Review: Kaantha: Wavering But Genuine

 

Movie: Kaantha
Rating: 3.0/5

Cast: Dulquer Salmaan, Samuthirakani, Bhagyashri Borse, Rana Daggubati, and others

Director: Selvamani Selvaraj

Produced By: Spirit Media, Wayfarer Films 

Release Date: 14-11-2025

Story:

In Kaantha, the story follows Mahadeva (Dulquer Salmaan), a film hero who clashes with the director Ayya (Samuthirakani). His relationship with Kumari (Bhagyashri Borse), the heroine, takes a major turn because of his rift with his mentor, and the rest of the story is about how things lead to an unexpected crime scene.

Performances:

Dulquer Salmaan delivers a powerful performance as Mahadeva and carries the film with ease. Samuthirakani is excellent as Ayya, shining especially in the scenes where he goes head-to-head with Dulquer.

Bhagyashri Borse does a strong job as Kumari and leaves a warm, memorable impression. Rana Daggubati appears as a police officer investigating the case, and he plays the role decently. Most of the supporting actors are relatively unknown, but they fit the period setting perfectly and add authenticity to the film.

What Works:

Selvamani Selvaraj, who wrote and directed Kaantha, aims for a vintage feel and uses a “film within a film” concept. The first half feels fresh thanks to the striking visuals and the period backdrop. The rivalry between Mahadeva and Ayya begins interestingly, and the way it connects to the heroine’s story is impressive. The pacing is slow at first, but the film gains momentum and becomes more engaging as it reaches the interval.

The opening scenes of the second half, featuring Rana Daggubati, are highlights, and the film shifts gears nicely. The drama leading to the climax and the final scene also works well.

What doesn't work:

The resolution of Ayya and Mahadeva’s conflict could have been stronger. While the tension remains high in the second half, the emotional impact is weaker because the investigation feels average, as the revelations do not provide any thrill, and the themes of betrayal and trust do not land as powerfully as they should.

Kaantha Review and Verdict:

Selvamani Selvaraj’s Kaantha has an interesting plot that keeps the audience engaged most of the time. However, after a good start, the latter part suffers from ordinary execution, lacks strong emotions, and ends with an average climax.