Deccan Chronicle movie critic BVS Prakash provides a critical review of Yatra 2, highlighting the film’s portrayal of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and its political narrative.
Key Points:
- Introduction: Yatra 2, a much-anticipated biopic of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, attempts to depict the political struggles and challenges faced by the leader after the sudden death of his father, Y. S. Rajasekhar Reddy.
- Portrayal of Political Dynamics: The film exposes the Congress supremo Sonia Gandhi and other Delhi leaders who sought to undermine Jagan Mohan Reddy’s popularity and influence him after Y. S. Rajasekhar Reddy’s demise. The narrative focuses on Jagan’s determination to forge his political path and launch his party.
- Altered Names and Political Significance: The use of altered names for Sonia Gandhi and the Congress party may not align with the current political scenario, where the Congress is relatively irrelevant. The film sidelines real-life political opponents, such as N. Chandrababu Naidu, until the last part, diminishing the impact for party cadre.
- Director’s Approach: Director Mahi V Raghav, known for the heart-touching film ‘Yatra,’ possibly continues the style but dilutes scenes involving Mammootty and Jiva during padayatras. The film’s pacing is criticized for being slow, affecting audience engagement.
- Performance Evaluation: Malayalam superstar Mammootty impresses in his brief role as Y. S. Rajasekhar Reddy, providing a composed and restrained performance. Tamil actor Jiva, portraying Jagan Mohan Reddy, receives mixed reviews for his performance, seen as lacking depth and conviction.
- Background Score and Cast: Santhosh Narayan’s background score is acknowledged for its impact, while the supporting cast, including Susane Bernet as Sonia Gandhi, receives mixed feedback. The roles of Sachin Kandekar, Subalekha Sudhakar, and Mahesh Manjrekar are considered poorly etched, with limited salvaging moments.
- Director’s Honest Attempt: Director Mahi V Raghav is credited for an honest attempt at depicting real-life incidents and the trials faced by Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. However, the film lacks the emotional connection established in his earlier work ‘Yatra,’ and the slowed-paced narrative diminishes audience engagement.
Yatra 2’s attempt to portray the political journey of Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy receives mixed reviews, with criticism directed at altered names, pacing issues, and the film’s ability to capture emotional connectivity.
