BOTTOM LINE
Runs Out Of Fun
OUR RATING
2.25/5
CENSOR
U/A, 2h 43m
What Is the Film About?
Sathya (Sivakarthikeyan) is a timid guy from the slums who wants no fight with anyone. He is ready to compromise and adjust for anything. Sathya is a cartoonist, but his nature allows someone else to take credit for him.
What happens when Sathya and his family, along with the slum people, are moved to a new apartment building? What are the problems they face, and how it brings Sathya face to face with the minister responsible for the issue? The movie’s core plot is how a timid Sathya overcomes the higher power to become a hero for the people.
Performances
Sivakarthikeyan plays another relatable part which also offers him something fresh to do. So, here he is again playing the boy next door kind of guy, but he has a fearful quality. He brings out the body language neatly for the part and shows a gradual growth in the character as it progresses towards the end.
The action parts are also equally well done. The trait is incorporated to generate typical Sivakarthikeyan fun and simultaneously elevate as a star. Mahaveerudu is a good outing for the lead due to these factors.
Aditi Shankar has a relatively small part compared to the hero. She also has minimal romantic scenes in the traditional sense but has a couple of solid moments to make the exercise worthwhile.
Analysis
Madonne Ashwin, of Mandela fame, directs Mahaveerudu. It is a regular commercial entertainer but comes with a minor tweak that makes the narrative get into superhero mode when necessary.
The basic plot of a commoner taking on a politician is familiar. The director further takes time to get to the moment that changes the power dynamic. The world establishment constitutes a large part of the first half. It is slow and on predictable lines, but the actors and director do a good job of holding things together.
The excitement begins in the narrative when the ‘X-Factor’ involving an internal voice kicks in. The way it’s used in the story brings freshness to the routine flow. The fun and drama are equally built into the proceedings. The entire segment involving the interaction of Sathya with the Minister (especially the heart attack sequence) is a prime example.
The interval offers excitement concerning the action in store; otherwise, it is on predictable lines. But the job is done, and one enthusiastically looks forward to the post-intermission.
The second half has more action and elevation, with neat face-offs between the hero and the villain. The different characterisations and slick execution make it a smooth ride.
There is a necessary drop mid-way, but things pick up again during the pre-climax, and despite the predictability, the climax ends on a satisfactory note. The boat fight during the ‘pre-climax’ is terrific in particular.
Overall, Mahaveerudu has a typical commercial entertainer premise, but the twist in the tale makes it entertaining. However, it runs out of steam and turns repetitive. Try it if you want to see a typical star entertainer but have expectations under check.
Performances by Others Actors
Ravi Teja is the surprise element in the movie providing the voice inside head for it. The dialogue delivery is straight forward, but the situations generate fun giving it the edge.
The supporting cast is limited but has a terrific assemble. Saritha as the mother, is superb as the upright and outspoken woman. The chemistry and emotional moments are handled superbly. Mysskin playing the corrupt Minister brings fun to the typical villain part. Sunil is seen in a significant role of Minister’s secretary and does a decent job. And finally, Yogi Babu shines while providing comedy in his punchy satirical style. Monisha Bleesy is also okay. The rest appearing in bits and pieces roles are competent.
Music and Other Departments?
Bharath Shankar’s music is foot-tapping, but it misses the lyrical punch in Telugu dubbing. The background score is excellent. It gives the proceedings a racy feel even when things appear slow.
Vidhu Ayyanna’s cinematography is fantastic. The realistic feel is maintained while also giving the visuals a big-screen appeal. Philomin Raj’s editing gives a slick look. Technically the movie offers superior quality on the whole, with the action scenes also being choreographed well.
Highlights?
Sivakarthikeyan
BGM
Superhero Element
Action Scenes
Drawbacks?
Slow To Take Off
Thin Story
Repetitive In Second Half
Climax
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, in parts
Mahaveerudu Movie Review by M9News
