Teja Sajja and Prashanth Varma have finally unleashed their superhero film, Hanu Man. While it may be considered a smaller film among the Sankranthi releases, don’t let that fool you. The pre-release sales have been exceptional, and it’s clear why. Hanu Man blends action with a devotional touch, creating a unique cinematic experience. The makers spared no expense when it came to the VFX work, resulting in stunning visuals that will leave you in awe. With Amritha as the leading lady and Niranjan Reddy as the producer, Hanu Man is poised for a clash with Mahesh Babu’s Guntur Kaaram in Telugu. But that’s not all—the film is also making waves with its record release in Hindi.

Now, let’s dive into the review of Hanu Man. The story follows the journey of Hanumanthu (Teja Sajja), a seemingly weak youngster leading a peaceful life in the region of Anjanadri. His sister Anjamma (Varalaxmi Sarathkumar), who loves him dearly, stays single for his sake. However, their peaceful existence is shattered by the oppressive rule of the Palegallu, a group known for their crimes against those who dare to speak out. But in a shocking twist of fate, Hanumanthu gains superpowers, leaving the entire village in awe.

Meanwhile, a criminal named Michael (Vijay Rai), who has harbored a desire for superpowers since childhood, when he killed his own parents, becomes aware of the power residing in Anjanadri. The clash between Hanumanthu and Michael, intertwined with the influence of Lord Hanuman, forms the crux of the story.

Hanu Man may follow a familiar template of a common man gaining superpowers, but what sets it apart is the incorporation of Lord Hanuman’s blessings. In a socio-fantasy film like this, logic takes a back seat, and the film becomes a devotional journey. The story begins by introducing Michael’s character, creating curiosity around the potential misuse of superpowers. It then transitions to Anjanadri, where the dominance of the Palegallu is explored. Once Hanumanthu acquires his powers, the pace of the film picks up, resulting in an exhilarating experience.

The film does not rely heavily on unnecessary drama, instead capitalizing on its stunning visualization. Kudos to Prashanth Varma for his impressive direction, particularly in showcasing the beauty of Anjanadri, complete with waterfalls and a magnificent Lord Hanuman idol. Hanumanthu’s heroic acts, powered by his newfound abilities, leave a lasting impression. The well-executed action sequences further elevate the film’s impact. And let’s not forget the highly impressive climax, showcasing Prashanth Varma’s exceptional visual sense. The risks involved in achieving the best output in terms of VFX and CG shots are handled skillfully, resulting in a satisfying viewing experience.

Samuthirakani’s portrayal of Vibhushanudu, narrating the greatness of Lord Hanuman, is a goosebumps-inducing moment. It is reminiscent of Anupam Kher’s memorable episode in Karthikeya 2. Satya also manages to entertain the audience at times. However, Hanu Man is not without its flaws. The question of why Lord Hanuman intervenes in the problems specific to Anjanadri remains unanswered, leaving some loose ends. Nevertheless, Prashanth Varma hints at a sequel titled Jai Hanuman, which promises to shed light on the connections to the Ramayana.

Now, let’s talk performances. Teja Sajja continues to impress with his transformative acting skills. There were doubts initially about his suitability for a superhero film, but Hanu Man proves that he made the right choice. The role is tailor-made for Teja, and he shines with his impressive look and performance. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar surprises with her well-designed role and action sequences. Vinay Rai, although stylish, could have been given a more substantial role. The remaining cast delivers decent performances, albeit overshadowed by the lead actors.

Technically, Hanu Man is a wow film. The visuals and background score breathe life into the narrative. The well-executed action sequences display the film’s technical prowess, and the music by Hari Gowra proves to be a turning point for the composer. Kudos to the producer, Niranjan Reddy, for having faith in Prashanth Varma’s vision and investing in a talented actor like Teja Sajja. Prashanth Varma’s direction brings his vision to life on the screen, captivating the audience.

Hanu Man is poised to impress the Telugu audience, and its success in the North Indian belt would be a significant boost. Overall, Hanu Man is an impressive film that makes for an excellent watch during the Sankranthi season.

Cinemirchi Rating: 3/5

Director: Prasanth Varma
Music: Anudeep Dev, Hari Gowra, and Krishna Saurabh
Cinematography: Dasaradhi Sivendra, Sumer Verma
Producers: Primeshow Entertainment,