Why This Action Scene From Indian Movie Baahubali 2 is Going Viral in America

In the visually stunning and action-packed Indian film Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, one particular scene has captured the attention of viewers around the globe, sparking discussions and analyses of its physics-defying nature. This is the scene where warriors use palm trees as catapults to launch themselves over a fortress wall, which you will see below. I saw it for the first time recently, and I immediately knew it was worth an article.

Details Behind the Viral Action Scene from the Indian Movie Baahubali 2

The Baahubali series, particularly the second installment, is known for its larger-than-life action sequences and visual spectacles. The palm tree catapult scene perfectly exemplifies this approach.

In this scene, the army of Baahubali faces a formidable fortress, its high walls presenting a significant obstacle. To overcome this, they devise a plan to use the tall, flexible palm trees abundant in the area as makeshift catapults.

Warriors climb these trees, and with a coordinated effort, the trees are bent back, creating a massive amount of stored energy. Once released, the trees act as giant slingshots, launching the warriors high into the air and over the fortress walls, allowing them to infiltrate the enemy’s defenses.

The sheer scale and visual extravagance of the scene have made it a viral sensation.

It’s a moment that perfectly encapsulates the film’s over-the-top style, where physics and realism take a backseat to spectacle and excitement.

However, the scene has also drawn criticism for its blatant disregard for physical laws. Many viewers and critics have pointed out the impossibility of such a maneuver, citing factors like the weight of the warriors, the height and flexibility of palm trees, and the forces involved in such a launch.

The question of whether the warriors would survive the landing after being launched at such a speed and trajectory is also raised.

To understand the impact force the soldiers would endure; consider dropping an egg from a small height. It breaks. Now imagine the warrior is the egg being launched from 100 meters high.

This action scene from Indian movie
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Despite these criticisms, the scene’s popularity remains undiminished.

It has become a symbol of the film’s willingness to push boundaries and deliver unforgettable cinematic moments, regardless of their realism.

Also despite the overtop action, as I watched the scene for the first time I quickly noticed the intricate attention to detail such as the wood breaking and how the soldiers roll when they land.

This scene also opens up a broader discussion about action movies in Bollywood and their approach to special effects.

Bollywood’s Exaggerated Action: A Cultural Spectacle

Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai, has a long history of producing action films that often prioritize entertainment and spectacle over realism.

Unlike Hollywood, where there’s a greater emphasis on grounding action sequences in real-world physics (though this is also changing), Bollywood often embraces a more fantastical and exaggerated style.

This can be attributed to several factors, including cultural preferences, budgetary constraints, and a desire to create a unique cinematic experience.

One of the key reasons for the over-the-top nature of Bollywood action scenes is the audience’s expectations.

Indian audiences often appreciate films that offer a larger-than-life experience, filled with drama, emotion, and, of course, gravity-defying action.

This preference stems from a long tradition of storytelling in Indian culture, where myths and legends often feature superhuman feats and fantastical elements.

Think of it like enjoying a spicy dish; sometimes, the spicier, the better, even if it makes you sweat a bit.

This cultural inclination influences the kind of action sequences that Bollywood filmmakers create, leading them to prioritize entertainment value over strict adherence to reality.

Budget Constraints and Creative Compensation

Budgetary constraints also play a role in shaping Bollywood’s approach to special effects.

Compared to Hollywood, Bollywood films generally have smaller budgets, which can limit the quality and sophistication of their visual effects.

As a result, filmmakers often rely on creative camera work, exaggerated stunts, and stylized action to compensate for the limitations of their special effects.

It’s like trying to bake a gourmet cake with basic ingredients; you might not achieve the same level of perfection, but you can still create something delicious and visually appealing.

This approach can sometimes lead to cringe-worthy or unintentionally funny moments, but it also allows for a unique and imaginative style of action that sets Bollywood apart.

Moreover, Bollywood filmmakers often aim to create a distinct cinematic identity that caters to the tastes and sensibilities of their target audience.

This involves incorporating elements of Indian culture, music, and dance into their action sequences, creating a unique blend of action and entertainment.

Imagine a painter using vibrant colors and bold strokes to create a painting that reflects the unique culture and heritage of their land.

This approach can result in action scenes that are both exhilarating and culturally relevant, appealing to a wide range of viewers.

Criticism and Appreciation: A Matter of Perspective

However, the over-the-top nature of Bollywood action scenes is not without its critics.

Some viewers find the lack of realism distracting and even detrimental to the overall viewing experience. They argue that the constant disregard for physics and logic can undermine the emotional impact of the story and make it difficult to take the characters and their struggles seriously.

It’s like listening to a song with too many auto-tuned vocals; it might sound catchy at first, but eventually, the artificiality becomes grating. That’s not taking a shot a T-Pain.

These critics often call for a more balanced approach, where action sequences are still exciting and entertaining but grounded in a more believable reality.

On the other hand, many viewers embrace the exaggerated nature of Bollywood action scenes, seeing them as a source of humor and entertainment.

They argue that these scenes are not meant to be taken seriously and that their primary purpose is to provide a fun and escapist experience.

Think of it as watching a cartoon; you don’t expect the characters to behave realistically, but you enjoy the over-the-top antics and humorous situations.

These viewers often appreciate the creativity and imagination that goes into creating these outlandish action sequences, even if they are not entirely believable.

Ultimately, the appeal of Bollywood action scenes is subjective and depends on individual preferences.

Some viewers may find them cringe-worthy and over-the-top, while others may find them amazing and entertaining.

Regardless of one’s personal opinion, it’s undeniable that Bollywood’s approach to action is unique and has contributed to the industry’s distinct identity.

The action sequences are like a rollercoaster; some people love the adrenaline rush, while others prefer a more gentle ride.

A Shift Towards Realism: Evolving Expectations

In recent years, there has been a growing trend in Bollywood towards more realistic and grounded action sequences.

This shift is partly influenced by the increasing exposure of Indian audiences to Hollywood films and international standards of filmmaking.

Filmmakers are also realizing that a more balanced approach to action can enhance the emotional impact of the story and make it more relatable to viewers.

It’s like a chef experimenting with new flavors and techniques to create a dish that appeals to a wider range of palates.

This trend is evident in films like Uri: The Surgical Strike and Raazi, which feature action sequences that are more realistic and grounded than traditional Bollywood fare.

These films have been praised for their attention to detail and their ability to create a sense of tension and suspense without relying on exaggerated stunts or over-the-top special effects.

However, the trend towards realism does not mean that Bollywood is abandoning its signature style of over-the-top action altogether.

Many filmmakers continue to embrace the fantastical and exaggerated, recognizing its appeal to a significant portion of the audience. The key is to find a balance between realism and spectacle, creating action sequences that are both exciting and believable.

It’s like a musician blending different genres to create a unique sound that appeals to both traditionalists and modernists.

The Baahubali series, including the palm tree catapult scene, represents a specific style within Bollywood action cinema.

It leans heavily into spectacle, fantasy, and a disregard for the constraints of physics.

While not every viewer will appreciate this approach, it’s undeniably part of Bollywood’s diverse and evolving cinematic.

Honestly, I would say that scene is on par with 300 in terms of pure action with the slow motion effects.