L2: Empuraan Movie Review | Anupama Chopra | THR India

Anupama Chopra dissects Empuraan, the sequel to the 2019 hit Lucifer, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran and written by Murali Gopy. She applauds its audacious scale, blending Kerala politics with global espionage, drug cartels, and religious extremism. The film positions itself as a commentary on secularism, echoing Stephen Nedumpally’s (Mohanlal) iconic line: “The battle is not between good and evil, but evil and evil.” Anupama praises the globe-trotting narrative—spanning Iraq, London, Yemen, and Kerala—and its sleek technical craft, including Sujit Vasudev’s cinematography and Prithviraj’s flair for mythologizing Mohanlal through slow-motion heroics and leather-clad gravitas. However, she critiques the 3-hour runtime, noting a stretched second half with overcooked action and underdeveloped arcs for characters like Jathin Ramdas (Tovino Thomas) and Govardhan (Indrajith Sukumaran).

While acknowledging Empuraan’s ambition, Chopra highlights narrative absurdities—like delayed police interventions reminiscent of 1970s cinema—and a convoluted screenplay that sacrifices emotional depth for spectacle. Yet, she credits the film for expanding Malayalam cinema’s boundaries, particularly in its climactic duel between Stephen and Zayed Masood (Prithviraj). Despite flaws, Chopra views Empuraan as a daring setup for L3, which promises to explore Stephen’s origins. Mohanlal’s magnetic presence and the film’s bold strokes, she argues, make it a flawed but thrilling chapter in this franchise.

#empuraan #anupamachopra #moviereview

[gouthamrao]

I felt the police intentionally reached the location late, because the ruling party wanted her hurt..That's what I thought

[h]

I think this movie is better than anything bollywood or any other industries have contributed in recent times.At least in terms of film making.

[thomasbabychan]

1. Police arrives late because Babu wants Manju Warrier dead
2. Why tovino turns villain - He himself is saying he hated his father and father hated him, and ofcourse power makes a person greedy
3. About Govardhan, it is true, it is not clear whats his role or what he done (maybe in L3)

Are you sure you understood the dialogues?

[Pravda]

The police scene was too easy for Kerala audience to grasp. The people who are trying to kill Priya has already infiltrated the State government & the CM. So Police playing foul is expected.

If anyone has any nausea about the “suspendig disbelief” part of this movie, suggest they watch 5 minutes of Animal, Indian2, Jailer or any of Vijay’s Tamil movies BEFORE watching Empuraan. You will be fine.

[heartlezzevil]

Total spoilers
This is storytelling
Not reviewing
More like a rewind

[jayajeevan]

I absolutely loved this movie. I am so annoyed with these negative reviews. L2: Empuraan" is a visual spectacle with Mohanlal's charismatic performance, Prithviraj's masterful direction, and Manju Warrier's strong presence. Abhimanyu Singh shines as a menacing villain. Stunning action sequences and breathtaking cinematography elevate the film. Though the narrative leans towards grandeur over depth, it’s an exhilarating experience for fans of stylish, high-octane cinema.

[abinbiju]

The fans are saying the first half was slow and the second part was great. The reviewers are saying the first half was great, but the second part was too long. I think the makers found a balance to cater to both kinds of audience.

[sumis]

Film is Great.
Too great ...
Too Bold.. That's exactly what's annoying some people.

[johnfp]

I just felt that L2 was a movie meant for world building and setting the pawns in place!

[aaronalambara]

It’s a great movie, and I genuinely don’t understand why people are making such a huge issue out of it instead of simply enjoying it as entertainment. It seems like the media is fueling unnecessary controversy, contributing more to religious tensions in India than the movie itself.

We all enjoyed the film, and hats off to the team for taking Malayalam cinema to the next level. Let’s focus on appreciating the effort and creativity rather

[Poppinszz]

international level making. hollywood level direction and camera. waiting for L3.

[arjunasok]

I dont know why so many other states reviewers complains anout why suraj got too little space in thw film. We know suraj is brilliant actor and suraj got this character perfectly as we know from so long. He got actually perfectly suits for him nothing got misplaced according to him. He perfectly fine with that character

[lensofUK]

I never felt that Suraj did little; his character was really important to the whole story. When the police failed to act while Priyadarshini was at stake, it was due to the political maneuvering that occurred, which couldn’t be compared to events from the 1970s. Moreover, this movie can never be compared to the mass masala films that Bollywood delivers, as it has far more substance and content.

Watching men die was never exhausting 😂😂—maybe that’s not something that should even be pointed out, considering how common it is in Bollywood films. It’s really important to understand the layers of the movie before reviewing it. The political themes reflected the confusion that exists in real-life Indian scenarios.

I would never say that the movie was perfect, but it was delivered exceptionally well by Prithviraj Sukumaran. The action sequences were mind-blowing. Watching this movie in theaters is truly essential to experiencing it fully. ❤❤

[vr]

I really loved the plot no idea y people say it's an average fiom...those who haven't seen the film must go and watch in theaters itself

[simple]

I thought the movie was great. It builds on the world created in "Lucifer, " attempts to fill in some gaps in the story, and blends it all together quite well. Could it have had a bigger impact if it were 15-20 minutes shorter? Yes, certainly, but the film is still excellent and not just a mindless mass masala sequel. I'm looking forward to "L3"—there’s a significant gap that still needs to be addressed: Stephen's journey to Khureshi.

[leorajann]

“I love the plot and how the world opens up for the next part’s background. Some foolish Malayalam reviewers are claiming that K.A. appears in ghostly shadow scenes at times. This movie brings out the Illuminati and the real Lucifer explanation in the background. He plays the character of Lucifer, not just a simple don.”

[govindjanardhanan]

Hats off 🎊 🎉 PRATHVIRAJ’s DIRECTION!! ❤

I went to watch the movie after watching your review. I must say the movie was amazing, visually enriching and starting to end engaging. Once again Prithviraj direction is a masterpiece & proud that we have an Indian Cinema like this 🎉

[Beingwanderingsoul]

Very good movie 👍 Plz don’t skip due to these online reviews, I was about to cancel my ticket but then decided to watch ! Really nice movie, quality making from Malayalam industry! Other state reviewers who appreciate masala movies may not like it!

[akhiltk]

Empuraan is 100 times better than Salaar, Leo, GOAT, Indian 2, Kanguva, and Game Changer. Don’t expect a Lucifer, but still go with an open mind and enjoy this Entertainer. These Mammotty fans and BJP fans will degrade the movie regardless of how good the movie is 😅

[Abcdefdjdjdjd]

My honest review is 8/10
Making is outstanding in Hollywood level
Storyline, when compared to the Lucifer movie's story it's not that great.
Although it's a must watch movie
Some people can't digest the politics showed in the movie and they are the one who is degrading the movie👍