Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is a prequel to the much-loved Mad Max: Fury Road. The first 20 minutes are epic and despite a run of 145 minutes, it doesn't get boring. A few action scenes are stunning and the breathtaking cinematography adds to the impact. Also, since it's a prequel, one knows what happened at a certain point in the story. Yet, it doesn't get predictable. On the flipside, there are gaps in the narrative. Developments happen and are not explained or their consequence is not shown. Moreover, after an epic intro, none of the scenes are able to match up to it. The climax also lacks the punch. In fact, the action loses its sheen after a point. Anya Taylor-Joy is terrific as the lead and special mention should also go to Alyla Browne for playing the young Furiosa perfectly. Chris Hemsworth essays an over-the-top character. But he performs it convincingly. Tom Burke (Praetorian Jack) is impressive in a supporting role. Charlee Fraser (Furiosa's mother) shines in a cameo while Lachy Hulme (Immortan Joe) is okay. All in all, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga is an average flick and nowhere close to the earlier film in the series.

My rating - ** ½ out of 5!

WILL BHAIYYA JI AND FURIOSA BRING SOME RESPITE?

Srikanth completes two weeks today and is doing quite well at the box office. As predicted last week, it’ll cross the Rs. 40 crore mark in June, which is a huge result for this film. Meanwhile, this week’s release might also surprise as they have mass appeal.

Bhaiyya Ji stars Manoj Bajpayee in the lead and it’s his 100th film. The actor is seen in an action avatar this time and it looks quite impressive. The film is directed by Apoorv Singh Karki and his last film, Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, became a surprise hit on OTT last year. Hence, there’s hope that the actor-director duo will once again create magic.

Bhaiyya Ji’s teaser caught attention but the subsequent promo and trailer haven’t lived up to it. Also, some feel that it looks like a B-grade film. However, this very factor can go in its favour, especially in the mass centres. Bhaiyya Ji is expected to open around Rs. 1 crore and might go a bit higher to Rs. 1.50 crore.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, meanwhile, was released today and is a prequel to the cult action film, Mad Max: Fury Road. The earlier part has a following in India. Also, this series is known for stunning action scenes and this will pull in a section of the audience. However, the buzz is limited and also, it’s A-rated. Hence, the business will be there but not significant. It is expected to open around Rs. 1 crore and can grow in the weekend if the target audience accepts it. A Rs. 15-20 crore lifetime will be great for this film.