Plot
Part two of Ponniyin Selvan continues the story from where part one ended. The last steps are being taken in Nandini’s plan to kill the heirs and end the Chola Empire. Did Nandini’s dreams come to fruition? Why did she first aim to assassinate the Chola heirs? The responses to these form the core of Ponniyin Selvan 2.
The audience is captivated by the expertly presented drama with the fantastic, diverse ensemble. It also helps that many of these characters are well-known to us. After the break, the pace picks back up as we move closer to the story’s turning points—the peak of the emotion when a few threads are wrapped up in the second half.
A significant struggle for the throne is the result of all the upheaval. A gigantic military scenario is skillfully but sparingly filmed from above. One feels unsatisfied at the finale due to this, and the strands of several well-known characters are not resolved.
Review
The movie is part 2 of Ponniyin Selvan, based on the novels by Kalki Krishnamurthy, and continues from the end of part 1. Chola heirs under attack, messenger captured an intriguing story. Aishwarya Rai has the lead dual role in the second part and performs well as an older woman.
Vikram and Aishwarya Rai’s confrontation scenes are well executed, but Karthi’s character lacks the same fun factor as in part one. J. Ravi is impressive in emotional scenes while portraying his dramatic role with a clinical style. Trisha is good but needs more big moments compared to the first outing.
With numerous performers playing various roles, the film has a large canvas. Playing minor but significant roles are Prakash Raj, Jayaram, Parthiban, Rahman, Shobita Dhulipala, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Sarath Kumar, Prabhu, Vikram Prabhu, Lal, etc. They are good in their roles and bring life to the story. AR Rahman’s music and Ravi Varman’s cinematography are both excellent. Given the scope, the lighting and images add to the natural vibe, and the editing is adequate.
Rating: 4/5
Despite its flaws, Ponniyin Selvan 2 is still engaging to viewers who are familiar with the characters and setting. With the correct expectations from the outset, the scale, ambition, and casting make this a once-only viewing. Due to the above facts, a score of four stars out of five was granted.
Mani Ratnam is the director. Subaskaran, Suhasini Maniratnam, and Mani Ratnam are the producers. Vikram, Karthi, Aishwarya Rai, Jayam Ravi, and Trisha lead from the front and perform crucial roles. On April 28, 2023, it was made available. Amazon Prime Video will host the film’s digital premiere.
