Early in ‘Kantara Chapter 1,’ a poignant scene unfolds where Berme (Rishab Shetty) explains to his mother the profound significance of commerce. For their marginalized community, it’s more than just earning a living; it’s a symbol of accomplishment and a step towards dignity. Berme’s unwavering resolve to fight for his people’s rights forms the emotional core of the film, and director Rishab Shetty elevates this theme with breathtaking grandeur. This prequel is so expansive that the technically impressive original Kantara (2022) feels modest by comparison. While this massive scale enhances the film in many ways, it also introduces a few challenges.
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Just as the trailer hinted, the enigmatic Kantara forest once again takes center stage. The powerful Kadamba dynasty sets its sights on Eshwarana Hoothota, a hallowed, tribal-owned forest region. While the first film saw a landlord driven by sheer greed to seize villagers’ land, in this prequel, it’s a matter of royal pride. After being thwarted by an apparent divine intervention, the king (Jayaram) nurses his wounded ego, patiently biding his time. However, when Prince Kulasekhara (portrayed brilliantly by Gulshan Devaiah) attempts to trespass into Kantara, Berme emerges as a formidable defender.
Kantara Chapter 1 (Kannada)
The dynamic struggle between the impulsive Prince Kulasekhara and the quirky, yet utterly fearless Berme is compelling. However, the attempt to inject humor into otherwise intense scenes occasionally misses the mark. The film’s early pace feels somewhat stifled, with sudden cuts disrupting the narrative flow. This disjointed first half seems to stem from director Rishab Shetty’s eagerness to pack in numerous plot details too quickly.
While a few of the daring action sequences, particularly a jaw-dropping chariot scene, lean more towards spectacle than crucial plot development, they are nonetheless enjoyable and help propel the film forward. Despite an uneven opening act, the movie maintains intrigue through its robust world-building. ‘Kantara Chapter 1’ authentically portrays its indigenous communities, with costumes, makeup, and sets creating a truly immersive and visually stunning experience on the big screen.
Once the stage is meticulously set, Rishab Shetty nearly perfects his vision for a religious-themed mega-production, employing a bold, all-in approach to filmmaking, powerfully supported by his talented crew. Cinematographer Arvind Kashyap crafts a truly immersive experience, evoking a compelling war drama through his magnificent and imaginative shots. The simmering tension between the tribal community and the royalty reaches its peak during the ‘Brahmakalasha’ song, composed by Ajaneesh Loknath, who also provides a stirring battle anthem with the track ‘Rebel.’
Gulshan Devaiah in ‘Kantara Chapter 1’.
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Special Arrangement
Undoubtedly, Kantara Chapter 1 is destined to be celebrated for its stunning visual achievements. Rishab Shetty consistently aims to deliver those unforgettable ‘talk-about-it-for-days’ scenes, and he succeeds in abundance. The masterfully choreographed action sequences and spectacular CGI-infused moments electrify audiences with an intense rush of adrenaline.
The film set out to explore the origins of daivas (holy spirits) and the deep-seated spiritual traditions of the Tulunadu people. It’s evident the filmmakers made a sincere effort to research and understand this rich folklore. As an actor, Rishab Shetty’s commanding presence, so prominent in the first installment, is just as powerful in this prequel. His depiction of divine possession and the fierce strength of a deity is truly remarkable. Rukmini Vasanth, in a role that significantly showcases her acting range since the Sapta Sagaradaache Ello films, delivers a standout performance with impactful dialogue.
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However, the film’s poignant emotional core—the tribal community’s struggle for inclusivity and their fight against those attempting to dispossess them of their land—occasionally gets overshadowed by the sheer grandeur. While the original Kantara possessed a more profound soul, this prequel, despite numerous moving scenes, feels a touch less impactful on an emotional level.
Ultimately, these minor issues are easy to overlook, and any dull moments quickly fade from memory, thanks to the filmmakers’ unwavering dedication to scale. Rishab Shetty boldly pushes his creative boundaries, delivering an expansive and visually magnificent prequel that is packed with entertainment.
Kantara Chapter 1 is currently playing in theaters.