Director Prasanth Varma, known for his penchant for experimenting with diverse genres, introduces the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) with his latest offering, “HanuMan.” Starring Teja Sajja, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Amritha Aiyer, and Vinay Rai, this Sankranthi underdog promises to be more than just a conventional superhero origin story.
The film revolves around Hanumanthu (Teja), a small-time thief in the idyllic village of Anjanadri. The story takes a turn when he discovers a totem that grants him extraordinary powers, attracting the attention of Michael (Vijay) and his friend Siri (Vennela Kishore). As events unfold, Anjanadri faces peril, and Hanumanthu must rise to the occasion.
“HanuMan” successfully weaves a narrative that, on paper, might seem like a typical superhero origin story but manages to captivate the audience with its unique approach. The film takes its time to build the story, introducing hilarious moments and endearing characters, including a monkey named Koti and cameo appearances by Sunishith and Rakesh Master.
The movie truly shines when exploring the dynamics of an underdog realizing his strength, echoing the essence of Lord Hanuman’s journey. The heartfelt relationship between Hanumanthu and his sister, portrayed by Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, adds depth to the narrative, offering whistle-worthy moments.
While “HanuMan” excels in establishing the universe of Anjanadri, it encounters some stumbling blocks. The film diverts into a love story and introduces another villain, both of which feel underdeveloped and distract from the compelling antagonist, Michael. Additionally, despite impressive VFX work in Anjanadri, certain key moments, including an emotional sequence and the climax, fall short due to noticeable CGI limitations.
Prasanth Varma’s vision for the PVCU is commendable, drawing viewers into a universe filled with intrigue and cultural richness. Anudeep Dev, Gowra Hari, and Krishna Saurabh contribute to the immersive experience with a fitting musical backdrop, complemented by Dasaradhi Sivendra’s cinematography.
In conclusion, “HanuMan” is a refreshing addition to Telugu cinema’s superhero genre, breaking free from the conventional narrative. While it stumbles in certain aspects, the film successfully introduces the PVCU, leaving audiences eager for more adventures in Anjanadri.
