Kaantha Movie Review: Strong Performances but Slow Docu Narrative Tests Patience

Story Overview

Kaantha follows the journey of actor Mahadeva (Dulquer Salmaan), whose clashes with director Ayya (Samuthirakani) shape the central conflict. His bond with Kumari (Bhagyashri Borse) also takes an unexpected turn, complicating his life further, especially after Rana appears as an investigating officer.

Performances

Dulquer Salmaan delivers a standout performance as Mahadeva, carrying the film almost entirely through his acting. Even if the film doesn’t appeal broadly in terms of reviews or box office numbers, Dulquer’s work is strong enough to remain a notable entry in his career.

Bhagyashri Borse is a pleasant surprise, offering an impressive portrayal that many didn’t foresee. Her role is likely to earn her considerable appreciation and elevate her visibility in the industry.

Rana Daggubati plays the investigator and offers a respectable performance, fitting well within the film’s tone.

Analysis

Writer-director Selvamani Selvaraj sets the narrative against a period backdrop and uses a “film within a film” structure. While the idea isn’t entirely new, it feels refreshing thanks to the compelling visual design and well-crafted period atmosphere.

The first half mostly focuses on the power struggle between the hero and the director, along with the heroine’s track. Strong visuals and Dulquer’s performance keep it afloat. However, the extended black-and-white film-reel sequences—which are meant to present the filmmaking process—don’t contribute meaningfully to the plot. These portions feel more like stylized inserts rather than essential storytelling elements.

The pre-interval section improves the momentum, raising interest for what’s to follow. Overall, the first half is watchable but slow, leaning heavily into a documentary tone.

The second half marks a tonal shift once Rana Daggubati enters. What starts as a drama turns into an investigative thriller. While this contrast could have worked, the slow pacing and stretched runtime affect the emotional weight of the climax. Although the suspense is held until the ending, the impact stays minimal due to the uneven narrative flow.

Despite these issues, the film benefits from strong acting, beautiful visuals and an authentic period setting. However, the story lacks the depth needed to match the performances and technical finesse. This film is best suited for viewers who appreciate slow-paced, experimental storytelling.

Other Actors

The supporting cast is minimal, but Samuthirakani’s role is both well-written and well-acted. His makeup, screen presence and performance stand out, though the Telugu dubbing may take a moment to adjust to.

Other actors—mostly newcomers—blend well into the period environment, adding credibility to the world-building.

Music & Technical Departments

Jhanu Chanthar’s music is functional, with songs that work adequately and a background score that matches the documentary-style approach. Though some may find it subdued or monotonous, it supports the film’s tone.

Dani Sanchez Lopez’s cinematography is a major highlight. The visuals are consistently striking and significantly elevate the film’s appeal. The production design also deserves praise for achieving an authentic period ambiance.

Editing by Llewellyn Anthony Gonsalvez could have been much tighter. The second half in particular feels lengthy and occasionally exhausting.

The production quality from Spirit Media and Wayfarer Films is excellent, showcasing high standards across visuals, design and setup.

Highlights

• Outstanding performance by Dulquer Salmaan
• Strong period visuals
• Impressive performances from Bhagyashri Borse and Samuthirakani

Drawbacks

• Documentary-like narration that may feel dull
• Very slow first half until the pre-interval point
• Overextended second half
• Emotional depth feels lacking in the conclusion

Bottom Line: A documentary-driven narrative that tests the viewer’s patience

Rating: 2.5/5

Censor: U/A | Runtime: 2h 43m