Pushpa: The Rise marks director Sukumar’s foray into unexplored territory with a rural masala film featuring punch dialogues, characters speaking in a Chittoor dialect, and a story rooted deep in its regional setting. However, the film, coming after the highly successful Rangasthalam, is a mixed bag that delivers on some fronts while faltering on others.
The film follows the rise of Pushpa Raj (Allu Arjun), a coolie in Seshachalam who becomes involved in the illegal trade of red sandalwood. Pushpa learns to navigate the syndicate and rises in ranks, ultimately becoming the one giving orders. However, his Achilles heel is his brother’s refusal to acknowledge his lineage, causing Pushpa to lose his cool and endanger his carefully constructed empire. Matters come to a head when IPS officer Bhanwar Singh Shekawat (Fahadh Faasil) arrives in town to upset the status quo.
Pushpa: The Rise is built on a well-worn story of the rise of the underdog, but Sukumar adds a unique twist by taking the time to set up Pushpa’s character in the first half of the three-hour-long film. The story focuses on the nitty-gritty of red sandalwood smuggling and Pushpa’s contribution to it, which is where the film shines. However, the film falters in its portrayal of the odd and problematic romance between Pushpa and Srivalli (Rashmika Mandanna), which adds little to the story.
The technical aspects of the film, including VFX, art direction, editing, and sound design, suffer due to the rushed production. However, the casting, direction, cinematography, costumes, and music are strong, with Allu Arjun’s performance as Pushpa being the standout. The action sequences are well-choreographed, and the supporting cast, including Anasuya Baradwaj and Sunil, deliver strong performances.
Overall, Pushpa: The Rise is Allu Arjun’s show, and he shines in his portrayal of a rustic character who is hard on the surface but vulnerable beneath. While the film is a mixed bag, it sets up things for a potential sequel, making viewers curious about what’s to come.
