HanuMan: A Superhero Saga Rooted in Mythology
Story: Set in the fictional village of Anjanadri, “HanuMan” follows the journey of Hanumanthu (Teja Sajja), a young man who gains supernatural abilities reminiscent of the mythological figure Hanuman. The plot thickens as Michael (Vinay Rai), whose childhood desire for superpowers is influenced by superhero films and cartoons, becomes the antagonist. Driven by ambition and greed, Michael is desperate to obtain the same abilities as Hanumanthu. This sets the stage for a classic battle of good versus evil, with the fate of Anjanadri hanging in the balance.
Review: Directed by Prasanth Varma, known for his innovative films like “Awe” and “Zombie Reddy,” “HanuMan” is a Telugu-language superhero film that intricately weaves elements of Indian mythology into a contemporary narrative. As part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, the film, released during Sankranti, stars Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, and Vinay Rai.
Prasanth Varma skillfully integrates familiar mythological elements with CGI, enhancing the protagonist’s supernatural presence in the village setting. The film delves into the rural dynamics of Anjanadri, including a love story and the challenges faced by villagers under oppressive practices.
Teja Sajja delivers a convincing performance as Hanumanthu, transforming from a mischievous thief into the savior of Anjanadri. This role is expected to propel him into a different league. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar shines as Anjamma, Hanumanthu’s elder sister, blending beauty and power in her portrayal. Amritha Aiyer adds balance to the mix as Meenakshi, a doctor and the daughter of a school teacher. The love angle between Hanumanthu and Meenakshi becomes an integral part of the plot. Vinay Rai plays the supervillain Michael convincingly, contributing significantly to the adventurous plot. The supporting cast, including Vennela Kishore, Samuthirakani, Getup Srinu, Satya, and Raj Deepak Shetty, adds depth and authenticity to the characters.
The film’s visual effects deserve special mention for enhancing the narrative without overwhelming it, creating a visually engaging experience. Dasaradhi Sivendra’s cinematography and Sai Babu Talari’s editing contribute significantly to the film’s appeal. The music by Anudeep Dev, Gowra Hari, and Krishna Saurabh complements the overall experience. However, the pacing, especially in the first half, could have been improved with a tighter edit and shorter runtime.
Overall, “HanuMan” stands out with its solid storytelling, impressive visuals, and strong performances, successfully merging elements of mythology with contemporary action to offer a unique viewing experience in Indian cinema.