Capturing realism is an art and with Kendasampige — Girimari Case Part II, written by Surendranath (Suri) seems to prove that he is a master filmmaker with the talent to transform a simple script into a realistic thriller. A refreshing 99 minute film, Kendasampige strips away the regular pretentiousness by offering a real look at real people. An episodic story, the film mixes young love and poignancy with excellent results as it journeys through some classic sequences never seen before on screen.
The story revolves around Ravindra (Vikky) who works in the office of Gowri Shetty’s (Manvitha Harish) mother Shakuntala Shetty’s (Chandrika’s) as an attendant. A circumstance arises and Gowri gets attracted to Ravindra who reciprocates. The twist comes when Ravindra is booked in a drug related case. He escapes jail and while on the run, informs Gowri. She not only helps Ravindra with money but also accompanies him through the journey from city to city for seven days. The truth unfolds as they are chased by the police.
Why does Ravindra get stuck in the case and why does Gowri still help him, while dreading going back home and ultimately what is the fate of their love is shown realistically in a taut screenplay.
Suri’s direction is incisive while maintaining a brisk pace. It is evident that the director has done his research well on each character. He is marvellously supported by cinematographer Sathya Hegde’s fluid camerawork with penetrating close-ups of the hunted pair.
Suri has given his new actors a free hand, allowing them to act naturally. Manivtha comes across as both confident in her character, which has been portrayed to perfection. She shines in the scene when she finds courage within to openly resist an evil system. Vicky contributes to the whole cinematic celebration as a local boy and delivers an honest performance.
Supporting actors Prakash Belawadi, Chandrika, Prashanth Siddi Rajesh Nataranga among others have played their part to perfection. The songs and the soundtrack by V Harikrishna are equally convincing and have considerable depth with pleasing lyrics by Jayanth Kaikini and Yogaraj Bhat
A Suri masterpiece, Kendasampige is a delightful watch and we look forward to the next in the series.