(Please note that this write-up has spoilers!)

The Zamindari-tribal conflict is presented in flawless visuals, layered with magic realism and tribal traditions. (shot in the dark for the large part). The premise says, "A human and nature conflict where Shiva is the rebellion who works against nature. A loop leads to war between villagers and evil forces. Will he be able to replace peace in the village?"

Shiva's intro scene, although a cliche, thanks to Rishab's energy and presence, was outstanding-almost goosebumps. I can't imagine what it would have been like for people who have seen similar races in real life-I am sure it's a chill down their spine! The fight choreography (stunning) ensured the whole of Rishab was used and used well, and again, the cinematography was absolutely well done!

Visually, I adored each and every frame of the film, and I felt it was a good call to watch it in the theatre vs. waiting for it to come on OTT. Apparently, most of the 'Kola' scenes were shot in natural moonlight, and there were quite a few night shots that were pretty stunning and gorgeous. For me, post-first fight, the aggression got a bit too annoying, but the last ten minutes made it worth sitting through a lot of uncalled "wife jokes", to which, of course, the audience responded the way they are expected to, by laughing and whistling. The whole police brutality and groping, as usual, were not called out, both of which I felt could have been avoided. It might be a part of showing how wrong Murali or Shiva can be—maybe—yet it was disappointing. Writing failed!

Also, the music. I walked in knowing the ongoing controversy around the song Varaaha Roopam. In spite of that, I did enjoy the song. While I did enjoy the song, I also felt it was not fair to insert "ragas", which were quite "Brahminic sounding" sections into an Adivasi traditional dance, felt out of place for me. I'm no expert, and I might be completely wrong on this too, but feels like appropriation, and with the whole “Bhootha Kola is a Hindu tradition” campaign, it’s hard to enjoy the film with all these in it.

The portrayal of the significant women in his life, his mother (firebrand, yea..what else but) and his love interest (stands up when things are not OK, but ), although they had decent character growth, it was somehow disappointing. Maybe because no one else but Shiva was given any significant screentime, as Shiva and other roles. The misogyny was too jarring and quite distracting through the first half, and the movie was longer than needed. I suppose it was the "masala" that was distracting. The "jokes" were really quite weirdly placed.

The jumpscares felt like lazy writing, but there was a decent plot told (from a UC person's perspective) with some irritating "comedy". The final climax is excellent. The last ten minutes were brilliant, I suppose that made up for the rest of the pointless build-up (did it really?). As much as I enjoyed the theatre experience and believe it is worth seeing, I would have preferred a shorter and better-written one! And yes, Rishab Shetty has potential, but not without problems.

TL;DR

Bechdel Test: Fail

Rewatch: Maybe.

Awards: Many I am sure

My Rating: 3/5

Final Word: Stunts and camerawork are excellent. Rishab Shetty has potential, but not without problems.