‘Kaantha’ Movie Review
Movie: Kaantha
Release Date: 14 November 2025
CBFC Rating: UA
Run-time: 2h 43m
Starring: Dulquer Salmaan, Samuthirakani, Bhagyashri Borse & Rana Daggubati…Etc.
Production House – Spirit Media, Wayfarer Films
DOP – Dani Sanchez Lopez
Music: Jhanu Chanter
BGM: Jakes Bejoy
Editor – Llewellyn Anthony Gonsalvez
Produced – Rana Daggubati, Dulquer Salmaan, Prashanth Potluri, Jom Varghese
Written & Directed – Selvamani Selvaraj
Kaantha, directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, is a Tamil – Telugu film starring Dulquer Salmaan, Samuthirakani, Rana Daggubati, and Bhagyashri Borse. It is jointly produced by Dulquer Salman and Rana Daggubati. Kaantha released simultaneously in Telugu and Tamil on 14th November. Let’s check-out the review.
Plot
The movie revolves around the ego clashes between a successful actor and his mentor director, exploring the darker side of the film industry. The story follows Ayya (Samuthirakani), a talented director who transforms T.K. Mahadevan (Dulquer Salmaan) into a star. Years later, their relationship sours, but they reunite for Ayya’s dream project, Shaantha. As the film’s production unfolds, tensions rise, and a murder occurs on set, leading to a complex investigation.
Performances
Dulquer Salmaan delivers a stellar performance, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He brings a controlled intensity to his role, and his chemistry with Samuthirakani is palpable. Bhagyashri Borse shines as Raja Kumari, showcasing her natural talent and expressive presence. Rana Daggubati adds moderate relief with his sarcastic delivery. He looks apt in cop role.
Highlights
Dulquer, Rana
Cinematography
Engaging Narrative
Production Design
Drawbacks
Slow Pacing
Predictable At Times
Analysis
Kaantha is a well crafted film with a strong narrative and impressive performances. The movie’s exploration of the darker side of the film industry is thought provoking and engaging. While the pacing can be slow at times, the film’s emotional core and strong performances make it worth watching.
Kaantha is a must watch for fans of character-driven dramas and those interested in exploring the complexities of the film industry. With its strong performances and thought provoking narrative, Kaantha is a film that will linger in your thoughts long after the credits roll.
The cinematography by Dani Sanchez Lopez is impressive, capturing the essence of the 1950s with its color palette and camera angles. The background score by Jakes Bejoy is equally impressive, elevating the emotional impact of key scenes. The film’s editing by Llewellyn Anthony Gonsalves could be tighter, with some scenes feeling repetitive. However, this is a minor quibble in an otherwise well crafted film.
Overall, Kaantha is a film that deserves to be watched and appreciated. With its strong performances, engaging narrative, and impressive cinematography, it’s a film that will appeal to fans of character driven dramas.
Rating: 3.5/5
Bottom-line: Stellar Performances In Stunning Narrative






