RRR surprised me. Although I love many films from India, this one surpasses them all. As escapist entertainment, it contains everything I look for including a great story, cinematic artistry, and memorable performances. Add exhilarating dancing and I am sold completely. Who knew all this would be found in a three-hour epic adventure like RRR?

The fictional story takes place back in the 1920s when the British ruled India. A teenage girl (Twinkle Sharma) is taken from a close-net tribe by British masters who want to keep her. Bheem (N.T. Rama Rao Jr.), one of the tribe members, vows to get her back. Soon after that, Raju (Ram Charan), a dedicated Indian policeman, swears to catch the man who is causing the British so much trouble.

These two men become friends without knowing they are on opposite sides of the revolution soon to engulf all of India. Their many exciting escapades showcase the bravery and amazing strength of each man. (Historical note: the characters they play really existed but never even met each other.)           

It’s rip roaring riveting fun.

You’ll be exhausted when it’s done.

Action, drama and wild dancing.

Don’t blink or you will miss something.

Two heroes show their super strength

 and become friends for a time length.

But revolution can be tough.

It tears them apart, so that’s rough.

Spectacular is “RRR.”

Over the top but you’ll want more.

India gives us a great time.

And now it is a fave of mine!

Ram Charan and N.T.Rama Rao Jr. deserve praise for their impressive lead performances. They make their characters seem real even in scenes that are pure fantasy. Charan plays the more stoical one (until he gets angry) and Rama Rao Jr. shows more of his character’s emotional side. But they work together like hand and glove. And, wow, can these great guys dance! Plus, it’s easy to see them as super heroes.

Other members of the cast manage to provide first-rate support. Playing evil British people to the hilt are Ray Stevenson as the Governor, Edward Sonnenblick as his assistant and Alison Doody as a woman who wants bloody revenge. The one likeable Brit is portrayed by Olivia Morris. She projects grace and kindness as a young woman who falls for Bheem.

The cinematography in RRR is eye-popping in many scenes. One rescue segment involving a child in danger stands out. So do battle scenes -- even with huge tigers. I also appreciate the crisp, colorful visuals most of the time in place of that dark and hazy look in too many movies lately.   

My only complaints? Excessive violence and not enough dance numbers. I can’t help thinking how great it would be if this fabulous film were re-made as a musical.  But, as you probably know, I think that’s true about any motion picture.  

Too much of a good thing can be wonderful! --- Mae West

(Released by Sarigama Cinemas/Netflix. Not rated by MPAA.)

Director: S.S. Rajamouli

Writers: S.S. Rajamouli, Vijayendra Prasad, Sai Madhan Burra, Madham Karky

Cinematographer: K.K. Senthil

Special Effects:   Prakash Kotha