Review: Jailer 2 : Cine Observer

Film: Jailer 2
Director: Nelson Dilipkumar
Cast: Rajinikanth, S J Suryah, Vidya Balan, Namo Narayanan, Yogi Babu, Shiva Rajkumar, Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, Mithun Chakroborthy, Hrithik Roshan, Ramya Krishnan and others
Music: Anirudh
Cinematography:Vijay Kartik Kannan
Editor: R.Nirmal
Action: Chethan D’Souza
Rating: 4 stars

Jailer 2 is an intelligent, engaging entertainer that feels refreshingly fresh. In fact, this could easily be the best Rajinikanth film in the last five years! The Superstar proves that he hasn’t lost his charm, charisma, or screen presence one bit. He delivers an outstanding performance, reminding us once again why watching him on screen remains such a special experience.

A special word of praise for Nelson’s writing, which is clever, crisp, and clear. What makes his storytelling particularly impressive is the way he uses humour not merely to entertain but also to make significant points about the story and the society we live in.

Consider the scene in which Yogi Babu, caught stealing an antique statue, is made to sit on the sidewalk. When a character looks towards Rajinikanth, Namo Narayanan as Moorthy quips, “Why are you looking there, when Ambani is sitting here?”, pointing towards Yogi Babu’s character, the thief. It is a wonderfully cheeky line that works as comedy while also inviting us to reflect on the happenings in present-day society. This is Nelson at his sharpest: making a point without sacrificing entertainment.

The film is further strengthened by a brilliant ensemble of supporting actors who add depth, intensity, and flavour to the plot. Suraj Venjaramoodu as Dilip, Vidya Balan as Kaantha, S. J. Suryah as Kalpaaks, and Namo Narayanan as Moorthy are all fantastic. Each brings something distinctive to the table, elevating the narrative beyond its central star attraction. Vidya Balan and S. J. Suryah, in particular, make for a compelling combination.

And then there are the cameos! Superstars Shiva Rajkumar, Mohanlal, Jackie Shroff, and Hrithik Roshan all make their presence felt, impressing in the limited screen time they receive. Their appearances add to the film’s star power and excitement without taking away from Rajinikanth’s central role.

Anirudh’s music is apt and exceptional, complementing the film’s mood and enhancing its entertainment quotient. However, despite its merits, the soundtrack doesn’t quite match the extraordinary musical impact of the first Jailer. That remains one area where the sequel falls a little short.

Ultimately, Jailer 2 succeeds because it offers more than just Superstar moments. It combines intelligent writing, purposeful humour, strong supporting performances, and high-octane entertainment. Nelson deserves considerable credit for trusting his writing and using comedy to say something meaningful about life and society.

Verdict: Rajinikanth’s charisma remains undiminished, Nelson’s writing is refreshingly sharp, and the supporting cast is terrific. An intelligent, entertaining, and thoroughly enjoyable film that could well be the Superstar’s best in five years!