'L2: Empuraan' Movie Review

'L2: Empuraan' is the sequel to the successful Malayalam film 'Lucifer', starring Mohanlal. The intriguing trailer generated considerable curiosity about the film. What is the story of 'Empuraan'? To what extent did the political backdrop in the film entertain the audience? Let’s find out.

Story: Director Prithviraj Sukumaran begins the story from where 'Lucifer' ended. After the death of PK Ramadas (Sachin Khedekar), Stephen Vattipalli (Mohanlal) skillfully handles the internal conflicts within the IUF party and appoints Jathin Ramadas (Tovino Thomas) as the Chief Minister, establishing him as the party’s successor before disappearing.

However, once Jathin gains power, he engages in numerous illegal activities, disregarding the party’s principles and governing recklessly. He then decides to leave the IUF party and form a new political outfit called IUFPK, announcing his alliance with Baba Bhajrang (Abhimanyu) for the upcoming elections. Jathin’s decision doesn’t sit well with his sister Priyadarshini (Manju Warrier) or the party's core members.

Now, did Stephen return to counter the political conspiracy and exploitation of natural resources happening in his state? How did he confront Baba Bhajrang's schemes? Who is Syed Masood (Prithviraj Sukumaran), and how did he support Stephen? The rest of the story unfolds these questions.

Analysis: While 'Lucifer' primarily focused on political maneuvers, 'L2: Empuraan' incorporates a drug mafia subplot alongside the political drama. However, the director appears to have struggled in developing the script effectively. Although technically superior with high production standards, the writing seems lacking.
The first half progresses slowly, feeling rather dull until Mohanlal’s character appears nearly an hour into the film. 

While some scenes featuring Mohanlal are engaging, the political drama lacks the intensity and excitement seen in 'Lucifer'. Most scenes feel poorly constructed and do not captivate the audience.Only the action sequences before the interval and the climax scenes manage to impress. If the scenes involving Stephen’s return to Kerala, his political strategies, and his efforts to save the party were developed more effectively, the film would have been more interesting. 

Political dramas thrive on strong, well-written scenes, but this film feels like a routine revenge drama with weak emotions and a lack of impactful drama.
The film’s ending also hints at a possible third part, but the conclusion of Part 2 feels unsatisfying.

Performances: Mohanlal, as Abraham Qureshi alias Stephen Vattipalli, appears dignified and stylish, conveying intensity through his expressions alone. His performance in action sequences is particularly enthusiastic. Prithviraj Sukumaran impresses as Syed Masood. Tovino Thomas, Kishore (Kannada actor), and Manju Warrier have limited scope but perform adequately within their roles. The cinematography and background music are commendable.

Despite having the emotion and political drama elements that made 'Lucifer' successful, 'L2: Empuraan' fails to blend them effectively. The director's high-standard presentation and Hollywood-style making do not compensate for the lack of meticulous writing and scene development, resulting in an average film. While the stylish making and action scenes might appeal to some, the film is unlikely to impress regular cinema audiences.