Baahubali 2 The Conclusion review: Prabhas shines in the cinematic masterpiece by SS Rajamouli
From the very first scene, the film is a visual extravaganza.
For two years, audiences were left perplexed with the cliffhanger question "Why Kattappa killed Baahubali" in the first part of the movie Baahubali. And now, to answer that and more, director SS Rajamouli is back with Baahubali 2: The Conclusion.
Rajamouli's ambitious project reflects on the opulent culture of ancient India, where women enjoyed equal power in society as their male counterparts.
Made with a budget of 2.5bn rupees (£30m), the film is a masterpiece of brilliant cinematography that has set an example for the Indian movie industry for years to come.
With splendid background music, an impeccable cast ensemble, a well-written script and power-packed dialogues, the film is wining millions of hearts across India and abroad.
The sequel goes back in time to narrate the evil plot that destroyed Amarendra and his family and whether or not his son Mahendra will be able to avenge the wrongdoings of his uncle.
The plot revolves around two warrior princes Amarendra Baahubali (Prabhas) and Bhallala Deva (Rana Daggubati), who are cousins, raised by queen mother Sivagami. The valour and kindness of Baahu make him the first choice to be the next ruler of the fictional Kingdom of Maahishmathi. However, driven by jealousy, Daggubati's character tries to kill Sivagami after the death of Amarendra and she is forced to escape the kingdom to protect the baby of Amarendra and his wife Devasenaa in the first film.
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion opens with a jaw-dropping sequence where prince Amarendra pulls of a stunning act by taming a mad elephant to help his mother fulfil her oath.
Fine performances by Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami, Anushka Shetty as Devasena and Sathyaraj as Kattappa bring the royal characters back to life. Daggubati is so good in his role that now a lot of Indian fans have expressed hatred for the evil king Bhalla.
From the very first scene, the film is a visual extravaganza. Every frame is meticulously captured by SS Rajamouli and his team. This is the first Indian film hailed for excelling in visual effects. The grandeur of Devasena's kingdom, the stunning dream sequence where a swan-shaped ship ferries Devasena and Baahubali to a romance-filled dream world and the giant elephant that welcomes visitors to Maahishmathi need special mention.
No fantasy film is complete without over-the-top action sequences. Amarendra and his son Mahendra (both played by Prabhas) know unique warfare methods that are beyond logical boundaries but are a treat to the eyes.
Though one wants to see more of the romance of Devasena and Baahubali, no complaints. Prabhas shines in the film that delves into the age-old saga of the triumph of good over evil. Daggubati is ferocious as the cruel king. Anushka personifies Devasena and sets an example for women empowerment.
However, the real star of the film is Rajamouli and his imagination that has opened up a myriad of possibilities for the Indian film industry to look beyond monotony and explore ancient Indian culture which was nearly forgotten by Bollywood.
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