Ponniyin Selvan 2 returns with a bang. The focus now shifts to the tragic love story between Prince Aaditha Karikalan Vikram) and Nandhini (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan). The second part of the series commences with an intro that skillfully captures the youthful romance shared between these two characters. A clever visual storytelling has taken the centre stage over heavy dialogue. The director masterfully illustrates the gradual blooming of affection between a royal prince and an orphaned girl. The poignant depiction of their love and the heart-wrenching sorrow is caused by their separation and enforced by circumstances beyond their influence. It remains at the forefront of this sequel.
The Legacy of Ponniyin Selvan
It hit the theaters on 28th April. The movie showcases prominent actors, including Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Chiyaan Vikram, Karthi, Jayam Ravi, Trisha Krishnan, Shobhita Dhulipala. Not to mention, it has other pivotal figures. Following the resounding triumph of the first installment, anticipation soared for this sequel. It has generated respectable box office figures. But the overall performance is lackluster compared to the impressive numbers achieved by Ponniyin Selvan 1.
Originally published in the 1950s and 1960s, this five-volume novel set in the Chola dynasty has become a literary classic. Its blend of historical accuracy, intriguing characters, and intricate plotlines captivated the readers. Kalki Krishnamurthy’s storytelling prowess paints a vivid picture of the political intrigues. it also tells cultural nuances and societal dynamics of the Chola era. The original work left readers yearning for more, leading to the much-anticipated “Ponniyin Selvan 2.”
The Ponniyin Selvan 2 Collection
Till 31st August 2023, Ponniyin Selvan 2 collection has amassed a net total of 173 crore rupees within India. The overseas market has garnered an additional 121 crores in gross revenue. Overall, the global accumulation stands at an impressive 325.14 crores in gross earnings. However, at its current rate, the film could face challenges in reaching the coveted 350 crore milestone.
Ponniyin Selvan 1 achieved a remarkable gross revenue of more than 480 crores. Compared to this, the performance of Ponniyin Selvan 2 falls short of expectations.
Ponniyin Selvan 2 Release Date
This movie has already been released. Ponniyin Selvan 2 release date was the 28th of April, 2023, across the globe, gracing screens in various formats, including standard, IMAX, 4DX, and EPIQ. Notably, it is the inaugural South Indian film to be released in the immersive 4DX format.
The cast
With the intricate tapestry of diverse characters woven in the initial film, Ratnam, along with co-writers Jeyamohan and Kumaravel, delves deeper into the realm of drama this time around. The pacing adopts a more deliberate rhythm, focusing significantly on the repercussions of uncontainable impulses and aspirations that defy their intended fate. Luminaries like Vikram, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Karthi shine as exceptional performers among the expansive cast.
The Plot
In the conclusion of Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1, Mani Ratnam placed us in a dire situation deep within the ocean’s depths. Chola prince Arulmozhi Varman (played by Jayam Ravi) and his devoted companion Vandiyathevan (Karthi) faced impending death orchestrated by Pandya assassins. Their salvation came unexpectedly from a mute woman bearing an uncanny resemblance to the Chola courtier Nandini (Aishwarya Rai Bachchan), a resemblance that held more significance than mere chance.
Ponniyin Selvan Part 2 is a rare sequel that lives up to the immense expectations set by its forerunner. This Tamil cinematic creation, adapted from Kalki Krishnamurty’s timeless historical fiction novel, transcends linguistic boundaries by being dubbed into multiple languages, including Hindi.
The sequel commences with a youthful Nandini (Sara Arjun) emerging from a pool. Sensuality, one of Ratnam’s distinctive strengths and a prominent allure of this captivating sequel imbues the ill-fated love story between Nandini and the young Aditha Karikalan (Santosh Sreeram). The narrative unfolds with minimal dialogue, relying instead on the emotive power of one of AR Rahman’s soulful melodies to convey the essence of their thwarted affection.
In the tenth-century Chola kingdom governed by Sundara Cholan (Prakash Raj), a conspiracy seeks to depose his dynasty, spearheaded by Nandini’s present spouse, Periya Pazhuvettayar (R Sarathkumar). Collaborating with the Pandya rebels, led by Ravidasa (Kishore), Nandini seeks retribution for what she perceives as Aditha’s betrayal.
Periya Pazhuvettayar aspires to position Sundara Cholan’s cousin Madhurantaka (Rahman) on the throne. Among the key figures are Sundara Cholan’s daughter Kundavai (Trisha) and her siblings Arulmozhi and Aditha, boatwoman Poonkuzhali (Aishwarya Lekshmi) and Vandiyathevan, the priest Thirumalai (Jayaram).
More about the movie
AR Rahman’s musical compositions and background score serve as the sonic backdrop for sequences that captivate visually through their inherent splendor, devoid of ostentation. The dichotomous aspects of the source material translate into emotions that possess grandeur and a genuine human essence. As Ratnam guides events towards their conclusion, like the drawing of a luminous curtain, every shot serves a purpose, and every line resonates seamlessly.
Ratnam’s treatment of Krishnamurthy’s novel exhibits profound respect and a family-friendly demeanor. This ensures that the films maintain a surface-level narrative without delving too deeply into underlying implications.
The enchantment persists from the commencement of the 164-minute film until its denouement. Ratnam’s masterful filmmaking leaves us in awe and offers a partial glimpse into the souls of profoundly imperfect individuals.
Ratnam’s mastery over a densely layered plot, ample enough for several films, seems astonishingly effortless. The veteran director seamlessly transitions between scenes of battlefield strife and verbal duels. It employed expansive shots to highlight Thota Tharrani’s grand production design. At the same time, intimate close-ups allow each major and minor character to leave an indelible mark. Cinematographer Ravi Varman’s fluid camera movements and editor Sreekar Prasad’s unobtrusive editing mirror ensured the gentle flow of the Ponni River. It inspired both the literary source and the cinematic adaptation.
Conclusion
In literature, specific works transcend time, captivating generation after generation with their timeless appeal. “Ponniyin Selvan” is undeniably one of those works, and the anticipation surrounding its sequel is a testament to its enduring impact. The cinematic experience of “Ponniyin Selvan 2” has certainly taken the audience with a storm. It’s more than just an average movie release—a continuation of a journey, an exploration of a rich historical period, and a celebration of the power of storytelling.
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