The highly anticipated sequel to Lucifer (2019), L2: Empuraan, has finally hit the big screens, taking Malayalam cinema to new heights. Directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and featuring the legendary Mohanlal, the film promises an action-packed, politically charged narrative with international espionage elements. Does it live up to the hype? Let’s dive into the review.
Story
Picking up from where Lucifer left off, L2: Empuraan expands on the mysterious persona of Khureshi Ab’raam, the alter ego of Stephen Nedumpally. The film delves deeper into his rise in the international underworld, as he navigates political power struggles, global intelligence agencies, and hidden threats from within.
As the story unfolds, we witness Stephen’s evolution from a political strategist in Kerala to a feared and respected global power player. With MI6 and other international agencies closing in on his empire, the stakes are higher than ever. The movie seamlessly blends high-octane action sequences with intricate political drama, making for a gripping watch.
While Lucifer was rooted in Kerala’s political landscape, Empuraan expands its scope significantly, presenting a world of secret organizations, international deals, and power struggles that go beyond borders. The screenplay is packed with twists, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
Plus Points
1. Mohanlal’s Power-Packed Performance
Mohanlal once again proves why he is one of the finest actors in Indian cinema. His portrayal of Khureshi Ab’raam is intense, commanding, and layered. He effortlessly shifts between different shades of the character, maintaining the aura of mystery that made Lucifer so intriguing. His dialogue delivery and action sequences further add to the movie’s impact.
2. Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Direction
Prithviraj Sukumaran delivers a film that is both grand and engaging. His vision for Empuraan is larger-than-life, and he executes it with finesse. The way he blends action, politics, and drama while maintaining a gripping narrative is commendable. He takes the Lucifer universe to the next level with this sequel.
3. Stunning Action Sequences
One of the major highlights of Empuraan is its action choreography. The film boasts well-executed fight scenes, chase sequences, and high-tech combat, all of which are on par with Hollywood productions. The stunts are thrilling yet realistic, keeping viewers at the edge of their seats.
4. Gripping Screenplay and Twists
Murali Gopy’s screenplay is well-structured and layered with unexpected twists. The film continuously builds tension, with suspenseful moments that keep the audience guessing. The dialogues are sharp and powerful, adding depth to the storyline.
5. Cinematic Brilliance
From exotic locations to breathtaking cinematography, Empuraan is a visual spectacle. The film’s grandeur is beautifully captured with top-notch production design, making every frame visually appealing. The camera work, especially during action sequences, enhances the viewing experience.
Minus Points
1. Slow-Paced First Half
While the film picks up momentum later, the initial half feels a bit slow. The buildup, although necessary for setting the tone, might test the patience of viewers expecting immediate action.
2. Lengthy Runtime
At nearly three hours, Empuraan demands a significant time investment. Certain sequences could have been trimmed to maintain a more engaging pace.
3. Complex Narrative
The movie’s intricate plot, which interweaves multiple storylines, can be challenging for viewers who haven’t seen Lucifer. The political and intelligence aspects require close attention to fully grasp the depth of the narrative.
Technical Aspects
1. Cinematography
Sujith Vaassudev’s cinematography is breathtaking. Every frame is meticulously composed, adding a larger-than-life feel to the movie. The exotic international locations and high-tech action sequences are beautifully captured.
2. Editing
Akhilesh Mohan’s editing is slick but could have been sharper. A few scenes in the first half drag a bit, impacting the overall pacing of the film. However, the second half compensates with a fast-paced narrative.
3. Background Score and Music
Deepak Dev’s background score amplifies the intensity of the film. The music perfectly complements the mood, enhancing the suspense and action sequences. The theme music of Khureshi Ab’raam is particularly impactful.
4. Visual Effects
The VFX work is impressive, adding realism to the high-octane action sequences. The team has done an excellent job in ensuring that the CGI elements blend seamlessly with the live-action shots.
Verdict
L2: Empuraan is an ambitious, high-stakes political action thriller that successfully builds upon its predecessor. Mohanlal’s powerhouse performance, Prithviraj’s stellar direction, and the gripping screenplay make it a must-watch. While the slow-paced beginning and complex narrative may not appeal to everyone, the film delivers a compelling story with breathtaking visuals and action-packed sequences.
For fans of Lucifer, Empuraan is a satisfying sequel that expands the cinematic universe with grandeur. If you’re looking for an intense, well-crafted political action thriller, this film is definitely worth watching.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
