KANTARA, a Kannada action thriller directed by Rishab Shetty, takes us on a captivating journey through coastal Karnataka, blending history, tradition, and culture. Set 30 years in the past, the film unfolds with conflicts, emotions, and romance, sprinkled with charming humor. While the first half has its enjoyable moments, the second half deepens the story, leading to an exhilarating climax that lingers in memory.
The screenplay, though somewhat predictable, keeps us engaged with impressive performances and visually stunning scenes that overshadow any shortcomings. Rishab Shetty's growing prowess as an actor shines, especially in the memorable climax. Kishore's performance is majestic, and the supporting cast, including RS, adds a delightful touch of humor.
Despite a somewhat subdued role, Sapthami Gowda, as the heroine, makes her mark. KANTARA stands out in the Kannada Film Industry for achieving remarkable results on a modest budget. The film's technical brilliance is evident, with outstanding cinematography by Arvind S Kashyap and a scintillating background score by Ajaneesh Loknath, ranking among the top three music directors.
Rustic yet fantastic dialogues, combined with Rishab Shetty's adept direction, turn KANTARA into a cinematic treat—a psychedelic experience. In essence, KANTARA is not just a movie; it's a mesmerizing concert that leaves a lasting impression, etching a symbolic gesture in the hearts of moviegoers.
