Hanuman (2023) – A Modern Superhero Tale

Director: Prasanth Varma
Cast: Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, Vinay Rai
Writer: Prasanth Varma
Rating: 3.5/5

Hanuman, a film directed by Prasanth Varma, takes inspiration from one of the most beloved characters in Indian mythology, Hanuman. While superhero universes like MCU and DCU have explored the concept of superpowers, there was a notable absence of such narratives in Indian cinema until now. In 2024, Prasanth Varma attempted to fill this void by creating a superhero who derives his powers from Lord Hanuman. Does Hanu-Man live up to the expectations? Let’s delve into it.

Plot Synopsis: The story follows Hanumanthu (Teja Sajja), who discovers a mysterious stone that grants him superpowers bestowed by Lord Hanuman. Meanwhile, Michael (Vinay Rai), a lifelong fan of superheroes, becomes obsessed with acquiring the stone from Hanumanthu. The film explores the transformation of Hanumanthu into a superhero, as well as the evolution of Michael into a supervillain. What makes this stone so powerful? Does Michael succeed in his quest? These questions form the crux of Hanu-Man.

What Works: Director Prasanth Varma seizes the opportunity to introduce a new superhero with a unique origin story. The film's strength lies in its original content and the filmmaker's distinct storytelling style. Varma blends elements of drama, action, and comedy, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and engaging.

Visually, Hanu-Man is impressive, with Varma and his team delivering stunning visuals despite budget constraints. The film effectively merges superhero elements with mythology, adding depth to the story.

The film's highlights include the backstory of the villain, the introduction of Hanuman, and the sequences depicting the acquisition of superpowers. While the second half sees a slight dip in pace, the climax is riveting and ensures a memorable cinematic experience. The film sets the stage for a sequel, promising an exciting continuation of the story.

What Doesn’t Work: Hanu-Man could benefit from tighter editing, particularly in the initial build-up, which feels drawn out. The romantic subplot between the lead characters also detracts from the main narrative. Additionally, some VFX sequences could be improved, but given the film's modest budget, this is understandable.

Performances: The cast delivers commendable performances, with Teja Sajja, Amirtha Aiyer, and Varalaxmi Sarathkumar shining in their respective roles. Vinay Rai portrays the role of the antagonist with conviction, adding depth to his character.

Verdict: Hanu-Man is a refreshing addition to the superhero genre in Indian cinema. Director Prasanth Varma's ambition and conviction are evident throughout the film, making it a compelling watch. Despite its minor flaws, Hanu-Man entertains with its blend of drama, action, and mythology. It's a must-watch for audiences looking for a unique take on the superhero genre.