In the vibrant world of Kannada cinema where legends and myths often mingle with reality, a new superhero story unfolds with “Bagheera,” directed by Dr. Suri. This film is an intriguing blend of traditional superhero tropes and cultural nuances, providing audiences with an action-packed narrative while simultaneously challenging the conventional storytelling found in mainstream Indian cinema.
The superhero saga kicks off with Inspector Vedanth, portrayed with prowess by Srii Murali, a gold medallist who finds himself stationed in the coastal city of Mangaluru. On his very first day, Vedanth, poised and principled, encounters an unsettling scene where young girls are harassed by street hooligans. While the typical expectation would be for Vedanth to engage in bravado-laden combat, the storyline takes a refreshing turn when the young girls are instead saved by the fearless female lead played by Rukmini Vasanth. This moment not only sets the tone for the film’s distinctive approach but also highlights the strength and importance of female characters in a traditionally male-dominated genre.
“Bagheera” daringly departs from formulaic commercial cinema by incorporating surprising story elements. Even though superhero films often tread predictable paths, Dr. Suri, having previously co-written for the “KGF” films and “Salaar: Part 1—Ceasefire,” skilfully keeps the audience engaged through inventive and justified twists. One of the more poignant surprises comes with Vedanth’s discovery of his father’s tainted legacy. Achyuth Kumar gives a compelling performance as Vedanth’s father, who candidly reveals his corrupt past, advising his son that moral compromises are necessary within the system. This revelation serves as a catalyst for Vedanth’s transformation into a superhero, prompting existential questions about justice and integrity, especially when one’s family is entwined in corruption.
Adopting the guise of Bagheera, a character reminiscent of Batman, Vedanth embarks on what seems to be an endless quest for justice. Sporting a black panther mask, he becomes the enigmatic vigilante waging war against entrenched criminal activities at the city’s port, such as extortion and the sand mafia. His formidable nemesis, Rana, played by Garuda Ram, is depicted with a menacing aura that transcends typical villainy. Ram’s portrayal is so potent that even his underlings prefer death to facing his wrath, underscoring the villain’s fearsome influence.
. Meanwhile, Prakash Raj plays the ever-watchful CBI officer, adding to the film’s tension with his clever pursuit of Bagheera.
Drawing inspiration from mythology, “Bagheera” positions its hero as a divine figure, an incarnation shared by many Indian superheroes. The townspeople see him as a deity-like savior, a narrative choice written by Prashanth Neel that hearkens back to the legendary “KGF” series. The grandiose portrayal of Bagheera as a “massy” hero injects a thrilling dynamism into the film.
Srii Murali effortlessly commands the screen with a chiseled physique and electrifying presence suited for roles endowed with boldness and bravery. Although his performance exudes strength, the film could have delved deeper into Bagheera’s vulnerability, offering a more nuanced performance similar to Murali’s earlier roles in “Chandra Chakori” and “Kanti.” A superhero story enriched with a profound emotional core might have further elevated “Bagheera” as a holistic cinematic experience.
While the film’s romantic angle falls short, with Rukmini’s character receiving limited development, it is her initial portrayal as an independent, courageous doctor that leaves a mark. Her chemistry with Vedanth lacks depth, and the film’s exploration of Vedanth’s complex relationship with his father is somewhat underwhelming. Despite these oversights, Dr. Suri’s creation succeeds as a stylish superhero drama thanks to the inventive fight choreography by Chethan D Souza, synchronized with Ajaneesh Loknath’s enthralling score, and a deftly interwoven narrative courtesy of editor Pranav Sri Prasad.
At its heart, “Bagheera” is about a young boy inspired by iconic figures like Superman, Batman, and Black Panther, who evolves into a hero willing to risk everything for justice and truth. Like its Western counterparts, this film mirrors several familiar superhero motifs. Yet, it marks a bold effort in Kannada cinema, transitioning seamlessly from script to screen. A new superhero is born, heralding the arrival of an innovative filmmaker in Dr. Suri. “Bagheera” invites audiences to witness this thrilling journey currently playing in theaters.
