Ponniyin Selvan 2 REVIEW: Aishwarya Rai Bachchan steals the show as Nandini, Mani Ratnam delivers a spectacular yet ‘worth watching’ sequel

Saheli Maity

April 28, 2023
3:55 pm
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Ponniyin Selvan 2 is a worth-watching film, all thanks to Mani Ratnam's spectacular vision, and its magnificent cinematography. Read review

Ponniyin Selvan 2 REVIEW:

It was only last night when I finished watching Ponniyin Selvan Part 1. Before watching it, I have been told that it is a complicated story and you’ll take some time to actually grasp the story. I was a little worried to watch Ponniyin Selvan, given the fact I had to review the second part the next day. Surprisingly, I actually liked the first part and not that difficult to follow.

I was enjoying the grandness of PS 1 and it was intact in the second part as well. In fact, for me, PS2 seemed like the second half of the movie. It was visually stunning with larger-than-life characters. Ponniyin Selvan Part 2 picked up exactly where it ended. So, you don’t get to see a break between the two. If you watch both movies back to back, you can understand the continuation.

Highlights of PS 2:

The best thing about the first part as well as the second part was the cinematography. It was a visually spectacular movie that just teleport you to the world of the Chola dynasty. I liked how every frame has a story to tell, every frame looked so artistic. I guess that is the kind of magic the historical drama or period drama film holds. The first half of the movie was quite engaging and quickly update you with a recap of the first part of the film.

Based on Kalki’s novel on the Chola dynasty, Ponniyin Selvan Part 2 showed the Game of Thrones in more detail. And when The questions that rose in my mind while watching the first part were answered in the second part. I liked how Mani Ratnam wrote every character beautifully and with depth. Even though Mandakini (the mute queen) is shown for like 5 mins, her character had a lot of meaning. Mani Ratnam did a fantastic job in that.

Drawbacks of PS 2:

While the first part of PS 2 was engaging and intriguing, I still felt it was rushed in some parts. Be it the death of a character or falling in love, some things seemed to be done in a hurry. However, the second half seemed to be taking its own sweet time to conclude. It seemed quite dragged and stretched. The movie could have easily been cut down to 2 hours. Yes, I can understand that Mani Ratnam wanted to take time to build the emotions but it could have nicely minced. The pace can be a problem. However, I felt the first part was a bit more interesting than the second part.

Star performances:

Vikram packed a powerful performance as Aditya Karikalan, the prince. He played his part to perfection from his stance to his poise. He gave out kingly vibes. Karthi played the role of Aditya’s trusted aide and friend Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan. His character is someone you always want in your life. His innocence, his boyish charm and his bravery will surely captivate you and Karthi played it flawlessly.

Jayam Ravi essayed the role of Prince Arunmozhi Varman. His character somewhat reminded me of Amarendra Baahubali from the Baahubali series. Nevertheless, I have not seen him doing action much but he did a fantastic job.

There were no words for Aishwarya Rai Bachchan when I saw her on-screen as Nandini, wife of Periya Pazhuvettaraiyar. Whenever she used to come onscreen, she demanded our undivided attention. Her subtle makeup and her queenly vibes reminded me of the Jodhaa Akbar days. Nandini’s character seemed to be tailor-made for her as Aishwarya brought the exuberance in the character.

Conclusion:

Overall, Ponniyin Selvan Part 2 is a worth-watching film, all thanks to Mani Ratnam’s spectacular vision, and its magnificent cinematography. The first half of the movie is nicely knit while the second half seemed a bit drag. Last but not least, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Vikram were the showstoppers of PS 2. They were phenomenal.

Watch the Ponniyin Selvan 2 trailer after the review: