Table of Contents
Kanguva Movie Review
Cast: Suriya, Bobby Deol, Disha Patani, Yogi Babu, Anandaraj, Kovai Sarala, Redin Kingsley, Natarajan Subramaniam & others
Director: ‘Siruthai’ Siva
Producers: K. E. Gnanavel Raja, V. Vamsi Krishna Reddy & Pramod Uppalapati
Banner: Studio Green & UV Creations
Music: Devi Sri Prasad
Overview
After a two and half year hiatus, Suriya returns to the big screen in Kanguva, a period fantasy action adventure directed by ‘Siruthai’ Siva. With a talented cast including Disha Patani, Bobby Deol, and Yogi Babu, this film had all the ingredients for a memorable cinematic experience. However, while Kanguva had an interesting premise and grand production values, it ultimately falls short of expectations due to an over the top execution and lack of emotional connection.
Kanguva Movie Review
Kanguva Movie Review
Storyline
Francis (Suriya) is a bounty hunter based in Goa, teaming up with his ex girlfriend Angela (Disha Patani) and his friend (Yogi Babu). During a mission, they encounter a mysterious child, Zeta, who shares an unexplainable connection with Francis. As the plot unfolds, the audience is introduced to the complex backstory involving Kanguva and Poruva, which links Francis and Zeta in surprising ways. This fantasy driven tale of lineage, mystery, and identity attempts to blend the past with the present but loses its impact due to poor execution.
Performances
Suriya delivers a commendable performance in the dual roles of Francis and Kanguva. His expressive eyes and strong presence add gravitas to his portrayal, especially as the legendary warrior Kanguva. However, Disha Patani’s role as Angela feels underwhelming and fails to contribute significantly to the storyline, with her scenes feeling forced and lacking relevance. Kanguva Movie Review.
Bobby Deol as Udhiran brings a unique flair to the film, but his character suffers from weak writing and a peculiar look that doesn’t enhance the narrative. Yogi Babu, Kovai Sarala, and other notable actors are also underutilized, with even Babu’s comedy, usually a high point, falling flat. A surprise cameo by a popular star towards the end is included to set up a sequel, but it lacks the intended impact.
Direction and Screenplay
Siva’s attempt to create a large scale fantasy adventure is ambitious, but his direction struggles to find the right tone. He introduces an engaging premise but follows it with a series of exaggerated action sequences and melodrama that dilute the story’s emotional weight. The Goa episodes in the first half drag the plot, making it feel disjointed and disconnected from the main storyline. While the second half marginally improves with a few well executed scenes, the overall narrative feels bloated and repetitive. Kanguva Movie Review.
Technical Aspects
The technical team behind Kanguva deserves recognition for their efforts, especially Vetri Palaniswamy’s cinematography. His use of lighting and framing, particularly during night scenes and in lush, forested areas, captures the film’s period setting beautifully. However, the VFX used throughout the film remains average, failing to bring the desired immersive quality to the fantasy sequences.
Devi Sri Prasad’s music, typically a strength in such films, is disappointing here. Aside from the “Mannippu” song and a background score piece in the second half, the soundtrack is largely forgettable and distracts from the film rather than enhancing it. Additionally, Nishad Yusuf’s editing is inconsistent, with fast cuts in the first half that disrupt the flow and add to the visual chaos. Kanguva Movie Review.
Positives
- Suriya’s performance, especially as Kanguva, is compelling.
- The core plot is intriguing and had the potential to be engaging.
- Two notable scenes, one in each half, bring brief relief to an otherwise uneven experience.
- Cinematography captures the period setting effectively.
Negatives
- Disappointing music and background score by Devi Sri Prasad.
- Characters’ overly exaggerated looks detract from the period authenticity.
- First half Goa episode lacks cohesion and feels unnecessary.
- Insufficient emotional depth and excessive melodrama.
- Over-the-top and predictable storytelling reduces impact.
Verdict
Since the release of Baahubali, filmmakers across India have been drawn to creating high stakes, visually striking period films for a broader audience. However, Kanguva illustrates that without proper balance, such attempts can backfire. The film’s excessive local flavor, combined with loud performances and predictable sequences, undermines its appeal. Kanguva may have started as an exciting concept on paper, but the weak execution and lack of subtlety in direction leave it struggling to connect with audiences.
With a convoluted narrative, inconsistent music, and poorly written supporting characters, Kanguva is unlikely to make a significant mark at the box office. Though the climax hints at a sequel, it remains uncertain whether there will be enough interest to justify a second part. Kanguva Movie Review.
Kanguva Movie Review
Rating: 2/5
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