After much anticipation and several delays, Dr. Shiva Rajkumar‘s highly awaited Kannada film Bhairathi Ranagal finally hit the big screens on November 15. Fans across Karnataka have been eagerly waiting to see Shivanna reprise his iconic role of Bhairathi Ranagal, a character he first brought to life in the 2017 superhit Mufti. Directed by Narthan, who also helmed Mufti, this film promises to deliver a deeper dive into the gritty backstory of this anti-hero figure. But does it live up to the legacy of Mufti? Let’s break it down.
Plot and Direction
The film picks up the story of Bhairathi Ranagal, a complex character with a morally gray persona, navigating the underworld and the violent world that surrounds him. While Mufti introduced the character in all his raw, unapologetic glory, Bhairathi Ranagal explores the origins and motivations that have shaped him into the man he is. The director, Narthan, takes a deeper plunge into the psyche of Bhairathi, unearthing past traumas and challenges that provide a context for his fierce nature.
While the concept is compelling, some viewers may find the plot a bit slow at times. The film delves into the emotional backstory, which, although adds depth, occasionally detracts from the high-octane action and suspense that made Mufti so engaging.
Performance of Dr. Shiva Rajkumar
As expected, Shiva Rajkumar delivers an electrifying performance, embodying the character of Bhairathi Ranagal with unmatched intensity. His portrayal of the anti-hero is both compelling and nuanced, showing vulnerability beneath the tough exterior. His dialogue delivery and the emotions he brings to his role are the heart and soul of the film, driving its most gripping moments. Shivanna’s screen presence is magnetic, and his commitment to the character is evident in every scene.
However, while his performance is stellar, it does feel like Mufti had a more immediate impact because of the character’s raw introduction. In Bhairathi Ranagal, there are moments when his performance is overshadowed by the storytelling itself, particularly when the narrative focuses too heavily on the backstory.
Supporting Cast and Cinematography
The supporting cast does a commendable job, with each actor adding significant layers to the storyline. However, the film’s pacing sometimes leaves little room for secondary characters to fully shine. The action sequences are gripping, and the cinematography does justice to the dark, intense atmosphere that Bhairathi Ranagal tries to create. The visuals enhance the gritty, rough aesthetic of the underworld, and the sets transport the audience into a world of power struggles, violence, and betrayal.
Music and Background Score
The music and background score complement the film’s intense tone, adding to the overall mood. While the soundtrack doesn’t stand out in the same way as the ones from Mufti, it still serves its purpose in enhancing key emotional moments.
Final Verdict
Bhairathi Ranagal is a film that rewards fans of Dr. Shiva Rajkumar and those who enjoyed Mufti. The character of Bhairathi Ranagal is compelling, and Shiva Rajkumar’s portrayal once again proves why he remains a legendary figure in Kannada cinema. However, the film doesn’t quite capture the same intensity and magic that Mufti did. The slow pacing and focus on backstory might not appeal to all viewers, especially those looking for the fast-paced action and suspense that made the original film so captivating.
That said, Bhairathi Ranagal is still a solid entry in the genre, offering a deeper understanding of a character that’s become iconic in Kannada cinema. If you loved Mufti, you’ll appreciate this film’s attempt to explore Bhairathi Ranagal’s origins. Was it worth the wait? For fans of Shivanna, absolutely. For those new to the franchise, it may take a little longer to get invested.
