Shivarajkumar plays a lawyer in 'Bhairathi Ranagal'.
Credit: Special Arrangement
Narthan's neo-noir action thriller Bhairathi Ranagal is a prequel to the 2017 blockbuster Mufti. Due to the overwhelming response Ranagal received, Narthan has crafted a backstory, delving into the events that shaped the character.
The film begins with a stark portrayal of Ronapur, which faces a crippling water crisis. Despite numerous pleas from Ranagal’s father to the authorities, the bureaucrats remain apathetic. Driven by frustration, a young Ranagal plants a bomb in a government office leading to 21 years of imprisonment.
Upon release, Ranagal returns to Ronapur, with a law degree earned during his incarceration. He sets up a law practice for the people of his village.
Ronapur has now changed. It has access to water and a steel plant owned by a powerful industrialist Parande (Rahul Bose). His monopoly is sustained through ruthless suppression of worker unions. As Ranagal takes up the workers’ case, conflict with Parande becomes inevitable.
The film begins at a leisurely pace, and gains momentum before the interval. The narrative establishes Ranagal’s story, setting the stage for his conflict with Parande. However, the movie lacks a single humorous scene to break the tension.
As Narthan prioritises character glorification and visual appeal, the narrative substance takes a backseat.
Shivarajkumar shines, conveying intensity and fury through his expressive eyes. He excels in action sequences, wielding a machete with unmatched flair. Rahul Bose fails to evoke the menacing presence required of a formidable antagonist. Chaya Singh and Rukmini Vasant get limited screen time.
Ravi Basrur’s music has resemblance to the ‘KGF’ movies’ compositions. Lyrics lack memorability.
Unlike Mufti, the prequel lacks the gripping drama and intensity to make it stand out.
While it fails to match the standards of the 2017-hit, Bhairathi Ranagal still delivers an entertaining experience, particularly for Shivarajkumar fans and action thriller enthusiasts.