Chandramukhi 2, the sequel to the much-celebrated original, revisits the chilling tale masterfully crafted in the horror genre. Directed by P. Vasu, this sequel introduces Raghava Lawrence and Kangana Ranaut as its protagonists. With a well-orchestrated promotional campaign, the film has finally graced the big screen. Let’s delve into its offerings.
Synopsis:
The narrative revolves around a prosperous family led by Radhika Sarathkumar, grappling with various challenges. Upon the advice of Rao Ramesh, they embark on a pilgrimage to their ancestral temple, nestled near the foreboding Vettaiya’s palace. Unbeknownst to them, the malevolent spirit of Chandramukhi haunts these very halls. What trials befall Radhika’s family? How is Madhan (Lawrence) intertwined with their fate? What are the desires of Chandramukhi’s restless spirit? These questions form the crux of Chandramukhi 2.
Highlights:
National Award-winning actress Kangana Ranaut delivers a stellar performance, embodying the enigmatic Chandramukhi with finesse. Her presence on screen is captivating, and her dance sequences are a visual treat.
The film succeeds in refining Chandramukhi’s backstory, tailored to Kangana’s portrayal. The second half brings forth a gripping drama, and Lawrence impressively embodies the role of Vettaiyan.
The climactic action sequence featuring Kangana and Lawrence is a standout, showcasing their commendable intensity. A few emotionally charged scenes resonate strongly, and Lakshmi Menon’s unexpected role is executed adeptly.
Drawbacks:
Chandramukhi 2 falters in its ability to deliver spine-tingling moments. The eerie atmosphere, a fundamental element of any horror film, is notably lacking, leaving audiences wanting.
The focus on drama overshadows the anticipated thrills, which might disappoint fans of the franchise. The initial half feels disjointed with sporadic scenes. The comedy, once a highlight, becomes a major stumbling block in Chandramukhi 2.
Vadivelu’s character adheres to cliches, with the exaggerated and outdated humor potentially grating on viewers. The poorly executed romantic subplot further hampers the film’s impact. Retaining the original ‘Vaarai’ track would have been a wiser choice.
While the backstory undergoes some tweaks, the screenplay format remains largely unchanged. Unlike its predecessor, this sequel lacks the build-up of tension, resulting in a somewhat flat narrative. Trimming certain portions in the first half could have enhanced the pacing.
Technical Prowess:
M.M. Keeravani endeavors to elevate the film with his background score, but the absence of thrilling sequences is a consequence of subpar writing. Cinematographer Rajasekhar’s work is commendable, and the set design is praiseworthy. However, the VFX elements leave room for improvement, and the editing falls short of expectations.
Director’s Touch:
Director P. Vasu infuses Chandramukhi’s backstory with added drama. While supported by Kangana’s remarkable performance, the screenplay and slapstick comedy in the initial hour somewhat diminish the overall impact. The sidelining of the horror element is a notable surprise.
Verdict:
Chandramukhi 2 offers a balanced viewing experience, with the second half outshining the first. The altered original story and compelling performances by Kangana Ranaut and Lawrence are definite strengths. However, the film falls short in delivering the expected thrills of a horror flick. The overdone comedy and initial pacing are its primary drawbacks. While not a disappointment, it fails to attain the memorable status of its predecessor. Chandramukhi 2 is a decent watch, but not a standout entry in the franchise.