I am a big fan of films inspired by local folklore and myths, and Kantara was one of my favourites from this genre. Just like many others! The bar was high, and Rishabh Shetty had pressure to deliver the same again in Kantara: Chapter 1. The star did pull off a visually engaging film this time, too, and yes, he was yet again the soul of this visionary project. However, Kantara: Chapter 1 falters on some levels and is not as simple and easygoing as the first part. This prequel is an overdose of information! Read the breakdown.
Plot
A lot of build-up happens in Chapter 1, which is a prequel to the 2022 film Kantara. We are told the story about the origin of the Daiva and how the tradition of Buta Kola began. The film is set in ancient times when the tribal groups protected and worshipped the Daiva, and how many external forces tried to capture them, including the kings. Rishabh Shetty as Berma eventually takes over as the leader of this tribe that resides in the forest of Kantara. Gulshan Devaiah is the cruel king of Bangra, and Rukmini Vasanth is the princess. There is another tribe called the Kadappa Adivasis who too want to capture the Daiva and the biggest enemies of the Kantara tribe.
The story is layered and towards the end, it has an unexpected twist which also makes it a story of betrayal. This mythological drama deeply delves into the background of this culture, tradition, belief system and opens a whole new layer of this folklore.
Performance
Rishabh Shetty is undoubtedly the show-stealer. The actor adds so much passion and grit to the character that the intensity of his performance is easily felt through the screen. Rishabh Shetty’s gaze, angry expressions, and effortless action is a treat to watch and he yet again dominates every frame.
Gulshan Devaiah is also impressive as the merciless, irresponsible king. The actor is so convincing that you instantly start to hate this king and want only bad things for him. Rukmini Vasanth is the suprise package in the film!
Writing And Pace
Rishabh Shetty makes sure that every single information about the origin of this myth is fed to the audience. However, in an attempt to do so, the story becomes an overdose of information which in some moments makes the film boring. Although, the build up takes so much time that I genuinely started missing the crisp, spot-on storytelling of the original Kantara. The second half still manages to pick up pace, and the climax becomes the strongest point in this storytelling.
More Action
Kantara: Chapter 1 has many action sequences, and most of them are visually appealing. It’s grand, over-the-top, and shot beautifully which left me in awe. Also a reminder, why films are only meant to be watched on the big screen! Also, comparatively, there is more action in this film.
VFX
The special effects and VFX in the film is average, in my opinion, not a big fan tho!
Verdict: Rishabh Shetty Is Phenomenal, Grand Spectacle, Slow Burn!
Kantara: Chapter 1 delivers for the most parts. It keeps up with the expectations that we had after the original. The performances are honest and raw, the story is engaging, the concept again is fresh, and all this wrapped in a cinematic treat. However, it’s the dragged pace, especially in the first half and the overflow of information is where the film struggles big time. It’s currently running in theatres!