Amidst a plethora of South Indian content making waves, Kanguva arrives not just as a game-changer but as a game-elevator. From its innovative concept to the music, to presenting the actors in an entirely new way, and next-level action sequences, everything in this film adds up to an experience like never before.
Most of the praise should go to the refreshing new concept. The way director Siva distinguishes two different worlds—a prehistoric era and a modern one—is unlike anything anyone has imagined before. Trust the South industry to innovate and bring forth concepts that are both mass-appealing and very unique.
Kanguva Story
Kanguva’s narrative weaves together past and present through two parallel timelines. In 2024, Francis (Suriya), a bounty hunter, encounters a child who stirs memories of his past. A thousand years prior, Kanga, also known as Kanguva (Suriya), is a prince of his tribe facing relentless conflicts. His village, Perumachi, is threatened by Romanians determined to conquer and dominate.
The danger doesn’t stop with the Romanians—another formidable clan, led by the fierce Udhiran (Bobby Deol), joins the fray, further endangering Perumachi. The clash between the clans escalates into a direct confrontation between Kanga and Udhiran. The connection between Francis in the present and Kanga in the past is at the heart of the story.
Performances
Suriya’s performance is the linchpin holding Kanguva together. Portraying dual roles as Kanguva and Francis, he delivers a commanding and earnest performance, bringing depth and contrast to each character. His dedication is palpable, whether in intense combat or emotional moments.
While Suriya shines, Bobby Deol’s portrayal as the antagonist falls short. Despite his attempts to embody menace with shifts in expression and dramatic head tilts, the character’s impact is diluted, making him feel underutilised in a role that demanded more.
Disha Patani’s role, unfortunately, does not leave a lasting impression, as she is overshadowed by supporting actors who take on more dynamic action scenes.
Direction and Cinematography
The film’s concept is its most praiseworthy asset. Siva’s vision, which juxtaposes a prehistoric era with the modern world, is groundbreaking in its execution. The contrast between these worlds is captured beautifully through Vetri Palanisamy’s stunning cinematography, showcasing vivid, atmospheric visuals that breathe life into the screen. The transition between eras is seamless, heightening the narrative’s tension and energy.
The film’s action sequences are a standout feature, reminiscent of the grandeur of Baahubali, each meticulously designed with impressive conceptual brilliance. One remarkable sequence sees Suriya’s character fighting an entire army in a jungle, using both the terrain and animals to strategic advantage. Such scenes not only showcase creativity but also elevate the film to a visual spectacle.
Music
One major drawback of Kanguva is its auditory intensity. The film is among the loudest in recent memory, with characters like Suriya and Redin Kingsley often operating at high decibel levels. Coupled with Devi Sri Prasad’s thundering background score, this relentless sonic assault can be overwhelming, leaving the audience yearning for moments of silence.
The music, while generally well-composed, occasionally overstays its welcome, echoing in the mind long after the credits roll. That said, the “Fire Song” stands out for its auditory and visual splendor, featuring top-notch choreography.
Drawback
Despite these flaws, Kanguva shines in its last act. The climactic twist at the interval and the final hour of intercut action sequences between the past and present are executed with finesse, maintaining the audience’s edge-of-the-seat anticipation. Siva’s direction during these segments showcases his ability to weave two different timelines seamlessly, making for exhilarating viewing. The distinct fighting styles, varied terrains, and period-specific weapons add to the uniqueness, ensuring the transitions remain smooth and immersive.
However, Kanguva ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. The film’s grand scale and ambitious ideas deserve more depth. A richer exploration of Kanga’s backstory, his family dynamics, and a deeper dive into the power struggles among the five clans could have made this an even more compelling narrative.
Verdict
While Kanguva boasts innovative storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and a stellar lead performance from Suriya, it falls short of being the cinematic masterpiece it aims to be. Its moments of brilliance are at times overshadowed by underdeveloped characters and an overbearing soundscape.
Yet, it remains a testament to the South Indian film industry’s relentless pursuit of pushing creative boundaries. For audiences seeking an epic, Kanguva offers an engaging experience that is worth the ride—just brace for the volume.