Ponniyin Selvan: Part Two

Before reading this review, please ensure that you have read my review of PS1 and watched PS1. It is crucial to avoid spoilers in order to fully appreciate the plot twists in the movie.

In comparison to PS1, PS2 surpasses its predecessor in terms of quality. PS2 effectively resolves most of the confusion and doubt that arose from PS1. However, the writing falls short in several scenes, but the actors manage to make it captivating.

Certain details have been altered in the film. Readers may not appreciate the climax. Nonetheless, Mani Rathnam's direction is a masterclass in itself. The performances are on par with those in PS1, but viewers' expectations may not align after witnessing PS1. Vikram, Karthi, and Ravi deliver performances similar to PS1.

Aishwarya Rai, portraying both Nandini and Umai Rani, may have a greater impact as the latter. The character Kundavai may not meet our expectations, but Trisha's extraordinary acting in her limited screen time is noteworthy. We don't anticipate much from Jayaram, but he surprises us. The child/young characters are satisfactory, and the remaining cast is fine.

I must commend Mani Rathnam for giving faces to the characters in the book. Even if the film fails to impress you, it allows for a clearer and more accurate imagination of the Chola kingdom when reading the books.

Technically, everything is as good as in PS1, and the visual effects seem even better this time. The background music aptly complements the film's mood without overpowering it. I highly recommend watching it in theaters for the full experience.