In an exhilarating blend of action and unexpected turns, ‘Bagheera,’ the latest superhero film from Kannada cinema, offers a refreshing take on the traditional formulas of the genre. Set in the bustling city of Mangaluru, the film opens with Inspector Vedanth, played by Srii Murali, arriving for his new duty post. As a gold medallist with impeccable records, his presence promises a shift in the city’s fight against crime. However, right from his first day, Vedanth witnesses a scene all too familiar on the streets – young girls being harassed by local rogues. The audience might brace themselves for a traditional brawny showdown led by the protagonist, but the film subverts this expectation. Instead, it’s the brave female lead, played by Rukmini Vasanth, who steps in to save the day, providing a fresh narrative interjection.
‘Bagheera’ thrives on such surprises, cleverly deviating from the commercial cinema norm. Each unexpected turn and subversion serves to deepen the audience’s engagement. Co-writer Dr. Suri, known for his work on the acclaimed films ‘KGF’ and ‘Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire,’ constructs a story where predictability in superhero cinema is transformed into an opportunity to illuminate the genre’s potential. By delivering inventive storytelling within expected frameworks, ‘Bagheera’ rises as a testament to what imaginative execution can achieve.
The film continues to stun its audience when the virtually incorruptible Vedanth learns a hard truth from his father, portrayed by Achyuth Kumar. His father, once Vedanth’s paragon of integrity, confesses his involvement in corruption with the pragmatic advice, “If you want to stay in the system, learn to compromise on your morals.” This revelation is a bitter pill for Vedanth, catalyzing his transformation into a superhero. Donning the mask of a black panther, Bagheera emerges, drawing inspiration from the likes of Batman. Just as Batman wages an incessant battle for justice in Gotham, Bagheera steps up to thwart Mangaluru’s crime elements, including extortion, the sand mafia, and more localized atrocities.
The character of Rana, the film’s formidable antagonist played by Garuda Ram, poses the primary threat to Bagheera. Garuda Ram’s portrayal brings an intimidating presence to the screen, effectively overshadowing typical villainous caricatures. The script wisely chooses to emphasize his terrifying influence rather than mere malevolent traits.
. Such is Rana’s fearsome reputation that subordinates prefer self-inflicted harm over capture. Prakash Raj adds yet another layer of intrigue as a calculating CBI officer determined to unmask Bagheera, keeping viewers on edge throughout the narrative.
Parallels with Indian mythology are skillfully woven into the fabric of the film, with Bagheera being revered as a godlike figure among the helpless. Written by Prashanth Neel, the film intricately crafts a hero revered as divine amidst the human populace, resonating with the iconography seen in the ‘KGF’ series. This “larger-than-life” hero resonates well in the story’s universe, offering an enjoyable spectacle.
Srii Murali embodies the role with commanding presence and physicality. However, the actor’s known versatility from his past roles in ‘Chandra Chakori’ and ‘Kanti’ calls for Bagheera to be portrayed with more vulnerability, an aspect that could have allowed for a richer exploitation of Murali’s range. While Murali excels in the daredevilry typically expected of a superhero, an emotional core to his journey would have provided welcome depth to his character.
Rukmini Vasanth’s character, a strong-willed doctor, admires Vedanth for his fearlessness and integrity. However, the romantic subplot feels underdeveloped, lacking the intensity needed to convey authenticity, a missed opportunity in furthering character dynamics. Additionally, the complexity of Vedanth’s relationship with his father leaves the audience craving more exploration.
Despite these narrative blips, ‘Bagheera’ triumphs as a suave superhero saga. The action sequences choreographed by Chethan D Souza are visually impressive, seamlessly merging with Ajaneesh Loknath’s captivating score. The editing by Pranav Sri Prasad deserves acknowledgment for its ability to maintain narrative tension through meticulously interwoven scenes.
Ultimately, ‘Bagheera’ introduces a thrilling addition to Indian superhero cinema, adeptly managing to transfer its compelling plot from script to screen under Dr. Suri’s direction. As this new superhero saga unfolds in Kannada cinema, it simultaneously signals the announcement of a visionary filmmaker. ‘Bagheera’ is currently gracing theatres, inviting audiences to experience its unique narrative first-hand.
