Kantara A Legend: Chapter 1

Rishab Shetty, who stunned audiences with Kantara (2022), returns with a grander vision, crafting a prequel that masterfully balances myth, raw intensity, and technical excellence. "Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1" is not just a film, it's an immersive cinematic experience that blends mythology, folklore, raw emotions, and stunning visual spectacle. Crafted with passion and precision, this chapter cements itself as a theatre-worthy masterpiece that demands to be witnessed on the big screen for its sheer technical brilliance. Rishab Shetty has not just made a film, he has crafted an experience that audiences will talk about long after they leave the theatre.

Arvind S. Kashyap's cinematography is a class apart and stands out as one of the biggest strengths of the film. Ajaneesh Loknath's music deserves special mention and his background score is nothing short of soul-stirring. At 168 minutes, the film might seem lengthy on paper, but the story ensures a gripping flow and manages to maintain a steady & engaging rhythm throughout. The screenplay never drags, instead flowing with a balance of spectacle and storytelling. The first half sprinkles in lighter moments with humour and breathtaking visuals, while the second half explodes into relentless action, with sequences that are staged with precision and carry a visceral impact. The only minor hiccup lies in a few comedy bits that don't land well, but these are quickly overshadowed by the film's many highs. The action choreography is terrific and rooted in authenticity. The climax, especially, is a relentless ride of intensity where action merges seamlessly with emotion.

Rishab Shetty, already celebrated with a National Award, proves once again why he is among the most talented storytellers of his generation. Wearing multiple hats as actor, writer, and director, he delivers a commanding performance. His dedication is visible in every frame, and it's impossible not to be swept away by his sheer effort and artistry. Rukmini Vasanth emerges as the surprise powerhouse of the film. Given one of the meatiest roles, she shines with a performance that is equal parts graceful and strong. Jayaram and Gulshan Devaiah, known for their versatility, shine in their respective roles with impactful performances. The rest of the supporting cast stands solid, never faltering in their contributions to the narrative.

Direction 3.5/5 Acting 4.5/5 Dialogues 3.5/5 Story 4.5/5 Screenplay 4/5.

"Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1" is a truly ambitious and visually stunning film, anchored by a brilliant and powerful performance from Rishab Shetty. The movie's technical achievements and its lead actor's acting prowess are undeniable, but it is held back from perfection by a weak climax and a slow start.

Rishab Shetty is phenomenal, delivering a performance that is nothing short of brilliant. His command of the screen and emotional depth make him a strong contender for another national award. The film's VFX and production design are also unbelievable and great, creating a stunning and immersive world that is a feast for the eyes.

However, the film struggles with its pacing, particularly in the first half. The comedy sequences are dragged out, which slows the narrative momentum and makes it difficult to stay consistently engaged. This uneven pacing is a significant flaw that affects the film's overall flow.

Furthermore, the climax is a little weak, failing to deliver the powerful and satisfying punch that the rest of the film builds towards. This rushed or underwhelming conclusion prevents the movie from reaching the cinematic heights it otherwise could have.

Overall, "Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 1" is an impressive film with a brilliant central performance and breathtaking visuals. However, its flawed pacing and a weak climax keep it from being a truly great film.

Rishab Shetty mesmerizes as Guliga Dyva, a divine force that comes alive in the mystical forests of Tulunadu. Unlike the first part, this film doesn't dwell on village life-it is rooted entirely in the forest, giving it a raw, mythical intensity. His transformation into Guliga in key moments is portrayed with unmatched depth and power.

The background score by Ajaneesh Loknath is simply spine-chilling, perfectly syncing with rituals, action, and divine energy. Cinematography captures the forest landscape with breathtaking detail, while world-class VFX elevates the mythological sequences to a grand scale without losing cultural authenticity.

With its blend of folklore, devotion, music, and cutting-edge filmmaking, Kanthara Chapter 1 is not just a film-it is an unforgettable experience. Rating: 9.8/10. Once again, KFI is ruling the cinema world!

