MUMBAI: The thing with delayed projects is that the buzz usually dies down. Not when you have Pawan Kalyan at the front and center though, and more so, when you cast Bobby Deol opposite him as the prime antagonist. Longer the wait, greater the buzz, and that's exactly how Hari Hara Veera Mallu has finally arrived in theaters after years of development impediments. Does it live up to its herculean expectations though? The response is resoundingly in the affirmative.
Based on the 17th century, the eponymous Veera Mallu — essayed with all the superstar swag coupled with acting gravitas we're accustomed to from Pawan Kalyan — rides through the rustic terrains of ancient Kollur, outwitting its king in one of his early onscreen assignments to free Panchami — Nidhhi Agerwal as the archetyal damsel in distress. This is succeeded by more such exciting missions, finally pitting him against Aurangzeb — Bobby Deol, now a pro at playing gloriously, menacingly deviant men — to secure back the Koh-i-Noor diamond. Not all is what it seems though and Veera Mallu's eventual purpose is later revealed.
Along with Pawan Kalyan and Bobby Deol's terrific performances, the period piece benefits greatly from brilliant action choreography, including three riveting set pieces in the first half. The first half sees drama gaining necessary precedence over action, but a standout block toward the climax buckles you right back in. Intensifying the action further is the mesmerizing camerawork by Gnana Sekhar VS and Manoj Paramahamsa. If only we could say the same about the special effects (at least make the CGI look convincing if you're going to join the bandwagon of Indian films adamantly shunning any and all practical effects). Besides, that minor gripe, the film is mostly on point, with M. M. Keeravani's music also doing its job to infuse vigor to the narrative.
To sum it up, Hari Hara Veera Mallu is an ideal period piece that transports you to a bygone realm. on the big screen alongside being a treat for both Pawan Kalyan and Bobby Deol fans.
4.5/5 stars
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