Pushpa (Pushpa the rise)

 

The 2021 release of Allu Arjun's Pushpa: The Rise gained immense attention over the last few months, especially with the two songs featuring Rashmika Mandanna and Samantha Ruth circulating the social media sphere. Before viewing, the film's plot surrounding red-sandalwood smuggling had me expecting the typical hero-focused, action-packed masala movie with a saintly lead who, though his deeds are immoral, will somehow come out unscathed. Though it did fit the criteria, surprisingly enough, I found the formulaic script engaging and I was quite impressed with Allu Arjun's praiseworthy performance. Hence, it is given my ripe rating and available for viewing on Amazon Prime Video.

Although Fahadh Faasil makes a brief appearance towards the conclusion, his performance is quite commendable and in each of his films he manages to leave an impression. Likewise, Rashmika Mandanna is given a glamourous role in most scenes and while she looks beautiful, she brings her character to life in a very credible manner. Furthermore, Viveka's lyric writing for Samantha's song "Oo Solriya Oo Oo Solriya" is remarka

ble, particularly the final line which highlights the dual-morality of influential men.