The film explores whether friendship can exist without expectations or promises and whether it can be liberating—a way of reconnecting without the burdens of romantic obligation.

Megha(3 / 5)

The film begins with an action sequence setting the stage for the complex emotional journey of Megha, played by Kiran Raj. Rather than just serving as an introduction scene, the stunt sequence also reflects Megha’s inner turmoil. His frustration stems from his girlfriend Priya’s (Shri Vidya) decision to break up with him. It’s yet another case of love lost, and Megha struggles to cope with the frustration. His internal conflict is palpable, with the chances of resonating with the young audience high.

Director: Charan HR

Cast: Kiran Raj, Kajal Kunder, Rajesh Nataranga, and Shobhraj

On the other side, we are introduced to another Megha (Kajal Kunder), who is enduring a different kind of emotional punishment. Her father, Jagadish, aka Jagga (Shobaraj), disapproves of her relationship, forcing her to fall in line with his wishes. The theme of parental control and the tension it creates in young love is explored in Megha’s storyline.

The film catches our attention with the line, “Meeting you was a nice accident,” written on a coffee shop board. This is where both characters end up sitting for hours, reflecting the unpredictability of life and love. It’s an acknowledgement that sometimes, the best things in life come when we least expect them. But love, much like an accident, can also leave us with scars, and healing those wounds is not as simple as it may seem.

As the story progresses, the theme of friendship in the context of love becomes significant. Amid the confusion and emotional turmoil, it becomes clear that friendship, too, has its own rules. Can one truly ‘just be’ friends, keeping the connection intact without the dependence and emotional intimacy that accompanies it? The film explores whether friendship can exist without expectations or promises and whether it can be liberating—a way of reconnecting without the burdens of romantic obligation. But will they remain just friends?

Megha’s father, Chandrashekar (Rajesh Nataranga), a painter by profession, adds an interesting hue to the film. He is more of a friend to his son than a typical father figure, offering him advice about love and friendship; he doesn’t speak to him unthinkingly. However, even he has a past that leads to a deeply philosophical exploration of friendship, love, regret, and the consequences of decisions. Chandrashekar had promised his late wife that he would look after their son, ensuring that he wouldn’t miss her. In an emotionally effective scene, Chandrasekhar pours his heart out to his son during a long drive, where he tells how circumstances separated him from his friend Jagga, who could’ve been a part of his life forever. This scene echoes the film’s message: that love and friendship, once lost, can never be regained, and the choices we make in the present can have irreversible consequences—but healing is possible if we choose to.

As Megha explores love and friendship, the father-son dynamic becomes another critical element of the film. Kiran Raj’s relationship with his father, Rajesh Nataranga, is explored in depth as both characters attempt to come to terms with their emotional histories. In a cathartic moment, the father confesses his mistakes, caused by miscommunication, to his son. The emotional weight of this confession resonates deeply. It is also interesting to learn why the father has his son’s name, Megha, and the reason behind it.

The film’s climax is filled with emotional twists and moments of clarity. As Megha (the hero) and Megha (the heroine) confront their respective pasts, they must decide whether they are willing to let go of their old wounds and embrace a future together or if their love will remain a distant memory. The conclusion is bittersweet, offering hope while acknowledging the complexities of love and friendship.

Charan HR, the debutant director and writer, had said that the film is based on an incident that happened with one of his friends. He brings the emotions of love and friendship to the big screen, capturing the essence of reality. While he has made a promising start, there is still a long way to go. Actor Kiran Raj, known for his performances on the small screen, proves his versatility on the big screen in a love story. Kajal Kunder, as always, brings her best to her character. A special highlight also comes from Rajesh Nataranga, while Shobaraj’s performance in the climax makes the film even more relatable. But comedy was a no-go; it felt like a distraction. The complexities of friendship, love, and bonding are also well expressed through the melodious songs, with simple yet meaningful lyrics composed by Joel Sakkari. Cinematographer Gautam Nayak captures the beauty of Mysuru and the landscapes of Chikmagalur.

