Prithivira

L2: Enpuraan Controversy Fueling Debates on Political Messaging 

 

The wait is over! L2: Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, hits theaters today, March 27. This highly anticipated film is the sequel to the 2019 hit Lucifer, with Mohanlal reprising his iconic role. The movie promises to take viewers on a deeper journey into the enigmatic world of Stephen Nedumpally, potentially revealing his true identity as the notorious crime lord Khureshi-Ab'ram.

But to witness Empuraan, the audience couldn't help but reflect on the suspenseful events of Lucifer that paved the way for this certainly high-stakes sequel, having me on the edge of my seat in eager anticipation.

 

Lucifer Movie

 

The film opens as news breaks of Kerala's Chief Minister PK Ramdas's unexpected passing, setting off cutthroat politicking within the governing IUF party. His daughter, Priya; his son, Jathin, living in America; interim leader, Mahesh Varma; and the enigmatic Stephen Nedumpally all materialize as prime figures in the fierce fight for power. 

Would his progressive vision survive the backroom dealing and shifting alliances sure to ensue in the vacuum of leadership, or would opportunists' personal ambitions hijack the future course? The intrigue surrounding the movie was always guaranteed.

 

Provocative or Propaganda

 

Indian filmmakers often raise issues that court controversy but have significance, as seen in films like The Kashmir Files unveiling a hidden tragedy, Kerala Story exposing uncomfortable biases, and Article 370 sparking long-overdue discussions on government reforms.

Despite encountering intense opposition overseas, these movies hit home so strongly by challenging unpleasant realities some would prefer to leave hidden. Naturally, not everyone approves of such endeavors, accusing some productions of being propaganda or politically motivated with ulterior motives instead of for the sake of knowledge and truth. 

Yet supporters propose unveiling oppressed or untold minorities' histories omitted from the mainstream can fortify cultural identity and civic consciousness, as achieved by Samrat Prithviraj reviving the glory of a once proud king or Bastar unveiling the violent insurgencies terrorizing far-flung areas. 

By addressing forbidden or sensitive topics through powerful narratives, the most daring directors are attempting to instill empathy and reflection where silence and apathy previously prevailed, be it for better or worse.