Cast: Sriimurali, Ashika Ranganath, Jagapathi Babu, Chikkanna
Director: S Mahesh Kumar
Story: Two feuding lords are fighting over water and bloodshed. When one of their wives decides to take her kid away from the land to a safe place, he returns to the same battlefield, much to his mother's fury.
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Review: Sriimurali returns to the big screen thanks to Madhagaja. Following Ugramm, the actor has developed a devoted following that enjoys seeing him in gritty action films. Madhagaja is accompanied with the same set of expectations. This film has its share of action-packed moments, but it also has its share of heartfelt moments that set it apart from the others. Is the movie as good as it seems? It does, to a significant extent.
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When Surya, an orphan who grew up in Manikarnika Ghat, decides to make a living, he picks a path that is littered with violence and gore. This path leads him back to his homeland, where he must fight the same individuals that separated him from his family. In his house, he discovers love, affection, and more, prompting him to set new objectives and take on new responsibilities.
Madhagaja's screen time, which is just 132 minutes, is what stands out the most. This isn't always the case with commercial dramas, which have plenty of sequences with unnecessary build-ups and humour. While there is a loud entrance music, some laughter, and even a romance tune, they do not appear to be excessive or boring to watch. The discussions, particularly ones that lack the requisite punch, should have been a little better. The premise is predictable as well, but the treatment and rapid storytelling keep one interested. There isn't a single song that stands out.
Sriimurali is in terrific form, delivering exactly what one would expect from him following Ugramm. For Kannada lovers, Jagapathi Babu and Devayani are a new duo who impress. In fact, of the films that have so far been released, this appears to be Jagapathi's greatest part in Sandalwood. Ashika Ranganath gets minimal screen time, but she makes the most of it. Garuda Ram reprises his role as the terrifying Tandava.
Madhagaja is not a new concept, but the way the crew has implemented it makes it worthwhile to see if you enjoy commercial action entertainment.