Pushpa (2021) Movie Download
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Pushpa The Rise (2021) Movie Review
Director: Sukumar
Cast: Allu Arjun, Fahadh Faasil, Rashmika Mandanna, Sunil, and others
Music: Devi Sri Prasad
Language: Telugu (also dubbed in Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam)
Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Runtime: 179 minutes
Plot Summary:
Pushpa: The Rise is set in the dense forests of Seshachalam in Andhra Pradesh and follows the story of Pushpa Raj (played by Allu Arjun), a rebellious and ambitious man from a lower caste. He works in the illegal red sandalwood smuggling business, a lucrative yet dangerous operation. Pushpa is a sharp, cunning character who rises through the ranks of the syndicate, eventually clashing with political and criminal figures, including the ruthless Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil), who is introduced in the second half of the film. As Pushpa battles his way through internal and external struggles, the film explores themes of power, betrayal, love, and pride.
Review:
1. Allu Arjun’s Performance:
Allu Arjun delivers an electrifying performance as Pushpa Raj, a character who is a mix of raw aggression, wit, and charm. His portrayal of the character is both intense and grounded, showcasing his versatility. From his body language to his dialogues, Arjun brings a sense of authenticity to the role. His signature “Pushpa” swag — including the iconic raised eyebrow — has become one of the film’s most memorable aspects.
His performance is arguably the film’s highlight, with a significant emphasis on the character’s journey from an underdog to a powerful figure. The raw emotion, subtle nuances, and the sheer energy he brings to the screen are commendable.
2. Direction & Screenplay:
Sukumar’s direction is a standout in Pushpa: The Rise. Known for his work in films like Rangasthalam, Sukumar’s storytelling is rich in local flavor, with a keen focus on the socio-political backdrop of the region. The film is slow-paced in the beginning, but this works in favor of character development, allowing the audience to invest emotionally in Pushpa’s rise.
The screenplay blends elements of action, drama, and thriller, with sharp writing that weaves in the character’s personal and professional growth. However, the narrative does drag a bit in places, particularly in the first half, where the film delves into a lot of setup and exposition.
3. Visuals and Cinematography:
Cinematography by Mirosław Kuba Broż is one of the film’s strongest technical aspects. The lush forests of Seshachalam are captured beautifully, and the cinematography elevates the film’s visual storytelling. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed, especially in the second half, where Pushpa’s conflict with the antagonists intensifies.
The film’s visuals are gritty and raw, giving it a grounded realism that enhances the atmosphere. The rural setting is portrayed with authenticity, and the cinematography captures the underbelly of the red sandalwood smuggling industry with finesse.
4. Music & Background Score:
Devi Sri Prasad’s music is another massive asset to Pushpa: The Rise. The songs are catchy, with “Oo Antava” becoming an instant hit. The music complements the tone of the film, especially the background score, which amps up the tension during crucial moments. The powerful beats and aggressive rhythms match Pushpa’s character and the mood of the film.
However, while the songs are a hit, they do not entirely drive the narrative forward. Instead, they serve as thematic and emotional underpinnings to the film’s various sequences.
5. Supporting Cast:
- Rashmika Mandanna plays Srivalli, Pushpa’s love interest. Though her character doesn’t have a major impact in the film’s larger narrative, her chemistry with Allu Arjun is evident, and she brings a soft charm to the role.
- Fahadh Faasil’s introduction towards the end of the film is a game-changer. Though his screen time is limited, he makes an indelible impact with his cold and menacing presence. His character is set to play a crucial role in the sequel, Pushpa: The Rule, and Fahadh promises to bring depth to the confrontation between him and Pushpa.
- Sunil, who plays an antagonist named Jolly Reddy, offers strong support in the villainous role. His scenes with Pushpa are filled with tension.
6. Themes and Social Commentary:
At its core, Pushpa: The Rise is a story of defiance and the pursuit of power. It touches on class disparity, the exploitation of natural resources, and the corrupt systems that thrive on illegal activities. Pushpa’s journey can be seen as an underdog story, where an individual fights to break free from his societal constraints and make a name for himself.
The film doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of the smuggling trade, the manipulation of political and criminal networks, and the unrelenting nature of power. Pushpa’s rebellion is not just against the system but against societal norms that have kept him marginalized.
Final Verdict:
Pushpa: The Rise is a thrilling, action-packed film that introduces a compelling, larger-than-life protagonist in Pushpa Raj. Allu Arjun’s performance is the heart of the film, and the film’s direction, music, and visuals complement his star power. While the film has its pacing issues and stretches in parts, the overall experience is gripping, with a strong build-up to a sequel that promises to take the story to new heights.
If you are a fan of raw, mass-action dramas with powerful performances and an intense underdog story, Pushpa: The Rise is a must-watch.
Rating: 3.5/5