Rishab Shetty’s ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ has arrived in theaters, promising a captivating cinematic experience. The film joins the ranks of those that not only entertain but also spark introspection, films that are difficult not to praise. ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ aims to be a complete package, blending entertainment, thought-provoking themes, and a memorable experience, making it a true masterpiece.
Initial anticipation met with a touch of skepticism when the prequel’s trailer was unveiled, born out of concerns that the narrative’s essence could be diluted under the pressures of a grand-scale, pan-Indian release with a substantial budget. However, the film itself swiftly alleviates such concerns.
Three years prior, Rishab Shetty embarked on a creative endeavor by bringing to life a folk narrative deeply entrenched in Indian soil. This tale resonates with the collective beliefs of millions residing along the coastal regions of Maharashtra, Goa, and Karnataka, who have held these traditions sacred for generations. To unravel the unique aspects of this prequel, a thorough review is essential.
The narrative commences with a formidable king from the Kadamba Sultanate, his heart ensnared by insatiable greed. His ambition knows no bounds; he yearns to possess every river, stream, field, and mountain. His disregard for human life is absolute, as he eliminates all and seizes their territories.
One fateful day, the king’s attention falls upon an elderly fisherman plying his trade by the sea. The king promptly commands the fisherman’s capture. As the old man is brought before him, peculiar objects spill from his humble attire. Captivated by the sight, the king is instantly mesmerized! He resolves to uncover the source of this newfound treasure, leading him to the hallowed grounds of Kantara, where the inhabitants coexist harmoniously with nature. However, when the king casts his ominous gaze upon this land, he inadvertently provokes the deity that resides there.
As the story progresses through the decades, it transitions to the Bhangra kingdom. Here, the king’s son, Vijendra (played by Jayaram), has aged and entrusted his reign to his son, Kulashekhara (played by Gulshan Devaiah). His daughter, Kanakavathi (played by Rukmini Vasant), assumes control of the treasury. Meanwhile, in Kantara, Barme (played by Rishab Shetty) emerges as a leader, dedicated to elevating the village’s prestige and transforming the lives of its inhabitants.
When the people of Kantara present their grievances to the Bhangra court, events take a dramatic turn. The central questions arise: To whom does the land of Kantara truly belong? Who will safeguard it? And who conspires to destroy it? A fierce struggle erupts, transcending human conflict and becoming a battle for faith and rights, with consequences that will send shivers down your spine. To witness this gripping drama, one must experience Rishab Shetty’s Kantara Chapter 1 on the big screen.
If the 2022 Kantara left you speechless, get ready, because this prequel goes above and beyond. In the villages of Konkan, Karnataka, and Goa, deities and their attendants, the Tulunadu Daivas, are revered. These Daivas are often worshipped in the form of rocks. In Kantara, we gained insight into them, and this chapter 1 tells the beginning of their story very interestingly. From the beginning, the story is so engaging that you lose yourself in this world without blinking.
The meticulous craftsmanship extends to every scene, demanding and holding your attention. The film transcends mere entertainment or storytelling; it tackles the issue of exploitation of the poor that has been going on for centuries. The film shows how no one was allowed to touch the king’s horses, and those who did were killed. But Rishab Shetty’s rebellious character rides the horse, romances the king’s daughter, and also runs the chariot for the king. These scenes, breaking social norms, are woven into the story in such a way that they don’t feel forced. The first half is packed with power, and the second half surprises with twists and turns. This proves Rishab’s hard work, making this a must-watch.
Rishab Shetty not only acts in this film but also directs it, creating a sensation. Along with drama and entertainment, he attempts to present aspects like the struggles of tribal communities and their internal conflicts, which we are unaware of. As a director, Rishab played a big game. The Guliga’s scream from the previous Kantara, which gave us goosebumps, seems like a mere trailer compared to this prequel! Barme’s (Rishab) scream varies, expressing different pains. Chilling moments don’t cease but keep coming. Technically, the cinematography by Arvind Kashyap and the music by Anjaneesh Loknath are outstanding. Visual effects are also great, but some graphics in the second half seem a little weak, although this minor flaw doesn’t matter much.
If Rishab Shetty is the backbone of this film, Rukmini Vasant (Kanakavathi) is its soul. Rukmini has been given a powerful role in this film, and she has played it with full force. Her acting is powerful. Jayaram has also added color with his experienced acting. As for Gulshan Devaiah, he played the role of the incompetent king Kulashekhara so beautifully that you will truly be angered by seeing him on screen, and that is his victory! But the real game-changer is Rishab Shetty! In the climax and Guliga scenes, he doesn’t seem like just an actor; we feel the deity is delivering justice.
If you felt that Kantara was a defining cinematic experience, this prequel demonstrates the power embedded in traditions! Combining compelling visuals with a heartwarming narrative, the most remarkable aspect of this film is its authenticity. Kantara’s response to the question of why you worship stones is resounding. This film is not just a box-office success; it is a cinematic experience that will be remembered for a long time. So, fasten your seatbelts and immerse yourself in the world of Kantara, as this is the best film of the year. We give this film 4 stars.