In the quaint and undeveloped village of Anjanadri, the story of "HanuMan" unfolds, revolving around the transformative journey of Hanumanthu (Teja Sajja). The narrative takes root in Michael's (Vinay Rai) childhood fascination with superpowers, setting the stage for a clash between good and evil. As HanuMan discovers supernatural abilities akin to the legendary Hanuman, Michael's relentless pursuit of the same powers leads to a battle that will determine the fate of Anjanadri.
Directed by Prasanth Varma, known for his previous successes like "Awe" and "Zombie Reddy," the Telugu superhero film intricately blends elements of Indian mythology with a contemporary storyline. Released during Sankranti, the film, part of the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe, features an ensemble cast including Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, and Vinay Rai.
Varma skillfully weaves familiar mythological elements with CGI, enhancing the supernatural presence of the protagonist in the rustic setting of Anjanadri. Beyond the clash of powers, the narrative explores rural dynamics and challenges faced by villagers, incorporating a love story and addressing oppressive practices.
Teja Sajja delivers a compelling performance as Hanumanthu, evolving from a mischievous thief to the savior of Anjanadri. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, portraying Anjamma, Hanumanthu's elder sister, brings a perfect blend of strength and beauty to her character. Amritha Aiyer, as Meenakshi, a doctor entangled in a love story with Hanumanthu, adds balance to the narrative. Vinay Rai, as the antagonist, contributes significantly to the adventurous plot.
The film's visual effects deserve praise for enhancing the narrative without overshadowing it, creating a visually engaging experience. Cinematography by Dasaradhi Sivendra and editing by Sai Babu Talari contribute to the film's overall appeal. The music by Anudeep Dev, Gowra Hari, and Krishna Saurabh complements the viewing experience.
While the storytelling, visuals, and performances contribute to the film's success, the pacing, especially in the first half, could have been improved with a tighter edit and shorter runtime. Nevertheless, "HanuMan" offers a unique blend of mythology and contemporary action, marking a significant addition to Indian cinema. With depth, authenticity, and a captivating narrative, the film propels Teja Sajja into a new league of actors.