'Bagheera' movie review: Srii Murali wins hearts as a sharp-witted superhero

N Vedanth (Srii Murali), fascinated by superheroes and driven by his mother’s idea of superheroes in society, grows up to be a police officer. When he is appointed to a top position in Mangaluru, he has to take on drug peddlers, rapists, and criminals. He hopes to clean up the mess and make the city a better place. However, reality sets in and circumstances force him to become a vigilante. He is seen as a corrupt police officer in the day and a vigilante who thrashes the bad guys at night. Bagheera sports a mask with a panther on it. That is how he gets his name (from The Jungle Book). He soon becomes a celebrated superhero.

The CBI is asked to find the masked vigilante. Then begins the chase. Prakash Raj plays a CBI officer determined to catch Bagheera. Will he be able to see what the people see in him?

Srii Murali with his jaw-dropping physique is restrained in his performance throughout the film. Rukmini Vasanth, who plays a doctor, is introduced as a strong woman, but her character is reduced to just romantic moments.

As the plot gathers pace after the interval, Bagheera becomes unstoppable. He ups his game to catch the most notorious criminal, Rana (Garuda Ram). A superbike, a unique shield inspired by a schoolboy's science experiment, and grenades that can bring buildings down are some of the weapons he deploys.

Directed by Dr Suri, the film has a few slow-motion sequences and cheesy dialogues. The violence and gore can get a little too much. Nevertheless, Bagheera is a well-made action drama with a gripping screenplay. Prashanth Neel’s ability to write a simple yet engrossing story is commendable.

The action sequences are choreographed well, with stunning camera work by A J Shetty. But the climax fight gets boring, and the final scenes seem unnecessary. Does a superhero adored by people need validation from a police officer?