When Gods Guard the Forest—Kantara Chapter 1 Is a Battle of Belief
Kantara Chapter 1 Movie Review: A Visual Feast That Misses Its Heart
Rishab Shetty returns with Kantara: Chapter 1, a prequel set centuries before the events of the 2022 blockbuster. While the film is visually stunning and rich in folklore, it struggles to match the emotional depth of its predecessor. The soul that made Kantara unforgettable flickers here, often overshadowed by grandeur.
Myth, Power & Resistance: The Story Behind Kantara
Set during the Kadamba dynasty, the film explores the divine origins of Kantara—a sacred forest protected by daivas Panjurli and Guliga. The story begins with King Vijayendra (Jayaram) forbidding entry into Kantara, fearing its mystical power. Years later, his son Kulashekara (Gulshan Devaiah) defies this rule, triggering a clash between royals and tribals.
Berme (Rishab Shetty), the fearless tribal leader, leads his people beyond their borders, discovering new ways to uplift their lives. Princess Kanakavathi (Rukmini Vasanth) admires Berme’s strength, while Kulashekara, threatened by Berme’s rise, seeks help from a dark tribe practicing black magic.
Performance & Characters: Rishab Shines, Others Fade
Rishab Shetty delivers a powerful performance, especially in scenes where he’s possessed by Guliga and Chamundi. His physical intensity and emotional range are impressive. However, the film focuses too heavily on Berme, sidelining other characters.
Kanakavathi’s arc surprises in the climax, thanks to Rukmini’s graceful portrayal. Jayaram and Gulshan Devaiah add depth, but most tribal characters remain underdeveloped, serving more as background than active participants.
Visuals & Sound: A Technical Masterpiece
The film’s biggest strength lies in its visuals. Cinematographer Arvind S Kashyap captures the forest’s mysticism with breathtaking shots. Production designer Banglan and art director Dharani Gangeputra build a world that feels ancient yet alive. Costume designer Pragathi Shetty adds authenticity to every frame.
Ajaneesh Loknath’s background score elevates key moments, though the songs lack the impact of Varaha Roopam from the first film. Editor Suresh keeps the pace tight in the second half, but the first half feels stretched and cluttered.
Action vs Emotion: Where Kantara Chapter 1 Stumbles
While the film features jaw-dropping action—especially the chariot and horse chase scenes—it often sacrifices emotional depth for spectacle. The Bangre market sequences, though visually rich, add little to the story. The film’s attempt to personify the setting falls short, making the tribal struggle feel superficial.
The theme of land rights, central to the original, is barely explored. Instead, the narrative leans into hero worship, turning Berme into a larger-than-life figure, reminiscent of Kamal Haasan’s Dasavathaaram.
Cultural Commentary: A Mixed Message
Kantara Chapter 1 blends tribal rituals with Hindu symbolism, creating a unified spiritual narrative. However, this approach risks oversimplifying and appropriating indigenous customs. The portrayal of tribals as either good or bad, and the emphasis on divine possession, may reflect broader political undertones.
Despite these concerns, the film does highlight the bond between nature and indigenous communities, offering a divine twist to their relationship with the wild.
Final Verdict: 3/5 Stars
Kantara Chapter 1 is a bold, ambitious prequel that dazzles with its visuals and scale. While it lacks the emotional core of the original, it still offers a cinematic experience worth watching—especially for fans of folklore, mythology, and Rishab Shetty’s unique storytelling.
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