Avinash Pd

Kantara: A Legend – Chapter 1 is an intensely immersive big‑screen experience that lives and breathes its folklore. I was pulled in by the rituals, the forest mythos, and the way faith and power collide on a sweeping canvas. Rishab Shetty commands every frame—both as actor and storyteller—bringing physicality, conviction, and a spiritual charge that gave me multiple goosebumps in the second half. The world‑building feels rich and tactile. From the daiva traditions to the production design and VFX, the film creates a lived‑in universe that’s rare in mainstream cinema. Ajaneesh Loknath’s background score is a powerhouse; it doesn’t just underline scenes, it lifts them into a trance‑like rhythm, especially during the ritualistic sequences and the war passages. If there’s a downside, the first half is uneven. A few comedic stretches and detours slow the momentum before the interval. Some character beats—particularly in the romance track—felt undercooked compared to the scale of the conflict. The finale, while grand and satisfying, didn’t hit as hard for me as the unforgettable crescendo of the first film. Performances are strong across the board. Rukmini Vasanth brings poise and presence, hinting at deeper arcs to come. The antagonistic forces are imposing in buildup, and the second half converts that tension into rousing set pieces that truly justify a theatrical watch. Verdict: Despite early pacing wrinkles, this chapter is a must‑watch in theatres for its atmosphere, craft, music, and mythic immersion. It expands the Kantara universe with confidence and delivers a second half that’s worth the price of admission.

Mirzapur Season 3 is disappointingly slow, requiring considerable patience from its viewers. Previous seasons set a high bar with their engaging and intense narratives, but Season 3 falls short of these expectations. Despite the anticipation for another top-notch installment, this season fails to deliver the same level of excitement and storytelling that made its predecessors so compelling.

12th Fail (2023) emerges as the best movie of the year, a Bollywood masterpiece that deserves its Oscar-winning status. The film's thought-provoking narrative delivers pure inspiration and motivation for generations to come, emphasizing resilience, positivity, and societal contribution. Vikrant Massey's outstanding performance as Manoj Sir stands out, showcasing his transformation into the character brilliantly. The love story between IPS Officer Manoj Sir and Shraddha Mam adds depth and inspiration, portraying a true sign of a warrior. The movie beautifully explores the bonds of friendship, love, trust, and honor for one's native place, evoking a range of emotions. Medha as Shraddha, Anshumaan Pushkar as Gauri Shankar bhaiya, and Anant Pandey contribute to the brilliant cast, creating a compelling ensemble. The director, Vidhu Vinod Chopra, deserves applause for crafting this emotional journey of life, tackling obstacles with fearlessness and confidence. The film's fantastic music, songs, and overall execution make it a perfect package. Highly recommended for all ages, especially for kids aiming towards a bright future.