This film is an exploration of love, loss, and the tangled web of emotions that most people experience in life. It offers no easy answers but invites viewers to reflect on their relationships and their choices in love and life. Whether it’s the confusion of unspoken feelings, the clarity of friendship without expectation, or the deep regrets of past decisions, the film captures the highs and lows of human connection. Above all, Megha illustrates the importance of communication in love and relationships and explores what it means to be human—to grow, heal, and learn from the past.

It’s an imperfect yet heartfelt reminder that stories of heritage, when told with earnestness, still have a place in our rapidly changing environment

Gumti (2.5 / 5)

Today’s films where stories often seek safety in the predictable, Gumti comes across as an earnest, albeit imperfect, attempt to preserve the fading traditions of the Kudubi community. Vikas S Shetty’s childhood dream of bringing his native folk art to life finds a cinematic treatment through director Sandesh Shetty Ajri, who also steps into the shoes of the film’s conflicted protagonist.

Named after a traditional percussion instrument integral to the Kudubi way of life, Gumti explores the rituals, fading practices, and the mounting pressures of a modernised world. At its heart lies the story of Kashi Hiremane, a young man who scoffs at his community’s deeply rooted traditions and escapes to a bustling life in Solapur, where he seeks a job in a hotel. But when a crisis compels him to return, Kashi faces a stark choice: revive the sacred Gumti celebrations or let them fade into oblivion.

Film: Gumti

Direction: Sandesh Shetty Ajri

Cast: Sandesh Shetty Ajri, Vaishnavi Nadig, Ranjan Chatrapathi, Karan Kundar, Yash Acharya, Prabhakar Kundar, Raghu Pandeshwar, Chetan Nailadi, and Swaraj Lakshmi

Named after a traditional percussion instrument integral to the Kudubi way of life, Gumti explores the rituals, fading practices, and the mounting pressures of a modernised world. At its heart lies the story of Kashi Hiremane, a young man who scoffs at his community’s deeply rooted traditions and escapes to a bustling life in Solapur, where he seeks a job in a hotel. But when a crisis compels him to return, Kashi faces a stark choice: revive the sacred Gumti celebrations or let them fade into oblivion.

The narrative is anchored in Kashi’s journey—a man confronting between rebellion and redemption. His father, a staunch guardian of tradition, symbolises a generation’s fight to preserve identity. Contrasting this is Kashi’s interaction with technology—using a video appeal to rally his people for a revival. This juxtaposition between cultural pride and modern disconnect raises compelling questions about the place of heritage in an evolving world. Yet, the storytelling occasionally wavers, with heavy-handed sequences detracting from the film’s deeper themes.

Sandesh Shetty Ajri delivers a performance that feels more natural than nuanced, blending his directorial intentions with an honest portrayal of Kashi. While his dual role adds authenticity to the Kudubi world, the ambition to excel as both actor and director sometimes dilutes the sharpness of execution. Sandesh’s vision of cultural preservation is admirable, but his storytelling stumbles under its own weight, often straying into exposition-heavy territory. Vaishnavi Nadig brings a subdued yet powerful presence, capturing the quiet resilience of a Kudubi woman. The supporting cast—Ranjan Chatrapathi, Karan Kundar, Yash Acharya, and others—adds texture to the story, even if their roles remain largely peripheral.

Gumti is far from flawless—its stretched sequences and predictable arcs weigh it down. But as a cultural document, it succeeds in sparking dialogue about the preservation of fading traditions. Sandesh’s commitment to authenticity is commendable, even if the execution occasionally falters.

For those yearning to experience the echoes of a vanishing world, Gumti offers a window—albeit with smudged glass. It’s an imperfect yet heartfelt reminder that stories of heritage, when told with earnestness, still have a place in our rapidly changing environment.

After bravely battling cancer, Shivarajkumar will return to acting with the film, tentatively titled Shivanna 131

Shivarajkumar, whose infectious energy has made him a household name, is ready to conquer the screen once again. After bravely battling cancer and undergoing surgery in Miami, the actor, fondly known as The Century Star and Hattrick Hero, has not wasted any time in returning to his true passion: acting. With renewed vigour, Shivarajkumar will resume filming for his next project, tentatively titled Shivanna 131, starting today.

