Karthikeya 2 review: An engaging adventure drama like its 2014 prequel

In 2014, Karthikeya caught cinema-lovers by surprise with its refreshing plot, gripping narrative, fine performances and a good dose of comedy-romance.

Chandoo Mondeti, who debuted as a director with this mystery thriller, shot to fame for his commendable work. The film also placed hero Nikhil Siddharth in the limelight.

After eight long years, the team has come together for a sequel, which has an entirely different story though.

Featuring Nikhil, Anupama Parameswaran and Anupam Kher in the lead roles, Karthikeya 2 was released worldwide on Saturday, 13 August, and is already receiving positive responses from both audiences and critics.

In the latest edition, the story revolves around Lord Krishna, Dwaraka and Kaliyuga.

Watched #Karthikeya2 last night. Loved it. I have an interesting cameo in it. Film releases In theatres today ?
Time to immerse in the world of our Indian Culture!??#KrishnaIsTruth @actor_Nikhil @anupamahere @chandoomondeti @peoplemediafcy @AAArtsOfficial @MayankOfficl pic.twitter.com/sL2i3RxqzC

— Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) August 13, 2022

Karthikeya (Nikhil Siddhartha) is a doctor, science freak, and an atheist. Unlike him, his mother (Tulasi) is orthodox and is totally into idol worship, religious ceremonies and pilgrimages.

Owing to certain circumstances, the mother-son duo visits Dwaraka where Karthikeya encounters a series of inexplicable events. Consequently, he goes on an adventure to find answers to the mysteries staring him in the face.

It is during this quest that he survives many attacks and gets chased by cops. How he manages to save himself, Indian culture and humanity against all the odds is something that will win your hearts.

Amazing music, VFX and cinematography

Chandoo Mondeti’s Karthikeya 2 is packed with eclectic events, riveting narration, stunning visual effects and thrilling moments.

Kaala Bhairava’s music and background score are one of the assets of the movie. In fact, the background score takes the film to a different level.

The visual effects or VFX in the film are top-notch. They are highly believable and look pretty realistic. They complement the narrative by keeping the viewers hooked till the end.

Cinematographer Karthik Ghattamaneni debuted as an editor in this film. He did an admirable job in both roles.

Fine performances complement the script

It’s been a long time since Nikhil was seen on the silver screen. This time, he’s back with a well-written script that takes you on an exhilarating ride, as promised. He has improved as an actor.

Anupama Parameswaran plays Mugdha who helps Karthikeya decode the mysteries during his adventurous journey. She executes the role effortlessly.

Srinivas Reddy as a wanderer and Harsha Chemudu as a truck driver fit well in their roles. Their situational humour in the second half is a plus point.

Anupam Kher appears in a special role to describe Lord Krishna’s glory in a rousing scene, although the language appears to have been borrowed from a WhatsApp forward!

Karthikeya 2 uses the motif of showing India as a leader of ultimate wisdom. So far, so good.

But the plot looks somewhat lazy on a couple of occasions, considering that a material thing has been shown as the “container of all wisdom”. It appears fantastic but isn’t novel or durable.

On the whole, Karthikeya 2 is an engaging adventure drama that has some amazing visuals laced with a riveting narration. It’s worth all your time and attention this weekend.