This is not a review but my sincere opinion as someone who has admired Baahubali since its release.
As an NRI viewer, I have always felt a special connection to Indian cinema, and Baahubali has been one of the most iconic films that represented India’s storytelling power to the world.
Naturally, I was eager to watch the new combined version of Baahubali Part 1 and 2 presented as a single film.
The thought of experiencing both parts together on the big screen after so many years sounded exciting, but what I eventually felt was quite different.
I watched it on an XD screen. It is a serious four-hour investment including an interval and a trailer screening in between.
There were several rumors that a few deleted scenes not used in the original films were included in this re-edit. However, not even a single new scene was added. On the contrary, two superhit songs, Pachhabottu and Manohara, were completely removed.
The first half is dominated by Kalakeya Battle and some Tamannah scenes while the large part of second half is filled with Anushka’s scenes, which makes the pacing uneven and slower than the original.
The film still retains its iconic moments. The beheading of Adivi Sesh’s character, the execution of the Senapathi in the royal court and the majestic crowning ceremony of Bhallaladeva remain as powerful as ever.
These scenes defined the grandeur of Baahubali and they continue to give goosebumps even now. For those who want to relive these moments on a large screen, this re-release might still hold some value. But for everyone else, it offers nothing new.
Baahubali 1 and 2 were cinematic landmarks when released in 2015 and 2017. They redefined visual storytelling in Indian cinema and set new standards for scale.
However, since then, audiences have witnessed even grander productions and better visual effects in several international and Indian films. When compared to those, Baahubali’s visuals now look dated and less impressive.
On the whole, this version feels more like a nostalgic revisit than a new cinematic experience. Anyone who has spare time and deep affection for the franchise might still enjoy watching it, but it does not justify the long runtime.
Having watched both parts multiple times on smaller screens, I felt almost the same while watching this combined version in the theatre. It remains a great story, but this edition adds nothing fresh to it.
This film is only about 8 to 10 years old. Baahubali never really left our minds, so it cannot offer any sense of nostalgia. Would it create the desired impact if re-released after another 10 to 15 years? No idea!
Anuradha Kavuri, CA