The actor was present at the inauguration of the 16th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes), held on Friday, and expressed his gratitude for the immense support of his fans and well-wishers during his recovery. “All your prayers and good wishes have brought me here,” he said. “I am starting work on Monday with the same energy and power.”

Karthik Adwaith, director of Shivanna 131, shared his excitement on social media, writing, “A stronger comeback is just one of the things Deva is known for. Welcome back, King!” Speaking to CE about the film’s progress, he added, “Before Shivanna took a break for his treatment, we had completed 25 per cent of the shooting. Now, with his return, we are ready to pick up right where we left off. Shivanna brings so much energy to the set, and I’m beyond excited to have him back. We’ll begin shooting the talky portions, and that will continue throughout the month. We’ve been in constant communication with him over these past months, and we’re not nervous—just happy to welcome him back. We now have to match his level of energy.”

Shivarajkumar will be stepping into the role of Deva in the film, a part unlike anything he’s done before. Produced by SN Reddy and Sudheer P under the Bhuvaneswari Pictures banner, the movie promises to showcase a never-before-seen side of the iconic actor. Joining Shivarajkumar on screen is Naveen Shankar, who will play the antagonist in their first-ever collaboration. Other notable cast members include Madhuswamy and several other actors, whose names will be announced soon.

The film’s music is being composed by Sam CS, known for his work on Vikram Vedha, RDX, and Kaithi. This marks his Kannada debut. The editing duties are being handled by Deepu S Kumar, while Ravi Santehaklu is serving as the film’s art director. DOP Mahendra Simha, who previously worked with Shivarajkumar on Tagaru and Ghost, returns as the cinematographer for this project.

Shivanna to Join Ram Charan’s RC 16

Shivarajkumar is set to juggle two major projects. He will also join the sets of Ram Charan’s upcoming film, tentatively titled RC 16. Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, the film is a sports drama, and Shivarajkumar will play a significant role in it.

News Credits: Cinema Express

Interval, according to the director, will be a refreshing mix of comedy, romance, and real-life struggles

In an industry where an interval is traditionally a mid-film break, an upcoming project is redefining this concept. Titled Interval, the film introduces a unique twist—becoming the first in Indian cinema to feature an interval within its trailer. This innovative move has sparked curiosity and anticipation ahead of its release on March 7.

Directed by Bharath Varsha, Interval features a story, screenplay, and dialogues penned by Sukhi. According to the director, the film offers a refreshing blend of comedy, romance, and real-life struggles. The film revolves around three engineering students — Ganesh S, Ganesh T, and Ganesh U (played by Shashiraj, Prajwal Kumar Gowda, and Sukhi), from a prestigious college in Bengaluru. According to the makers, these characters are set to provide the perfect balance of humour and heartfelt moments, which will resonate with audiences across all age groups.

Bharath Varsha expresses his excitement for the film, stating, “With the constant flow of cinema today, audiences often feel frustrated by the lack of true entertainment. We want to break that norm. In Interval, our goal is to keep viewers engaged every minute, delivering a complete cinematic experience. We are confident the film will surprise them.”

Interval is rooted in the everyday lives of middle-class men, blending humor with the protagonist’s misadventures. These lighthearted moments gradually build up to a pivotal turning point where responsibility takes center stage. Bharath Varsha explains, “The story doesn’t have larger-than-life fights or VFX. It’s about a man navigating life’s challenges and learning the value of responsibility. The gags he once used as a shield become both a blessing and a curse.”

Interval is a story that mirrors real life — one of growth, transformation, and the lessons we learn along the way. Sukhi elaborates, “The film speaks to people from all walks of life. It’s about the crossroads we all face, whether it’s an exam, moving away from home, or dealing with failure. Everyone comes to a point in life where they need a pause, and that’s what the ‘interval’ symbolises.”

The film features Sahana Aradhya and Charitra Rao as the female leads. On the technical team, Interval has music by Vikash Vasishta, cinematography by Rajkanth SK, and editing by Shashidhar Puttegowda.

News Credits: Cinema Express