HanuMan: A Good Start to the Indian Superhero Franchise

HanuMan Movie Review: Prasanth Varma, known for his penchant for experimentation in filmmaking, introduces the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) with his latest offering, "HanuMan." In this ambitious creation, starring Teja Sajja, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Amritha Aiyer, and Vinay Rai, Varma crafts a narrative that initially feels like a familiar superhero origin story, but ultimately unveils its unique charm.

The film centers around Hanumanthu (Teja), a small-time thief leading a simple life with his sister Anjamma (Varalaxmi) in the secluded village of Anjanadri. When Hanumanthu stumbles upon a totem that unlocks extraordinary abilities, it attracts the attention of Michael (Vijay) and his friend Siri (Vennela Kishore). The narrative takes a turn, putting Anjanadri and the world in jeopardy, demanding Hanumanthu to rise to the challenge.

Varma takes his time building the story, infusing humor through characters like Srinu, Satya, and a charismatic monkey named Koti. The film gains momentum when Hanumanthu discovers his newfound powers, offering an engaging blend of entertainment and self-discovery. The heart of "HanuMan" lies in the underdog's journey, echoing the essence of Lord Hanuman, coupled with the endearing relationship he shares with his sister.

The film's strengths shine in its depiction of Anjanadri's universe, supported by the commendable music of Anudeep Dev, Gowra Hari, and Krishna Saurabh, along with Dasaradhi Sivendra's cinematography. The folk song "Avakaya Anjaneya" adds a touch of fun to Hanumanthu's character development.

While the film excels in its initial storytelling, it encounters some stumbling blocks. The introduction of a love story and an additional villain, while entertaining, seems disconnected and underdeveloped. The focus on these sub-plots leaves viewers longing for a deeper exploration of Michael's character, whose initial threat is established but not fully realized.

The VFX work in "HanuMan" is a mixed bag, with standout moments showcasing Anjanadri's beauty but others, particularly emotional sequences and the climax, suffering from less-than-ideal CGI. The helicopter shots seem like amateurish appearance.

In conclusion, "HanuMan" marks a commendable start to the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, offering a delightful mix of humor, mythology, and superhero elements. While the film could benefit from a more focused narrative and polished CGI, it succeeds in drawing audiences into the unique universe of Anjanadri, leaving them eager to explore more within the PVCU.

  Rating: 3/5 stars