Kannada cinema industry is getting the eight years old Telugu film `Simhadri' with some changes in `Kanteerava'. It is apt for the image of action hero Vijay in Kannada. Jr NTR, Ankitha and Bhumika Chawla starred in the Telugu version in 2003 that was directed by Raja Mouli.
What is new in this remake for the Kannada audience? The new tool the protagonist carries in his hand is unique. In the last eight years many Kannada films have carried some of the scenes and obviously the discerning cinema lover is not having anything interesting. The lengthy action scenes without an iota of logic are a big bore indeed. The hero coming out from the ICU and fighting against opponent gang is difficult to digest.
Kanteerava (Vijay) an orphan is loyal to his boss Ramachandrappa (Srinivasamurthy). He believes in the principles of his boss. He shoots down the son in law of his boss in a very stressing situation. Shocked with this Indra (Shuba Punja) loses her memory. Kanteerava is giving a comfortable living to Indra. It is with this Indra the suspicion arises for the villagers. But in a bloody action scene Kanteerava receives a lethal blow from Indra.
Now Indra is back with memory she has lost and it is down memory lane. Kanteerava in Kerala as Singumalai is the darling of masses. That is when he comes to reunite the daughter of his boss. Bala Sab and Bala Nair cruel brothers are feared by the people. Kanteerava takes on the big challenge and kills Bala Nair when he kills daughter of his boss in the day light. Further trouble puts Bala Sab behind the bars. Kanteerava receives the respect of the people and hailed as `Singumalai'.
After the flash back it is Singumalai alias Kanteerava in the hospital receiving medical attention. He comes out of death bed and finish off the Bala Sab who escapes from the prison to kill Singumalai. It is a solid action film for Vijay. In stunts he is the king. He has done some dangerous stunts in the direction of Thriller Manju. The dialogues for Vijay are very good. In romance with two heroines Rishika and Shuba Punja has been extremely romantic.
Rishika Singh hailing from the popular filmy family of ace director SV Rajendra Singh Babu is allergic to costumes it seems. The ant on her body and Vijay applying the `Honey' is a midnight scene. Shuba Punja looks rotund but her innocence is convincing.
Srinivasamurthy the senior character artist is apt. Mukesh Rishi, Rahul Dev shout on the silver screen and receive blows. Mandya Ramesh and Sadhu Kokila comedy is a treat indeed.
Dasari Seenu capturing of action scenes is stunning. Chakri has not given any memorable tune.
Scoring 6/10
