SOODHU KAVVUM 2 MOVIE REVIEW
Cast: Shiva, Karunakaran, MS Bhaskar, Vagai Chandrasekhar, Radha Ravi, Yog Jappee, Harisha
Director: SJ Arjun
Rating: 3/5
Soodhu Kavvum 2 steps into the spotlight carrying the weight of its popular 2013 predecessor. The original film, known for its blend of dark humor and quirky characters, set a high bar, and this sequel attempts to navigate that legacy. While it doesn’t quite reach the same heights, Soodhu Kavvum 2 offers a viewing experience that has its moments and offers some entertainment. The film tries to function as a prequel, sequel, and standalone narrative, which can sometimes feel a bit disjointed but does allow for a broader exploration of the Soodhu Kavvum world.
The story focuses on Guru (Shiva), a kidnapping specialist operating prior to the events of the first film. The narrative attempts to draw connections between his story and Das, the lead from the original, as well as other familiar elements. The narrative also includes a subplot of political satire, showing a corrupt politician’s rise to power. Arumai Pragasam (Karunakaran)’s recurring kidnapping is central, connecting the film to its predecessor.
Shiva delivers a performance that leans into his established comedic style, and while it might not replicate Vijay Sethupathi’s memorable turn, it provides a different take on the central character’s chaos. Karunakaran also has some good moments, making good use of his ample screen time and does his best to add some humour. The film’s narrative structure can feel somewhat episodic, with characters getting themselves into and out of tricky situations. However, there are still some genuinely funny instances, especially within the kidnapping sequences. Guru’s alcohol-induced hallucinations are a quirky addition, but their potential remains largely untapped.
Musically, the film nods to the original score which brings back some familiarity, and while it’s not a carbon copy, it certainly echoes the original. The narrative mirrors the original in structure, which may feel like a callback for some or a lack of originality for others. The political satire, while present, doesn’t always land with the impact it perhaps intends.
Soodhu Kavvum 2 can be viewed as an attempt to recapture the essence of the first film while also trying to tread its own path. While it doesn’t completely succeed in every aspect, it still offers some laughs and a familiar quirky atmosphere for viewers who are fans of the original. It might not be a must-see, but it certainly provides some entertainment for those who go in with reasonable expectations. It’s a decent watch for those who want to revisit that world, but not with a lot of expectations.