BANGALORE: While Telugu film Dookudu set the box office on fire all over the world, expectations about its remake in Kannada, as Power***, were high. And it seems it has far exceeded all expectations; the film remains true to the original.
In this powerful, lightning-paced film, Puneeth Rajkumar essays the role of Bharath, a police officer chasing Nayak (Kelly Dorje), a don, when he accidentally meets Prashanti (Trisha) in Spain. Back in Bangalore, Bharath, who had assumed his father Krishna Prasad (Prabhu) was dead, realises he is alive.
His father wants him to become a politician, and to fulfil this wish, Bharath creates a dummy political set-up at his ancestral house. To make it look real, he comes up with a reality show. To convince his father, Bharath also marries Prashanti. He uses the show to expose corrupt politicians and also learns about the people behind Krishna Prasad’s accident, and retaliates.
These adventures lead to Bharath’s father knowing the truth. What is his father’s reaction when he comes to know that Bharath is not a politician but a police officer? That forms the rest of the plot.
Power*** is predictable but magnificent in its making. Director Madesh shines with this remake, though the plot is a simple revenge drama. There is energy in the visual style. The stunts, creative costume designs and the detailed characterisation add up to make the film outstanding.
Puneeth shines with his stylish dance moves and stunts. The film showcases his versatility and he entertains with a power-packed performance. Trisha, in her debut in Kannada, justifies her glam role.
A worthy remake, Power *** adds, among other things, a delightful twist to the ending, with some great performances from a strong cast, the highlight being Tamil actor Prabhu.
Verdict: A fascinating film with an outstanding musical score by S S Thaman. Lot of action punctuated with great dialogues and garnished with comic roles by Sadhu Kokila and Rangayana Raghu. The film is a treat for Puneeth fans.