Given that Chakravarthy is a gangster film with a tagline, ‘a combination of brain and crime’, the action-packed drama, filled with mafia bosses comes with family values involving an ensemble cast. Writer and director Chinthan has stitched a smart story which is quite appropriate to Darshan’s popularity. He has weaved a script that does not disrupt the star’s mass image, simultaneously succeeding in bringing out a message.
It is obvious that the director has studied some of the real life incidents connected to Bengaluru mafia. The journey of Shankar, a common man from Madikeri, who goes on becoming a don named Chakravarthy, while maintaining it as a secret from his wife, and the consequences he faces, is the crux of the film.
What makes Chakravarthy different from other gangster film is that the director has taken a common man’s perspective, while showcasing Bengaluru which was once known for notoriety, while keeping its image as a Pensioner’s City or Garden City. The director stresses on how it is not only the job of law but also of citizens to take action when there is something wrong.
But there are flaws, especially the second half, which gets a little lagging. Dinakar’s role seems to be a hit, but shortened. Also, the use of ample Hindi in the later part of the film might just be a put off since there are no subtitles.
Darshan succeeds in bringing out his character in three shades. With a image makeover, he comes out convincingly as a don as well as a common man. While he carries the angry man look, he balances it with his romantic image too. Deepa Sannidhi draws a lot of attention with her mature acting.
As first time on screen, playing antagonist, Dinakar seems to have followed the director’s instructions very well. Supporting cast including Kumar Bangarappa, Srujan Lokesh, Aditya, Sharath Lohitashwa, Kelly Dorje, Shivdhwaj, Yashas and Harish Rai, Sathya lend a great support. Arjun Janya’s songs go well with the narration and the background score is an added advantage to the overall picture.
While there is masala entertainment, which is expected from Darshan’s film, this one gives a strong message to take home.