Kannappa, the mythological magnum opus featuring Vishnu Manchu in the titular role, has finally graced the silver screen, and initial reviews are pouring in. The film, directed by Mukesh Kumar Singh, tells the tale of Kannappa, a tribal warrior and ardent devotee of Lord Shiva, and his transformation from a non-believer to the ultimate Shiva Bhakta. While the movie boasts a star-studded cast including Prabhas, Akshay Kumar, Mohanlal, and Kajal Aggarwal in cameo roles, Vishnu Manchu's performance is being hailed as a career-defining one.
Critics and audiences are particularly impressed by the film's emotionally charged climax. Many describe it as spine-chilling and tear-inducing, leaving a lasting impact. Trade analysts have noted that the final moments of the film are especially powerful for devotees of Lord Shiva. Some viewers have even compared the intensity of the climax to that of "Kantara," another film known for its powerful spiritual elements.
Vishnu Manchu's dedication to the project is evident, as he not only stars in the film but also penned the screenplay. "Kannappa" has been a decade-long dream for him, and he has poured his heart and soul into bringing this epic tale to life. His commitment to the role is visible, with many praising his acting and screen presence, especially in the second half of the movie.
The supporting cast also delivers commendable performances. Mohan Babu, as Mahadeva Shastri, and other actors contribute to the film's narrative depth. The cameo appearances by Prabhas as Rudra, Akshay Kumar as Lord Shiva, and Mohanlal as Kirata have added significant value to the film, though their screen time is limited. Kajal Aggarwal's portrayal of Goddess Parvati has been described as graceful and emotionally resonant. Notably, Prabhas and Mohanlal reportedly did not charge for their roles, accepting them out of respect for Mohan Babu.
While the film has garnered praise for its emotional depth and performances, some critics have pointed out a few drawbacks. Uneven VFX and pacing issues in the first half have been noted, with the narrative taking time to build momentum. Some reviews suggest that the film lacks action highs and emotional depth until the final act. However, the powerful climax and strong performances in the second half seem to have overshadowed these shortcomings for many viewers.
The film's music, composed by Stephen Devassy, and background score have also received positive mentions, adding to the overall emotional elevation of the movie. Cinematography by Sheldon Chau and editing by Anthony Gonsalvez contribute to the visual appeal of the film.
Overall, "Kannappa" appears to be a spiritually moving experience, particularly for devotees of Lord Shiva. Vishnu Manchu's stellar performance and the impactful cameos by Prabhas, Akshay Kumar, and Mohanlal have garnered significant attention. While the film may have some flaws, its emotional climax and the actors' performances make it a compelling watch for those who appreciate mythological cinema.
