“Return of the Dragon” has generated a lot of enthusiasm, particularly since Pradeep Ranganathan is making a comeback to Telugu cinema following his huge hit “Love Today.” Fans were excited to see if Ashwath Marimuthu’s film will have the same enchantment.
On the other hand, does “Return of the Dragon” meet or exceed expectations? Let’s get into a thorough analysis, going over the story, the acting, the technical details, and whether or not this young drama is worth your time.
Plot: A Road to Destruction or a Second Chance?
Dragon, played by Pradeep Ranganathan, is a college dropout with a 48-subject failure record. When his girlfriend Keerthy (Anupama Parameswaran) breaks up with him, his life drastically changes and he is forced to take drastic steps.
Determined to prove himself, he forges fake certificates and climbs the professional ladder. But just when things seem to be settling down—he’s on the brink of marrying another woman (Kayadu Lohar)—his past catches up with him.
His former college principal (played by the brilliant Mysskin) challenges him to return to college and complete his education. If he fails, his entire career will be exposed as a fraud.
Plot: A Road to Destruction or a Second Chance?
Dragon, played by Pradeep Ranganathan, is a college dropout with a 48-subject failure record. When his girlfriend Keerthy (Anupama Parameswaran) breaks up with him, his life drastically changes and he is forced to take drastic steps.
He fabricates certifications and advances in his career because he is determined to prove himself. However, his past comes up with him just as things appear to be getting settled down—he is about to marry another woman (Kayadu Lohar).
He is challenged to go back to school and finish his education by his former college principal, who is portrayed by the talented Mysskin. His entire career will be revealed as a scam if he fails.
Will Dragon accept his previous transgressions and turn his life around? Or will he eventually be caught using shortcuts?
Pradeep Ranganathan delivers a gripping performance as Dragon—a man battling his past and present.”
What Works: Powerful performances and captivating moments
✅ Relatable Storyline: The movie addresses a very pertinent subject: the negative effects of taking short cuts in life. The concept speaks to today’s kids, who frequently aim for achievement right away.
Strong Performances:
Once again, Pradeep Ranganathan dazzles with a blend of desperation, haughtiness, and emotional nuance.
Anupama Parameswaran contributes emotional weight to the story in a mature character.
As the college principal, Mysskin steals the show with a witty and authoritative performance.
In her little on-screen time, Kayadu Lohar excels, giving Dragon’s romantic life more nuance.
✅ The Last Half Hour is the Highlight: Despite pacing problems in the first half, the film is saved by powerful character changes and well-executed emotional scenes in the second half.
Mysskin delivers an authoritative performance, pushing Dragon to confront his past.
What Falls Short: Pacing and Narrative Issues
❌ Slow First Half: The first several scenes drag because the movie takes too long to establish Dragon’s phony ascent.
❌ Insufficient Depth in the Love Story: Dragon and Keerthy’s relationship is emotionally flat. A more compelling backstory might have given their split and its effects more nuance.
❌ The editing might have been more precise:
The movie would have been tighter and more interesting if it had been cut by at least fifteen minutes.
The chemistry between Pradeep Ranganathan and Anupama Parameswaran needed more depth.”
Technical Features: Diverse
🎵 Music and BGM:
The background music by Leon James works well, particularly during poignant periods.
The tunes don’t, however, have a profound effect.
🎬 Production and Cinematography Quality:
The school and city life are authentically captured by Niketh Bommi’s videography.
The production qualities are excellent, and the entire thing has a polished appearance.
Editing
Pradeep E Ragav’s editing is inconsistent; the film would have benefited from tighter pacing.
Return of the Dragon boasts stunning cinematography, capturing the campus setting beautifully
Director’s Opinion: Was Ashwath Marimuthu Correct?
Known for “Oh My Kadavule,” Ashwath Marimuthu offers an intriguing idea. Although the concept of a college dropout’s redemption narrative is compelling, the screenplay’s needless length makes it difficult to execute.
The movie may have had a much greater impact if he had concentrated more on Dragon’s emotional journey rather than his phony ascent.
Sharper editing and a better screenplay may have greatly improved the experience.
Director Ashwath Marimuthu delivers a thought-provoking message but struggles with pacing.”
Final Score: 2.75 out of 5 ⭐⭐⭐
📌 Conclusion: The film suffers from a slow first half and needless runtime, but it does have some strong points, particularly in the second half. Watch it for the captivating climax and Pradeep Ranganathan’s outstanding performance, but don’t expect too more.
What Are Your Thoughts?
Were you satisfied with “Return of the Dragon”? If you had another chance, would you do the same as Dragon? Please share your opinions in the comments section below!
A story of second chances—does Dragon make the right choice?”