Kanguva Movie Review: A Visual Spectacle, But Lacking a Strong Story?
Kanguva, starring Suriya, has been a much-anticipated pan-India release. Clocking in at 2 hours and 34 minutes, the film aims for a grand visual experience. While some have hailed its visuals, even comparing them to “Baahubali” and suggesting that director S.S. Rajamouli should learn about visuals from Kanguva, the film’s reception has been mixed, with many questioning if stunning visuals alone are enough.
Movie Overview & Initial Impressions
Upon watching Kanguva, it’s clear that Suriya delivers his best, giving his all to the role. However, a movie isn’t just about visuals; it also requires a strong story and solid content. Kanguva, unfortunately, serves as an example of what happens when that balance is missing, often feeling like a “tiring movie.” The first half becomes engaging after about thirty minutes, offering a “not bad” experience overall. The second half, however, makes you wonder, “Will this Kanguva ever stop?” In essence, it’s “visually rich, but content-wise… nothing.” For those who prioritize grand visuals and action over story, logic, or magic, Kanguva might appeal. Otherwise, it’s primarily for its visuals and 3D effects.
The Storyline
The basic premise follows a hero working as a bounty hunter in 2024. The story unfolds after a child approaches him, revealing connections to events thousands of years in the past. It delves into what transpired centuries ago and how it links to the present day. A notable point is the announcement of a “Part 2” in the climax, introducing a main character and setting up an elaborate sequel. This raises concerns about how many films will sacrifice their first part’s completeness for a second.
Kanguva’s Strengths: The Visuals & Performances
The Kanguva trailer promised grand, old-age visuals, and the film delivers on this front. About thirty minutes into the movie, when it shifts to events hundreds of years ago, the visuals are truly “stunning.” Key visual highlights include scenes on a boat in the ocean, the action sequences, and the climax. The “Adimeeripoi” song composition before the interval, along with its action design and shooting style, is visually superb.
Suriya, in both his warrior and modern avatars, with his chiseled body, performs admirably. His acting in the 20-minute climax episode is particularly strong, as is the unrevealed character introduced in the climax, who is also “stunning.” DSP’s music is good, elevating several scenes and significantly contributing to the film. Director Siva’s inclusion of some new elements and the detailing of tribes are convincing and well-done. The 3D effects are numerous and well-executed, making the film “visually too good.”
Where Kanguva Falls Short: Story, Emotion, and Logic
Despite being a pan-India film, the initial thirty minutes setting up Suriya’s modern role is genuinely disappointing. Disha Patani’s role is forced and narrated “silly,” leading to frustration in the first half-hour. The “Ulla” song in this segment felt unnecessary, perhaps included to justify Disha Patani’s presence. The second half begins with a melodrama scene, causing the story to become unclear, prompting questions like, “Is this all there is to the story?”
A major weakness is the complete lack of emotion in the main child’s role; the child’s acting is not impactful, which is a significant blow to half the film. Disha Patani and Bobby Deol, despite their names, have “very limited roles” and fail to create a significant impact, with Bobby Deol’s character having more dialogue than action.
The film completely lacks logic and detailing, leaving key questions about reincarnation or technology unanswered. Logic is absent, with instances like the hero running like a “bullet-hit racehorse” or easily overpowering a large crocodile with his bare hands.
Direction & Recurring Themes
Director Siva, known for previous films like ‘Viswasam,’ ‘Vivegam,’ ‘Anna,’ ‘Vedalam,’ and ‘Sowryam,’ often features a main female character (daughter or sister) around whom the hero’s role revolves. Kanguva follows a similar pattern, returning to this familiar narrative structure, even if the specific role is not revealed. The second half, in particular, strays from the already thin story, resulting in arbitrary events. The film lacks the necessary emotion for such a story, and the casting of the young boy might have hindered this; a different child actor could have brought more emotion.
The 3D Experience
The 3D effects are a standout feature, being “very, very good.” If you choose to watch this film in theaters, it is highly recommended to “prefer 3D.”
Verdict & Rating
For audiences who prioritize visuals, action, good sound, and 3D effects over a compelling story, Kanguva in theaters might be a worthwhile experience. Otherwise, be aware that it’s primarily for its visuals and 3D. My personal opinion and rating for Kanguva is 2.5/5.
