Kaddipudi

My review: Kaddipudi

Duniya Soori has always made movies that are realistic albeit with commercial considerations fitting within its ambit. With his latest movie "Kaddipudi" he explores the life of a gangster who tries to turn a new leaf and his past comes back to haunt him. Though there have been many movies which have explored similar themes in the past the treatment that Soori has given to the plot is refreshing which makes the movie special. Stylishly made at the same time not compromising on the human element Soori has stuck to his main strength which is to explore the raw human emotions.

Engaging right from the start to the finish, movie moves at a fair clip. Strong screenplay that keeps the audience hooked to the storyline, intelligently written yet enjoyable dialogues, stylish making and superlative performance from the cast, all makes it a good cinema. 

 Though the story seems not that novel, characters, scenes and the dialogues are not that formulaic either. Except for the character of Daisy ( played by Aindrita Ray)  which looked forced in and out of place (though Soori tries to mend it by making the character's appearance in a later scene setting in motion a series of events that lead to significant events which becomes a turning point in the protagonist's life) all other characters seamlessly confluence into the narrative.

Shivraj Kumar has underplayed a great deal which has done wonders to the character he has played. He is too good in the titular role of Kaddipudi. Radhika Pandit lives up to her reputation of one of the most promising young actress in south India. Coming out with sterling performance as Uma who falls for the protagonist and whose character sketch goes through a full curve it is hard to imagine anyone else who could have done justice to that role. Aindrita Ray sizzles in the song sequence and one scene in which she appears. It is a child's play for Ananth Nag in a dignified role. Avinash and other co-stars have given adequate support.

V.Harikrishna's background score amply supports the narrative while songs also aid in the narrative flow. Technically it is one of the better movies that has come out of Kannada movie industry in the recent times. Krishna is the cinematographer.  His lighting especially in the Aindrita Ray's song sequence is fabulous.

On the whole, "Kaddipudi" is one of the best work from Soori, Shivraj Kumar, Radhika Pandit and cinematographer Krishna. Must watch for all Kannada movie connoisseurs.

Bottomline: Good cinema.

4/5