Empuraan: A Sequel that Shines Visually but Stumbles in Storytelling

Introduction: The High Expectations of a Sequel

Creating a sequel for a critically acclaimed film is never easy, especially when the original’s success was largely driven by its intricate storytelling, compelling characters, and technical brilliance. Empuraan, the much-awaited follow-up to Lucifer (2019), directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, steps into this challenging territory.

While the film undoubtedly delivers on grandeur and visual spectacle, it struggles to retain the emotional weight and narrative depth that made Lucifer a standout. The film leans heavily on its visuals and larger-than-life action sequences but offers little in terms of meaningful character arcs and emotional resonance.

The Power Players: Cast and Crew

Empuraan boasts a star-studded cast and an acclaimed technical team, whose contributions shape the film’s cinematic appeal.

Plot Overview: Corruption, Power, and Redemption

Empuraan picks up the story five years after the events of Lucifer. Following Stephen Nedumpally’s (Mohanlal) departure from Kerala, the political landscape drastically changes.

Jathin Ramdas’ Rise and Fall

After inheriting the political throne, Jathin Ramdas (Tovino Thomas) becomes Kerala’s Chief Minister. However, his reign gradually becomes tainted by greed and corruption. In a bid to protect his image, Jathin forges an alliance with the far-right Akhanda Shakti Morcha (ASM), led by Balraj Patel (Abhimanyu Singh). This decision opens Kerala’s doors to communal politics, plunging the state into turmoil.

The Return of Lucifer

As Kerala struggles under the weight of political greed, Stephen—now living under the alias Khureshi Ab’raam—receives news of the state’s decline. Reluctant at first, he is eventually drawn back into the fight. His return signifies the arrival of a powerful force that can challenge the corrupt system.

Zayed Masood’s Backstory

A significant portion of the film is dedicated to Zayed Masood’s (Prithviraj Sukumaran) tragic past. Orphaned during the 2002 Gujarat pogrom, Zayed’s backstory adds emotional weight, highlighting his motivations and unwavering loyalty to Stephen.

The Strengths: Visual Mastery and Performances

Cinematic Brilliance

Prithviraj Sukumaran, as both director and actor, elevates Empuraan with his visual mastery.

• Cinematography: Sujith Vaassudev’s lens captures the film’s expansive scale with finesse. From vast political rallies to intense action sequences, the visuals are captivating.
• Grand Set Pieces: The nighttime forest fight scene stands out, with Stephen emerging through flames—a striking visual metaphor symbolizing his demonic persona. The fire momentarily forms what appear to be devilish horns behind him, enhancing his menacing presence.
• Visual Symbolism: Throughout the film, the use of color grading and lighting adds depth to the mood. Scenes featuring Stephen often use minimal light, creating a shadowy, mysterious aura.

Mohanlal’s Commanding Performance

Mohanlal’s presence is the film’s anchor.

• Even when absent from the screen, his influence looms over the narrative.
• When he finally appears, his portrayal of Khureshi Ab’raam is both menacing and magnetic, captivating the audience with his silent intensity.
• His entrance, marked by the single word “Vaada” (Come), is a standout moment, eliciting a thrilling response from fans.

Zayed Masood’s Emotional Arc

Prithviraj’s portrayal of Zayed is poignant and heartfelt.

• The flashback sequence, depicting the horrors of the Gujarat pogrom, adds emotional depth.
• Zayed’s loyalty to Stephen is effectively portrayed, making his character’s emotional journey one of the film’s highlights.

The Weaknesses: Storytelling and Pacing Issues

Surface-Level Conflict

While Empuraan attempts to address political corruption and communal violence, it falls into the trap of oversimplification.

• The film reduces complex socio-political issues into a formulaic battle of good versus evil.
• The depiction of communal violence lacks the necessary rawness, opting for stylized action over emotional impact.

Pacing and Editing Issues

• The film’s excessive runtime detracts from its narrative strength.
• Several sequences, particularly the action scenes, feel needlessly prolonged.
• Akhilesh Mohan’s editing, while visually polished, could have benefited from tighter cuts, improving the film’s overall flow.

Underdeveloped Characters

Unlike Lucifer, where even minor characters had significant depth, Empuraan struggles to give its supporting cast enough substance.

• Priyadarshini Ramdas (Manju Warrier) is underutilized. Her arc, which could have been a powerful counterpoint to Jathin’s corruption, feels shallow.
• Even characters like Boris Oliver (Jerome Flynn) and Michele Menuhin (Andrea Tivadar) lack meaningful development.

The Music and Sound Design: A Missed Opportunity

Underwhelming Score

Deepak Dev’s background music fails to leave a lasting impression.

• The absence of a memorable leitmotif weakens key moments.
• Even intense sequences, such as Stephen’s return, feel emotionally muted due to the lack of a rousing score.

Lack of Musical Identity

• Unlike Lucifer, where the soundtrack amplified dramatic moments, Empuraan lacks a defining musical theme.
• The emotional and action sequences could have been significantly elevated with a more impactful score.

The Themes: Power, Corruption, and Redemption

Political Undertones

Empuraan attempts to address political greed and communal strife.

• Jathin’s alliance with ASM serves as a commentary on how leaders exploit religious and ideological divides for personal gain.
• However, the film shies away from making direct political statements, diluting its thematic power.

Redemption and Justice

• Stephen’s return symbolizes the fight against oppression.
• However, his arc feels emotionally underdeveloped, relying more on his star power than on meaningful character growth.

The Verdict: A Visual Triumph with a Flawed Heart

Empuraan is a visual spectacle that showcases Prithviraj Sukumaran’s mastery of scale and action. However, its emotional impact falls short.

• Strengths
  • Mohanlal’s commanding performance
  • Stunning cinematography and visual effects
  • Poignant flashback sequences
• Weaknesses
  • Simplified conflict and underdeveloped characters
  • Excessive runtime and uneven pacing
  • Lack of a memorable musical score

Conclusion: What’s Next for the Franchise?

Despite its flaws, Empuraan successfully sets the stage for a third installment. However, for the franchise to reclaim its former glory, the creative team must focus on deeper character development and more nuanced storytelling.

While Empuraan dazzles visually, its heart lies in Lucifer. The third part will need to rediscover that emotional core to deliver a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.