The highly anticipated prequel to the 2022 blockbuster Kantara, Kantara: Chapter 1, has finally arrived in theaters, and early reviews are pouring in. Directed by Rishab Shetty, who also stars in the lead role, the film delves deeper into the mythological traditions and ancestral conflicts introduced in the first film. Set centuries before the events of Kantara, the prequel explores the origins of the legend that captivated audiences.
Initial reactions to Kantara: Chapter 1 are a mixed bag, with many praising the film's visual spectacle and Rishab Shetty's performance, while others find the narrative uneven and lengthy. Some viewers have lauded the film as a "visual and emotional masterpiece," with breathtaking cinematography and gripping storytelling. Social media is abuzz with tweets calling the film "unmissable" and "mind-blowing," with many viewers highlighting how the climax delivers an emotionally overwhelming and visually surreal experience. One user summed it up, saying, "Those final 10 minutes of climax redefine what cinema can do—visually breathtaking, emotionally overwhelming. A must & should watch movie".
Rishab Shetty's performance is receiving widespread acclaim, with many calling it a "commanding performance". He portrays Berme, a strong warrior whose destiny is intertwined with faith, folklore, and the supernatural. Another fan wrote, "Especially 2nd Half Peak Madness of @shetty_rishab will be on the next level B-L-O-C-K-B-U-S-T-E-R Peak cinematic experience". Jr. NTR also praised Shetty, saying, "Rishab Shetty sir pulled off the unthinkable by excelling both as a mindblowing actor and a brilliant director". Rukmini Vasanth also shines in her role. The film also stars Jayaram and Gulshan Devaiah in pivotal roles.
However, some critics and viewers have pointed out flaws in the film's narrative and pacing. Some find the first half slow and scattered, with the film taking time to gain momentum. One audience member told IANS that the "first half felt slow and scattered," but "the second half picks up and takes the story to another level". Another moviegoer remarked that compared to the first part, the film was not very good. Some viewers felt that the film was overhyped and disappointing, with poor writing and a confusing plot. One review read, "Just watched #KantaraChapter1, and it is below average, with poor writing and a confusing plot... Overhyped and disappointing".
The film's technical aspects have also garnered mixed reactions. While many have praised the stunning cinematography, grand set pieces, and action sequences, some viewers found the VFX dull and the editing lacking. Some tracks were found to be less impactful than others.
Despite its flaws, Kantara: Chapter 1 is being recognized for its ambition and heart. The film relies on its visuals, cinematography, and splendid scale to patch over the roughness in the narrative. The film is a spectacle-heavy prequel high on entertainment value.
Kantara: Chapter 1 has collected a net collection of ₹37.24 crore in India till evening shows on its release date.
The end credits of Kantara: Chapter 1 reveal that a third part is in the works, titled Kantara: A Legend - Chapter 2. This third installment will serve as a prequel to the first part and a sequel to the second part.
