Movie: Maa Oori Polimera 2
Rating: 2.5/5
Banner: Shree Krishna Creations
Cast: Satyam Rajesh, Kamakshi Bhaskarla, Getup Srinu, Baladitya, Chitram Seenu, Ravi Varma, Rakendu Mouli, Sahiti Dasari and others.
Music: Gyaani
DOP: Kushedar Ramesh Reddy
Editor: Sree Vara
Producer: Gowr Kriesna
Written and Directed by: Dr. Anil Vishwanath
Release Date: Nov 03, 2023
Many OTT movies gained popularity after the lockdown period. "Maa Oori Polimera" is one of them. A sequel has now been made, and it opted for theatrical release.
Let’s see its merits and demerits.
Story:
The film, which is set in Jastipalli village, discusses a nearby temple established by the Travancore royal dynasty. The temple is said to have secret chambers where gold and other valuables were seized many centuries ago via Nagabandhanam. Only Komraiah (Satyam Rajesh) can undo Nagabandhanam because he has been versed in the occult rites required.
However, he has vanished from his village. Jangaiah (Baladitya), his brother, and a police officer are looking for him. Jangaiah's friend (Getup Srinu) visits Sabarimala and encounters Komraiah.
What brings Komraiah to Kerala? Who is Kavitha that is with him? What is the true mystery?
Artistes’ Performances:
Satyam Rajesh's performance as Komraiah is good. He doesn't say much in the film, instead relying on his expressions.
Dr. Kamakshi Bhaskarla is apt as Lakshmi.
Getup Seenu is given a substantial character. Baladitya as Satyam Rajesh’s younger brother is okay.
Rakendumouli did his part well as the Cop. Had he maintained fitness, he would have looked more convincing in the uniform role. He has good timing and body language that bestows commendable screen presence.
But other actors show bad acting. All actors have failed to get the Telangana slang right.
Technical Excellence:
The film has rich production and technical values. The background score and sound mixing is quite effective. Cinematography complements the mood of the film. The dialogues however lack strength.
Highlights:
Couple of twists and turns
Production values
Climax
Drawback:
Too much of black magic
Scenes drag on
Analysis
"Maa Oori Polimera 2" is the sequel to the 2021 OTT film "Maa Oori Polimera." The first part focussed on black magic. The second part similarly discusses occult rituals, but this time it's about hidden treasures beneath temples. As consequently, "Polimera" becomes an adventure thriller in the vein of "Karthikeya 2" rather than an occult thriller.
The beginning sequences do not thrill as it attempts to connect the events of the first part to the current story, and it takes a long time to return to the present story. The repeated flashback stories weaken the tone as well. The film really becomes interesting when the flashback about Kavitha and Komraiah is revealed just before the interval.
The interval sequence piques the viewers’ curiosity in the story's second half. Before the climax, the film presents further twists and turns. So the second half appears to be better than the first. However, the director's attempt to turn it into a franchise confuses us even more about the climax. The director then leaves the story open for the third installment.
The ambiance and atmosphere of the plot are the film's main appealing elements. The major flaws are the absence of exciting moments and the lengthy narrative. The plot twists and turns appear little contrived.
Overall, "Maa Oori Polimara 2" has some engaging moments and keeps our attention with its twists and turns, but it ends up being more of an occult thriller. There aren't enough theatrical experience moments.
Bottom line: Engaging But Not Enticing
