Director Sukumar builds a brilliant legend-making narrative for Pushpa – he is not a ‘flower’, he is a ‘wildfire’ – and the sequel Pushpa: The Rule’s first half rides on that appeal

Pushpa, now at the head of the red sandalwood smuggling empire, has multiple adversaries to deal with; the most prominent being SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat (Fahadh Faasil). Shekhawat, still nursing the wounds of his humiliation, has infiltrated the ‘syndicate’ with no actual plan in sight. Pushpa never shies away from admitting that almost all the senseless violence in the film could have been avoided if not for male ego and, more often than not, it’s the women in the film who pay the price. While this look into action and consequence in a patriarchal world isn’t too far off from reality, the film doesn’t balance it out well. The trope of subjecting women to sexual violence to make a half-baked point about consent and a misplaced argument about ‘honour’ just to give the ‘hero’ a chance to rage is as old as it is frustrating. On the other hand, it’s refreshing to see a pan-Indian movie hero be a ‘wife guy’ – Pushpa’s philosophy is simple, “She’s my wife. I will listen to her.” And while this sets up Pushpa and Srivalli’s (Rashmika Mandanna) married life well, they still very much exist in the same societal confines they aim to challenge.

FAQs

1. What is the main theme of Pushpa: The Rule?

The main theme of Pushpa: The Rule revolves around power struggles, ego, and the consequences of violence in a patriarchal society.

2. Who are the main characters in the movie?

The main characters in Pushpa: The Rule include Pushpa, SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, and Srivalli.

3. What is Pushpa’s approach towards his wife, Srivalli?

Pushpa’s approach towards his wife, Srivalli, is one of respect and listening to her opinions, setting him apart as a ‘wife guy’ in the pan-Indian movie scene.

4. How does the movie address the issue of consent?

The movie addresses the issue of consent through the portrayal of sexual violence and the consequences of male ego, highlighting the importance of respecting boundaries.

5. What is the significance of the red sandalwood smuggling empire in the film?

The red sandalwood smuggling empire serves as a backdrop for the power struggles and conflicts among the characters, driving the narrative forward.

6. How does Pushpa deal with his adversaries in the movie?

Pushpa deals with his adversaries, including SP Bhanwar Singh Shekhawat, through strategic moves and confrontations, showcasing his fierce determination.

7. What societal confines do Pushpa and Srivalli aim to challenge?

Pushpa and Srivalli aim to challenge societal norms surrounding gender roles and expectations, advocating for mutual respect and understanding in their relationship.

8. What is the overall tone of the film?

The overall tone of Pushpa: The Rule is intense and action-packed, with themes of power, revenge, and redemption driving the narrative forward.

9. How does the film address the issue of honor?

The film addresses the issue of honor through the characters’ actions and decisions, highlighting the complexities of morality and ethics in a world driven by power.

10. What sets Pushpa apart from other movie heroes?

Pushpa stands out as a unique movie hero due to his ‘wife guy’ philosophy, prioritizing his wife’s opinions and respecting her agency in a male-dominated narrative.