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Ulidavaru Kandanthe, released in 2014, is a Kannada-language neo-noir thriller directed by Rakshit Shetty, who also stars in the lead role. The film garnered significant attention due to its unique narrative style, which presented the story from multiple perspectives. Ulidavaru Kandanthe can be best described as a compelling combination of crime, drama, and mystery, with a touch of dark humor. With an ensemble cast and an intriguing screenplay, the film stood out from typical Kannada films of the time. Rakshit Shetty, who is known for his experimental storytelling, brought forth a cinematic experience that was refreshing for audiences who enjoy thrillers with complex characters and intertwined plots. The film received widespread praise for its innovative approach and well-executed narrative. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Ulidavaru Kandanthe a notable entry in Kannada cinema.
2. Plot Summary
Ulidavaru Kandanthe follows the interconnected lives of several characters in the coastal town of Mangalore. The story begins with a robbery gone wrong, which leads to the mysterious death of a prominent man in the town. As the investigation progresses, the film unravels different viewpoints on the same event, told through the eyes of various characters, including a cop, a journalist, and a few people involved in the crime. Each character’s perspective sheds light on different aspects of the incident, slowly revealing the truth. The movie’s non-linear narrative structure keeps the audience on edge, as the truth is gradually unveiled with each perspective. The film intricately ties in personal motives, loyalty, and betrayal, making it much more than just a typical crime thriller.
3. What’s Good?
One of the standout aspects of Ulidavaru Kandanthe is its narrative structure. The non-linear storytelling, where each character narrates the events from their perspective, keeps the audience engaged throughout. This approach is refreshing, as it challenges the traditional way of telling a story. By seeing the same event through different lenses, the film explores how subjective truth can be, leaving the audience to piece together the entire picture.
The direction by Rakshit Shetty is another strong point. His ability to blend the elements of thriller and drama with a distinct style is impressive. He creates a gripping atmosphere while balancing the film’s dark themes with moments of lightness and humor. His attention to detail in building the suspense and tension throughout the narrative is commendable.
Rakshit Shetty’s performance is also a highlight. His portrayal of a troubled yet charismatic individual feels authentic and engaging. He brings a nuanced depth to his character, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The supporting cast, including Shwetha Srivatsav and Ravi Shankar, also delivers solid performances, helping to build the movie’s emotional core.
The cinematography by Advaitha Gurumurthy deserves special mention. The film’s visuals, particularly the stunning coastal landscapes and moody urban shots, add to the film’s overall tone. The aesthetic quality of the film, along with the well-composed shots, enhances the story’s narrative, drawing the audience into the world of Ulidavaru Kandanthe.
Additionally, the music by B. Ajaneesh Loknath fits perfectly with the film’s atmosphere. The score is haunting and complements the suspenseful narrative. The background music intensifies the emotional impact of key scenes, while the songs blend seamlessly into the movie’s rhythm.
4. Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
The major strength of Ulidavaru Kandanthe lies in its innovative narrative technique. The non-linear structure keeps viewers hooked, and the gradual revelation of events through different perspectives builds intrigue and suspense. This storytelling method allows the film to play with time and perception, creating a deeper layer of complexity in the narrative. The use of character-driven storytelling ensures that the audience remains emotionally invested in the film, making the twists and turns feel impactful.
Another strength is the atmosphere that Rakshit Shetty creates. The combination of dark, moody visuals, compelling music, and a gripping storyline immerses the audience in the world of Mangalore, making it feel authentic and real.
Weaknesses:
However, the film may not appeal to all audiences. The unconventional narrative style, while innovative, might be challenging for viewers who prefer a more linear and straightforward storytelling approach. Some may find the fragmented storytelling a bit disorienting, as it requires active engagement and attention to detail.
Additionally, while the characters are well-developed, certain aspects of their motivations are left somewhat ambiguous. This can leave some viewers feeling like they are missing key emotional connections, particularly when it comes to certain subplots that remain underexplored.
At times, the pacing can also feel slow, especially in the middle of the film, where the buildup to the climax lingers without a significant advancement in the plot. This slower pacing might test the patience of viewers who are expecting more action or quicker revelations.
5. Target Audience
Ulidavaru Kandanthe is primarily aimed at audiences who enjoy crime thrillers with intricate narratives and character studies. Fans of non-linear storytelling will appreciate the film’s unique structure. The film’s dark and mature themes make it more suitable for an adult audience, particularly those who appreciate thought-provoking films and can engage with a complex plot. Fans of Rakshit Shetty and those who enjoy fresh and unconventional Kannada cinema will find much to appreciate here. The film is also ideal for viewers who enjoy a more realistic portrayal of small-town life and its underlying secrets. Action lovers and those who prefer lighter entertainment might not find it as appealing, but those seeking intellectual engagement and atmospheric thrills will enjoy the ride.
6. Box Office Details
Ulidavaru Kandanthe was produced on a modest budget but went on to achieve a decent box office performance, especially considering the niche nature of the film.
- Total Budget: The film was made with an estimated budget of around ₹4 crore (INR).
- Worldwide Box Office Collection: The film grossed approximately ₹15 crore worldwide, making it a success relative to its budget. The movie’s success can be attributed to positive word-of-mouth and the increasing interest in offbeat Kannada films.
- Day-wise Earnings:
- Day 1: The film had a relatively quiet start, earning around ₹50 lakh in India and ₹5 lakh overseas. This was expected, considering the unconventional nature of the film.
- Day 2: Earnings grew to about ₹1 crore in India, with international earnings seeing a modest increase to ₹8 lakh.
- Day 3: The film’s collection picked up, grossing ₹1.2 crore in India, while overseas earnings rose to ₹10 lakh.
- Day 4: The earnings continued to grow with ₹1.5 crore from Indian screens, and the overseas collection reached ₹12 lakh.
- Day 5: By the fifth day, the film grossed around ₹1.8 crore domestically, while international earnings stood at ₹15 lakh.
The positive reception and gradual buildup of audience interest contributed to its success in both the domestic and international markets, demonstrating that unique stories can resonate with a wide range of viewers.
7. Recommendation
In conclusion, Ulidavaru Kandanthe is a gripping, well-crafted thriller that pushes the boundaries of conventional Kannada cinema. With its innovative narrative, strong performances, and atmospheric direction, the film is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and non-linear storytelling. Highly recommended for viewers who enjoy films that challenge traditional filmmaking techniques and offer more than just surface-level entertainment.
Genres:
Romance, Drama, Thriller
Rating:
7.773/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Rakshit Shetty | Richie |
| Kishore | Munna |
| Tara | Ratnakka |
| Yagna Shetty | Sharada |
| Achyuth Kumar | Balu |
| Pramod Shetty | Dinesha |
| Rishab Shetty | Raghu |
| Sheetal Shetty | Regina |
| Dinesh Mangalore | Shankar Poojary |
| B Suresha | Richie’s Father |
| Prabhakar Kunder | Painter Babanna |
| Kota Shivananda |
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