SALAAR: PART 1 - CEASEFIRE (2024)
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| Critic 321 |
Director: Prasanth Neel
Written by: Prasanth Neel
Produced by: Hombale Films
Casts: Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruti Haasan, Easwari Rao, Sriya Reddy, Jagapathi Babu, Tinnu Anand, Devaraj, Brahmaji, Bobby Simha, Ramachandra Raju, MS Chowdary, Ramana, Mime Gopi, John Vijay
Music: Ravi Basrur
Language: Telugu
Genre: Action
SYNOPSIS:
Set in the fictional dystopian city-state of Khansaar, the film follows the friendship between Deva (Prabhas), a tribesman, and Varadha (Prithviraj), the prince of Khansaar. When a coup d'état is planned by his father's ministers and his relatives, Varadha enlists Deva's help to become Khansaar's undisputed ruler.
REVIEW:
In the world of Prashanth Neel's "Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire," a dark and violent canvas unfolds, marked by the intricacies of Khansaar, a realm ruled by three tribes with elaborate customs and density. The director's commitment to upping the ante in tone and texture is evident, transitioning from generic ganglords to gold-producing land rulers in KGF, and now, reaching the zenith with Khansaar.
The film's first half, reminiscent of KGF sentiments, introduces viewers to a world of mother-son bonds and childhood friendships. The simplicity of scenes is organically built into grandeur, a signature move by the director. The build ups for me, works well to create much excitement needed for a solid midpoint.
Neel's adherence to a dark color palette, avoidance of typical dance numbers, and reliance on situational anthems elevate the film's drama. Exploring themes of power, loyalty, betrayal, and leadership rights, "Salaar" provides a compelling commentary on political machinations and personal allegiances.
However, the film encounters turbulence in the second half, delving into the complexities of Khansaar without adequate world-building in the first hour, resulting in an overwhelming rush of information that dilutes the emotional core. While engaging, the emotional connection with Prabhas' character falls short compared to the resonance achieved in KGF.
Prabhas, a man of few words, packs a punch with his dialogues and slick action sequences, catering to the delight of his ardent fans. The ensemble cast, including the commanding Jagapathi Babu and notable performances from Bobby Simha, Tinnu Anand, and Easwari Rao, contributes significantly to the film's depth. John Vijay disappoints with his over exaggerated acting in a very weirdly constructed role.
Shruti Haasan's character, despite serving as a catalyst, disappoints both in terms of performance and narrative scope. A slight trimming of the film's runtime could have offered a more streamlined experience. The action scenes, directed by Anbariv, vary in quality between the two halves, with the first half featuring somewhat dated and exaggerated sequences, while the second introduces more dynamic weapon-based stunts.
In its entirety, "Salaar: Part 1" stands as an ambitious effort, with Prabhas and Prithviraj working well together. While the film is somewhat exhausting by the time it reaches its finish mark with plenty twists being thrown, its immersive world and promise of a sequel to fill narrative gaps make it a watchable experience. Prashanth Neel's penchant for dark, detailed universes remains intact, setting the stage for the much-anticipated continuation of the Salaar saga in Salaar: Part 2 – Shouryaanga Parvam.
VERDICT:
Despite occasional pacing issues and narrative complexity, ‘Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire’ unfolds a dark and intricately detailed world in Khansaar, with Prashanth Neel's world building prowess and Prabhas' powerful presence, promising a compelling start to a new exciting franchise.
CELLULOID METER- 3/5:
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