Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana

Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana signifies Raj B Shetty's conceptualization of typical gangster dramas. By comprising the traditional tropes with the essence of mythology; I must admit, Shetty's ideation was nothing short of a courteous attempt. Such metaphorical depiction of Brotherhood, Betrayal and Eradication is something that I have never been a witness of!

What stood out to me the most is its rather unconventional take on Power Dynamics and how methodically it defines the consequences of inherent Obsession and searing Rage. Elucidated through three eclectic personalities; Brahmyaa, Hari and Shiva. One creates, one nourishes and the remaining one annihilates!

These three central figures are interwoven with a rousing narration that does seem to lose its grip in the middle; however, it remained steadfast on its better dispositions until the last possible second. Firmly backed up by a fantastic score and some impeccable performances. Not to mention, Raj B Shetty, who was by and large superior to everybody else!

As a matter of fact; It's not easy for an artist to even out two extensively different conceptions. One, while staying in front of the camera and the other one, while supervising from behind. At any given moment, these two varied opinions can easily cause some issues and hinder the prospects of the final outcome.

Luckily, in this case, that didn't happen. Barring a few insufficiencies, Mr Shetty has shown equal commitment and maturity in both of his positions; thereupon, giving birth to an inimitable tale of authority and vengeance.

It is immensely hard to catch the audience by surprise in the over-populated and overdone gangster drama genre where audiences have been exposed to everything from Scorcese's panache to Kashyap's rootedness.

Yet, Raj B Shetty's "Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana" deftly unnerves and astounds with its rustic narration, explosive action and mythological symbolism, augmented by a chilling background score and convincing lead performances.

Rishab and Raj might be lesser known Shettys of Kannada cinema given the pan-India reach of Rakshit Shetty but they stand a head taller here in terms of creative output. Raj B Shetty is stunning as "Shiva", nuanced and restrained in emotional portions and deliciously violent in the action segments, playing an able foil to Rishab Shetty's "Hari".

With obvious symbolism to Hindi deities Lord Shiva and Vishnu respectively, the story follows the two surrogate brothers as they build a mafia empire together, only to squabble and fight as a clever police office turns them against each other.

The oft-repeated plotline, reminiscent of Mani Ratnam's Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (2018) however, does not come across as formulaic since the narrative is purely driven forward by the lead actors' immense performances and the use of motifs and analogies to create lasting emotional impact.

The director uses smartly tailored frames and spine-tingling background music to create a sense of foreboding and dread even with just a pair of shoes! With rustic characters, raw violence, psychological turmoil and human ego driving the story forward, Malayalees especially will feel a sense of Lijo Jose Pallissery-ness in this story, such is the quality and vibrancy of Raj B Shetty's construction of the narrative.

Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana is a landmark not just in Kannada cinema, but in the annals of Indian cinema as well. It is no wonder that celebrated auteur Gautham Menon quickly snapped up the Tamil remake rights for this gem.

All superlatives and praise fall short for this sensational gangster saga. Highly, highly recommended. An absolute must-watch!

This is one of the most 'well-made' movies of 2021, IMO. The Kannada film industry gets a bad rap but content like this goes a long way in showing why you need to 'put some respeck on it'.

The director (who's also written and acted in this movie) is apparently a Martin Scorsese fan and boy has he made a film Scorsese might enjoy from a filmmaking standpoint.

While this is a regular gangster story that doesn't have anything mind-blowing story-wise, the writing, sound design, editing, the several layers, acting & cinematography are amazing. They elevate this gangster-take on Brahma-Vishnu-Shiv to a totally different level.

That 'tiger-dance' sequence in the rain - *slow claps*

While this isn't a movie for everyone, if you enjoy stuff like The Godfather or Scorsese-que content, this might be worth a shot. Also, I lowkey like how easy to understand and follow Kannada is. Hoping to watch more Sandalwood movies.

Movie was excellent and has lot of depth. Good this movie was released in theatre. Music & Cinematography was brilliant. Ending is kind of different and keeps you thinking, Depends on the individual.

Minute detailing and short picturisation is something Raj B Shetty has done brilliantly.

It's in the level of Kamatipadam & Angamaly Diaries ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.

Incredible acting skills and groovy music till the end. Storyline was good. Zero overexaggerating. No nonsense scenes. Realistic dialogues. Can't take your eyes off this one. Bottom line- Shettys taking over sandalwood.