I know what you are thinking. "Matt, you put this movie in your top 10 of 2022. Why are you reviewing it now?" I had the opportunity to watch "RRR" in the theater and wanted to give it the complete review treatment.

"RRR" is the fictionalized story of two revolutionaries in 1920s India.

One of the reasons I went to see "RRR" in the theater was that this was the original Telugu language version. The version on Netflix is dubbed in Hindi. I am a proponent of watching things in the original language. You miss something in the performances when it is in a different language. Personally, I have a hard time watching anything if the audio doesn't match the visuals.

"RRR" goes big and doesn't let up. Director S.S Rajamouli is known for his big, bombastic films, and this one fits right along with that. The two main characters are introduced in epic ways. Raju (Ram Charn) is first seen working for the British and takes on 200 men to return one to the commander. Bheem (N.T. Rama Rao Jr.) is in the jungle and is seen fighting and capturing a tiger. In the final battle, Bheem stops a motorcycle by stomping down on the front tire and then swings it to hit the bad guys. This showcases these two performing amazing feats of strength and overcoming incredible odds so often. It is a ton of fun to watch.

The heart of this movie is the relationship between the two leads. They quickly become as close as brothers. They genuinely love and care for one another. They express these feelings with big words and gestures. It is rare to see two male characters express such deep feelings and still be fighters.

This being a movie made in India, there are musical numbers and some amazing ones. The one nominated for an Oscar on Sunday night is "Naatu, Naatu," which is by far the best. Our two heroes are invited to a party and when one of the white guests mocks them and says they can't be cultured because they don't know how to salsa or flamenco. Raju says they don't, but does he know Naautu? What follows is a fantastic dance sequence encapsulating everything I love about the movie; stunning visuals and a solid relationship between the two leads.

The movie is over three hours long but well worth it. I could have easily watched this for another three hours. The Hindi version is on Netflix, and if that is the only version you can watch, do it. If it is re-released in theaters near you, see the Telugu version.

10/10

Not Rated

3hrs 7mins