📅 Released: July 25, 2025 | 🎥 Director: Mahesh Ravikumar
The Kannada crime drama Bandook, directed by Mahesh Ravikumar, has sparked conversation among critics and audiences alike for its unique approach to the genre. Not to be confused with the 2013 Hindi film of the same title, this Bandook attempts to blend psychological storytelling with gritty crime-thriller elements.
🧠 What Works: Psychological Depth & Strong Performances
Critics across the board have praised the film’s ambition to explore the “why” behind crime, rather than just the “who.” Through a series of murders, the story delves into the emotional and psychological toll of violence, particularly on young lives.
- Themes: Many critics have found the central idea thought-provoking — that sometimes, motives for murder can stem from complex, even noble, intentions.
- Performances:
- Gopalkrishna Deshpande and Balaji Manohar have been widely lauded for their layered portrayals.
- Partha K (as Mitra/Vishwamitra) also delivers a standout performance, marking a strong presence.
- The ensemble of young actors hold their own, adding authenticity to the narrative.
- Technical Brilliance:
- Cinematography by HY Rohith Kumaar sets a dark, atmospheric mood that elevates the story’s tension.
- Prasanna Kumar’s background score enhances both the emotional moments and the film’s more unsettling scenes.
Some critics noted the film’s non-linear narrative as compelling and refreshingly different from typical Kannada crime dramas.
⚠️ Where It Falters: Narrative Overload & Execution Issues
Despite its strengths, Bandook struggles with narrative bloat and uneven pacing.
- Too Much, Too Soon: Multiple characters, suspects, timelines, and subplots lead to a disjointed viewing experience for some.
- Excessive Violence: Graphic depictions of mutilation and bloodshed lose impact through repetition, according to several reviews.
- Editing & Dialogues: Sudden cuts, tonal shifts, and occasionally weak dialogues hamper the film’s emotional rhythm.
- Familiar Twists: Certain reveals feel borrowed from other thrillers, reducing their shock value.
- Forced Mass Appeal: Some “elevation moments” feel out of sync with the grounded tone of the film, likely added to cater to a broader audience.
⭐ Critical Ratings
- The Times of India: 3.5/5
- Deccan Herald: 3.5/5
- India Today: Mixed verdict — “worth a watch” but misfires in its final act
- The New Indian Express: 2.5/5
Overall, critics agree that Bandook is a bold and unique attempt, buoyed by strong performances and technical finesse, but its overambitious narrative slightly dulls its edge.
👏 Audience Reactions
While critics are split, audiences seem to be embracing the film.
- BookMyShow tags: “#GreatActing,” “#AwesomeStory,” “#Blockbuster,” and “#Wellmade” dominate user reactions.
- YouTube Public Reviews: Titles like “Don’t neglect this year’s best film Bandook just because there’s no big star” reflect strong word-of-mouth buzz.
The emotional core and psychological approach appear to resonate with viewers, especially those who appreciate content-driven cinema over star-driven spectacles.