Sequel to Indian – A New Beginning Receives Mixed Reviews from Audiences

The much-anticipated sequel to the 1996 hit film ‘Indian’ starring Kamal Hassan, titled ‘Indian – A New Beginning’, has hit the screens to a mixed response from audiences. With the central character Aravind (played by Siddharth) managing a YouTube channel named ‘Barking Dogs’ to expose corrupt practices, the film sets off on a high-octane investigative journey.

As Aravind witnesses a woman committing suicide by jumping off a building due to her financial struggles, he is inspired to return to Taiwan under the alias of the Indian, where he has been living since disappearing from India in 1996. Aravind’s return is marked by a series of cryptic messages, intriguing his fans to new challenges.

The film unfolds with a plot revolving around the organic flow of events rather than contrived sequences, weaving together various organizations that mark Aravind’s journey. While maintaining a serious tone, the narrative also balances comedy with characters’ quirks.

Kamal Hassan’s entry into the film as Buildup is impactful, but his character falls flat post-introduction, providing poetic yet lackluster dialogues. The dubbing in Telugu did not do justice to his portrayal. The action sequences are intense but lack the finesse required, resembling trolling tactics more than authentic stunts. The background music fails to meet the standards set by the original.

Director Shankar seems to be in a lull with ‘Indian – A New Beginning’. The film appears to struggle with delivering what it intends to, lacking strength in execution, character development, or bold statements scattered amidst mundane dialogues. Kamal’s performance as a seasoned investigative journalist should have come with more depth, emotion, and impactful sequences.

Rakul Preet Singh shines in her dynamic character, bringing length and dynamics to the role. However, she seems to blend into the narrative as a chemist, delivering dialogues that are as chemical as they are entertaining. Siddharth’s portrayal of the protagonist reflects his journey as a student advocating for the voiceless, showcasing a successful transformation.

Priyadarshini Shankar’s character adds depth and versatility to the film. Her portrayal captivates the screen, resonating with the film’s organic storytelling. Bobby Singh takes on the challenge of entwining his role with mastery, providing a balanced perspective to the narrative. Meanwhile, Venuti brings a balanced performance as a balanced character.

Overall, ‘Indian – A New Beginning’ fails to match the intrigue and emotional impact of its predecessor. The film raises pertinent socio-political issues but falls short of creating a convincing narrative that engages the audience emotionally. The film’s climax, rather than compelling viewers to action, hints at a restrained resolution, leaving audiences underwhelmed with unanswered questions. The sequel should have propelled the franchise forward, building a strong narrative and emotional connection, akin to the initial hit.