Kantara: The Legend is nothing less than a grand cinematic triumph. Under the sharp vision of Rishab Shetty, the film goes far beyond being just a tale-it immerses you into the age-old legends and rich heritage of South India. It's a gripping exploration where folklore and reality collide, focusing on the eternal struggle between man, land, and the guardians of the wild.

From the opening frame, you are pulled straight into an intense battle of survival, fate, and nature. The visuals are breathtaking-cinematography at its finest! Each frame is crafted with precision, showcasing both the raw wilderness and the resilience of human spirit. Beyond visuals, the soundscape and scale feel immense-you sense the soil's dampness and the burden of centuries-old rituals. The depiction of the sacred Daiva Aradhane is nothing short of pure visual poetry.

This film is a glowing example of artistic brilliance, weaving together folklore, faith, and raw combat with seamless ease. Direction stands tall here-mythology isn't a mere backdrop; it forms the soul of the narrative, granting it a depth rarely found in present-day films.

Performances across the board are outstanding, bringing authenticity to every scene. Rishab Shetty himself commands attention with a dual-layered performance-effortlessly shifting between the simplicity of a common villager and the terrifying force required in the finale. Credit also goes to the screenplay-it's heartfelt, tightly structured, and ensures even supporting roles have weight. Hats off to Shetty sir-the writing is sharp, impactful, and unforgettable!

The story builds momentum steadily until the very end. Action sequences strike hard-they are fierce, grounded, and meticulously staged. Brutal yet real, they elevate the drama instead of just being flashy spectacle. The climax is nothing less than an electrifying, goosebump-inducing storm of visuals and emotions, leaving a lasting mark.

This is more than a film-it's a cultural phenomenon, a milestone in Indian cinema, and a legendary creation that will be remembered for years.

Review by: itsbymayank - LouteriyaJr

Mayank Prabha Louteriya.

Absolute respect for Rishab Shetty for making this movie so grand and beautiful. This is how a well planned and perfect use of budget looks like. It would be greatful if we somehow get to see the documentary on making of Kantara, want to see every single thought process and pre-production stuff.

Talking about Kantara chapter 1, we need more movies like this exploring and using the our own untold folklore with best film making style.

First half, totally takes its time to let you get into that world (and that time period). I was so shocked when it showed the jungle setting and the detailing of whole village 👀, that is crazy! Production team had really did their (more than) best, visuals and background score literally level up everything. Arvind Kashyap's cinematography is something to look at and B. Ajaneesh Loknath amplifying folk music to epic scale is great.

The action in first half is dahyem, great! Visuals so good that it's gives time to let the scenes grow grand, and the peaceful beauty of nature screams louder that anything else. And in second half, the action is chaotic, especially that fire attack. Rishab Shetty had shot that scene so clearly that maintain action choreography at that scale is really need appreciation.

This movie has to be one of those who sets the benchmark from production's perspective because it shines brightly. And very rarely, there are people who are great at story writing & direction. And you can clearly see Kantara Chapter 1 is hard work of 3 years with the incredible support of Hombale Films, and I just want to see this movie and the whole team to get the appreciation which it deserves.

I don't know why but there's one scene or just little part of climax build-up, why that particular scene not good? I mean if they had made the movie so great, so far that, that particular scene could have been a lot better. Background score and story at that point is at super peak but for very little moment they just go a little out of the track to serve the mass audience. This is very minor scene which you'll notice if you notice 👀.

On acting side, who are you doing? Gulshan Devaiah, lol, he just rocks on his evil character. And Rukmini Vasanth, oh boy, that's a wild energy. And Rishab Shetty? He turns on his god mode acting and goes crazy and cinematic this time.

I'll definitely, very highly suggest you watch this if you want to watch something new and related to our folklore. This movie deserves the appreciation, it's worth it.