The most-awaited release of 2025, “Kantara Chapter 1,” has finally hit the theatres today, which stars Rishab Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth, Gulshan Devaiah, and Jayaram in crucial roles.
It is a masterfully crafted cinematic experience that seamlessly weaves folklore, faith, and human emotion into a compelling narrative. As a prequel to the 2022 National Award-winning hit “Kantara,” this film takes audiences back to the roots of the story, exploring the origins of the daivas and Guliga. Directed by Rishab Shetty, this film is a testament to his team’s brilliance and dedication to storytelling.
What is the storyline?
The story revolves around the standoff between a tribal village of Kantara and a neighbouring kingdom over 2000 years ago. Berme, played by Rishab Shetty, is the fearless leader of the tribe who takes it upon himself to safeguard their identity and land. As tensions rise between the native tribe and the Bangra kingdom, led by King Kulasekhara (Gulshan Devaiah), a powerful confrontation ensues. The narrative unfolds as an epic face-off between the tribe’s way of life and the kingdom’s authority, capturing the essence of culture, resistance, and survival.
Berme and his tribe are fighting not just for their land, but for their very way of life and for the sake of Dharma. The kingdom, on the other hand, is determined to assert its authority and crush any opposition. The Kadapa tribe is portrayed as a proud and resilient community, deeply connected to their land and their traditions. Their way of life is rooted in a deep respect for nature and their ancestors, and they are determined to protect their heritage at all costs. The tribe’s culture and traditions are vibrant, and the film does an excellent job of showcasing their unique identity, which is led by Guliga Daiva and holds power over the Kantara tribe.
How were the performances?
Rishab Shetty delivers a commanding performance as Berme, showcasing his acting versatility. He proves he is a true performer, and his dedication to his craft is evident in every scene. He has a deep understanding of the character and the story, and he brings that understanding to life on screen.
Rukmini Vasanth as Kanakavathi shines as a strong-willed woman who plays a pivotal role in driving the tension and drama in the climax. Her chemistry with Rishab Shetty is palpable, and their interactions are charged with emotion. She brings a level of depth and nuance to her character, making her a memorable part of the narrative.
Jayaram’s masterful acting as the father of Kulasekhara is noteworthy, while Gulshan Devaiah’s portrayal of the leisure king is a mismatch of hits and a miss. The supporting cast, including Prakash Thuminad and Pramod Shetty, deliver solid performances that add depth to the narrative. Rishab Shetty’s comedic timing shines in the first half, bringing humor and levity to the story. The film’s narrative is masterfully woven, with a clear understanding of the stakes and characters’ motivations.
The technical brilliance of this folklore tale
The film boasts top-notch production quality, with breathtaking cinematography and impressive VFX, especially the sequence of the tiger and the boar. Arvind S Kashyap’s cinematography brings grandeur and intensity to the visuals, making every frame feel visually gripping and immersive. The action sequences are well-designed and neatly choreographed, while B Ajaneesh Loknath’s background score elevates every frame, resonating with its emotional depth.
The chariot chase sequence in the first half is exhilarating, and the war sequence at the end is intense and visually stunning. The film’s climax is a masterpiece, with the transformation and possession sequences giving audiences goosebumps. The fight sequences are well-choreographed, showcasing the team’s expertise in action direction.
Guliga and Panjurli Daiva sequences
The sequences featuring the divine entities, Guliga and Panjurli, are visually stunning and spiritually evocative, bringing the mythology to life in a way that’s both captivating and humbling. These pivotal scenes are expertly crafted, showcasing the film’s technical prowess and attention to detail. The Guliga sequences are intense and awe-inspiring, while the Panjurli sequences are mesmerizing and soulful, which makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for any cinephile.
Bhoota Kola reference
The film’s incorporation of the Bhoota Kola ritual is a masterstroke, adding a unique layer of cultural depth and authenticity to the narrative. The way the film captures the essence of this ancient ritual is breathtaking, giving audiences a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Bhoota Kola sequences, with the addition of the song Varaha Roopam, are a testament to the film’s attention to detail and commitment to preserving cultural heritage.
The film’s narrative is also woven with references to Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the story. The way the film incorporates these mythological elements is seamless, making it feel like an integral part of the narrative.
How is the music?
The songs are well-integrated into the narrative, adding great value to the film. B Ajaneesh Loknath’s background score is terrific, although it occasionally feels a bit loud. The score perfectly complements the film’s tone, elevating the emotional impact of key scenes, especially songs like Brahmalaksham and The Rebel Song.
Rishab Shetty and Team’s Brilliance
Rishab Shetty’s direction is masterful, bringing the story to life with his unique vision which actually showcases that he and his team have given years of hard work on this. His team’s brilliance is evident in every frame, from the cinematography to the VFX, music, and action sequences. The film’s production design, handled by Vinesh Banglan, is impressive, bringing the ancient era to life. The editing by Suresh Mallaiah is seamless, ensuring a smooth flow of the narrative.
The final verdict
Overall, “Kantara Chapter 1” is a must-watch for its technical brilliance, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. Despite some flaws in the narrative, the film’s grandeur and scale make it an unforgettable experience. With its epic storyline, memorable characters, and cinematic brilliance, “Kantara Chapter 1” is a worthy prequel to the original film. Rishab Shetty and his team’s hard work and dedication are evident in every frame, making this film a testament to their brilliance.