Bahubali 2: An epic end to the blockbuster

The much-awaited movie of the year, Bahubali 2: The Conclusion released to packed theaters in Dubai yesterday.
 
This epic historical fiction film directed by S.S. Rajamouli is the continuation of 2015's Bahubali: The Beginning. Fans of the film waited with bated breath for over a year to find out 'Why Katappa killed Bahubali'. Many rumoured messages did rounds on WhatsApp yesterday speculating the end but don't believe in any. Head to the cinemas near you to get your answer.
 
The film starts in the flashback mode tracing the beginnings of the family conflict. The brewing love story between Anushka and Prabhas seems a bit stretched in the first half and could have been crisper. But it is the twist in their romantic tale that changes the course of the film.
 
Prabhas, playing the dual role of Bahubali and his son, delivers a stellar performance. The director captures his machoism and vulnerability with an ace and not a single frame is disappointing. Anushka Shetty as his love interest has an evolved role and shines as the strong-minded warrior princess and the aging mother towards the end- with equal ease. Rajamouli's proficiency comes through in the way he handles the simple screenplay and keeps you glued to the screen - scene by scene.
 
What stands out in the film is the powerful star cast. Enough has been said already about the acting prowess of Prabhas but he has an equally supportive cast to hold the film. Ramya Krishnan as Sivagami, is known for her impressive acting talent and proves her mettle here. Another veteran, Sathyaraj as Katappa excels and you develop a camaraderie with him.
 
Rana Daggubati is aptly spiteful in his portrayal of the villain Bhallala Deva and stands out for his trunk-sized biceps and fighting abilities towards the end. Nassar, as his father, is busy spewing venom but his role could have been meatier.
 
Everything is larger than life in Bahubali 2 - the palace, the courtrooms, and even the elephants. As expected, the VFX in the film makes it a visual treat but the makers have gone overboard at times, making few frames look unreal. The huge courtroom scene will give a 'Game of Thrones' feel but watch it for the magnificence. Other scenes to watch out for are the war scene in first half, the coronation of the king and the final fight between Bhalla and Bahubali in the end.
 
Like in the earlier film, songs depicting the romantic dream sequence seem unnecessary and could have been done away with. Few others sung by Daler Mehndi and Kailash Kher play in the background and take the narrative ahead.
 
As the film approached the climax, you could see the audience getting restless in the long fighting sequence between Bahubali and Bhalla. Too many structures are broken, statues are uprooted and you wait for the fight to end. But overall, it is a cinematic experience you need to watch on the big screen.
 
Without any second thoughts, Bahubali 2: The Conclusion has to be on your weekend to-do list.
 
Starring: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Tamannaah Bhatti, Anushka Shetty, Ramya Krishnan.
Directed by: S.S. Rajamouli
Rating: 3.5/5
Now playing at theatres in the UAE