HanuMan Review: A Faith-Driven Indian Superhero Story with Heart

Title: HanuMan

Language: Telugu

Genre: Superhero, Fantasy, Action, Adventure

Release Date: January 12, 2024

Director: Prasanth Varma

Cast: Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Vinay Rai

Duration: 2 hours 38 minutes

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

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HanuMan stands out as a rare and refreshing blend of Indian mythology and superhero storytelling. Drawing inspiration from the divine strength of Lord Hanuman, the film presents a grounded, village-based superhero narrative enriched with emotional depth and devotional undertones.

Beyond its standalone story, HanuMan also serves as the foundation for the Prasanth Varma Cinematic Universe (PVCU) — a bold attempt to build an indigenous superhero franchise rooted in Indian culture.

Story Summary (No Spoilers)

Hanumanthu is a carefree young man living in the village of Anjanadri. His ordinary life takes a dramatic turn when he gains mysterious powers connected to Lord Hanuman.

As he begins to understand the origin and purpose of his strength, Hanumanthu is faced with a moral choice: use his power for personal benefit or rise to serve the greater good.

The narrative explores themes of:

Faith and devotion

Power and responsibility

Good versus evil

Tradition versus modernity

Rather than focusing solely on spectacle, the film grounds its superhero journey in belief, humility, and moral growth.

Performances

Lead Performances

Teja Sajja (Hanumanthu)

Teja Sajja delivers a convincing transformation from an ordinary villager to a responsible protector. He balances action, humour, and emotion effectively, making the character relatable and earnest.

Amritha Aiyer

She brings warmth and emotional support to the narrative, adding balance to the protagonist’s journey.

Supporting Performances

Vinay Rai

Stylish and composed, Vinay Rai portrays the antagonist with restraint, representing a form of modern, calculated evil.

Varalaxmi Sarathkumar

Adds mythological gravitas to the film with a strong supporting role that deepens the spiritual layer of the story.

Direction & Screenplay

Narrative Style: 

A measured first half that builds toward a grand and emotionally charged second half

Screenplay: Mythological concepts are explained clearly without overwhelming the audience

Director Prasanth Varma skillfully blends Indian cultural roots with contemporary superhero filmmaking. His vision proves that strong imagination and storytelling can overcome budgetary limitations.

Technical Aspects

Cinematography: 

Effectively captures rural landscapes alongside fantasy elements

Music & Background Score:

 GowraHari delivers a devotional yet heroic score that elevates key moments

Visual Effects: 

Well executed within budget constraints

Action: Stylised fight sequences infused with mythological symbolism

Highlights

Indian mythology–based superhero concept

Emotionally powerful climax

Strong devotional undertone

Effective background score

Solid setup for the PVCU

Broad, family-friendly appeal

Drawbacks

Slow pacing in the first half

Some VFX shots could have benefited from additional polish

A few exaggerated moments

Final Verdict

HanuMan is not just another superhero film — it is a faith-driven Indian superhero story with heart and cultural identity.

Rooted in devotion and morality, the film resonates strongly with family audiences, children, and mythology lovers.

Final Thought:

“Having power is not important — how you use it defines who you are.”

Rating & Recommendation

Rating: ★★★★☆ / 5

Recommended For:

Family audiences

Mythology enthusiasts

Superhero fans

Enjoyable both in theatres and on OTT

Quick Info

Production House: Primeshow Entertainment

OTT Platform: ZEE5

Box Office: ₹350 crore worldwide (approx. $41 million)

Status: Low-budget film that became a pan-India blockbuster with cult popularity