heavy makeup and prosthetics, Haasan’s performance remains captivating, particularly in the way he delivers his lines in multiple languages, including Gujarati and Punjabi. His commanding presence drives the film forward, making it hard to look away whenever he’s on screen.

Supporting performances are equally strong, especially S. J. Suryah as the corrupt Sarguna Pandian and Samuthirakani as Chithra’s father, who both deliver standout performances. Siddharth, Priya Bhavani Shankar, and Jagan are impressive as the Barking Dogs members, each bringing a unique energy to their roles.

However, Rakul Preet Singh’s role feels almost non-existent, a wasted opportunity for a more substantial part in the storyline.

Direction and Music:
S. Shankar’s direction ensures that Indian 2 remains visually stunning. He utilizes cutting-edge techniques like Motion Capture and CGI to create a futuristic, stylized world where the vigilante group operates. The elaborate set pieces and action sequences are meticulously crafted, and the film’s pacing is well-managed, even if some logical leaps toward the end may raise eyebrows.

Shankar excels in dramatic sequences, particularly those involving family dynamics and moments of intense personal conflict, such as after Chithra’s mother’s death. These scenes bring a human element to the otherwise grand narrative of social justice.

Anirudh Ravichander’s music is mostly about creating atmosphere, with the background score elevating the tension in key moments. While the songs are not particularly memorable, the “Calendar song” sequence featuring Gulshan Grover and Demi-Leigh Tebow stands out visually and musically.

The Last Word:
Indian 2 is a satisfying blend of action, drama, and social commentary. Kamal Haasan’s return as Senapathy is a treat for fans, and S. Shankar’s direction ensures that the film is both visually impressive and emotionally engaging. While the film has its share of flaws, particularly in the length and some logic-defying scenes, it remains a highly entertaining watch, especially for those who enjoy vigilante dramas.

Verdict: Watch for Kamal Haasan’s powerful performance and S. Shankar’s visually stunning direction.

For more recommendations, read our Bad Newz Movie Review here.