Bhimaa review: Gopichand looks incorrigible in this outdated, cringe comedy

Actor Gopichand is long overdue for a hit. His latest flick at the box office, Bhimaa, is an action-packed entertainer with supernatural elements.

Directed by filmmaker A Harsha, the film stars Malvika Sharma and Priya Bhavani Shankar in crucial roles.

Synopsis

Bhimaa (Gopichand) is a playful, funny, and friendly cop who has a unique style while dealing with criminals.

Bhavani (Mukesh Tiwari) finds him to be a constant thorn in his side as he wields control over Mahendragiri.

Meanwhile, Bhimaa falls for Vidya (Malvika Sharma), a school teacher who deeply admires Ravindra Varma (Nassar)-known for healing people with medicinal herbs.

Ravindra Varma’s request turns Bhimaa’s life upside down.

As Bhavani tries evading Bhimaa’s vengeance, the story takes unexpected turns. To know the answers, one must watch the film.

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Analysis

Bhimaa marks a significant shift from how Gopichand has been portrayed in recent films. He is depicted as a robust cop with playful charm. His energetic performance and macho appearance add appeal to the film.

The movie begins with an intriguing story with Parasuramuni Kshetram. It details the origins of the sacred place, lasting about 15 minutes.

It faces a serious problem serving what audiences want from Gopichand’s story. The protagonist’s tone fluctuates between comedy and seriousness, making it hard for audiences to take him seriously.

While some comedy is acceptable, the excessive humour undermines the gravity of the drama.

The track involving the heroine further weakens the hero’s characterisation.

However, a few action scenes are engaging, especially in the pre-interval sequences. The revelation about the oil tanker sets up anticipation for the second half.

The latter half begins with a new setting and a clearer understanding of the story. It addresses the disjointed editing of the first half.

However, as the plot unfolds, the story becomes predictably linear.

The focus remains on a single crucial relationship between the main characters, with the introduction of fantasy elements.

Bhimaa blends various clichés of commercial masala cinema, resulting in an overcooked drama.

While certain elements may appeal to mass movie enthusiasts who judiciously watch films with good expectations, the climax feels predictable and lacks freshness.

Overall, Bhimaa follows a routine formula of mass films, albeit with a slight twist.

The action scenes are effective but are overshadowed by outdated drama and cringe-worthy comedy.

Finally, Bhimaa is not for serious film for moviegoers but caters to hardcore fans of mass cinema.

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Performances

Gopichand looks incorrigible. He should have at least taken care of his styling.

Apart from a few action sequences, he looks aged for even an inspector role.

Senior actors, including Naresh, Nassar, Vennela Kishore, Chammak Chandra, Sapthagiri, Mukesh Tiwari, and Poorna feature in minor roles.

While Vennela Kishore initially makes an impact, he gradually fades into the background.

The remaining actors have significantly less screen time in comparison.

Ravi Basrur, known for his work in KGF, handles the music and background score for the film. The background score is passable.

The cinematography receives praise, but the editing is inconsistent. The first half, in particular, lacks punch, with certain scenes feeling disjointed.

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Punchline

In summary, Bhimaa adheres closely to the conventions of a typical mass film, albeit with a minor deviation.

While the action sequences are whistle-worthy, the drama is overshadowed by an outdated screenplay. The cringe comedy tests your patience.

(Views expressed here are personal.)