Review of ‘Kenda’ Film: An Intriguing Exploration of Bengaluru’s Underworld with a Touch of Absurdity

While ‘Kenda’ aims high thematically, it encounters obstacles. The storyline flows well but might be slightly intricate for those used to more traditional storytelling methods.

Sahadev Kelvadi’s ‘Kenda’ delves into Bengaluru’s chaotic underbelly during the late 90s and early 2000s, using an absurdist perspective to critique societal decay and political corruption. At its heart is Keshava, portrayed by Bharath, whose evolution from a factory worker to a criminal underworld figure mirrors broader societal breakdowns. The narrative immerses viewers in period-specific details and cultural nods, capturing the essence of the era through visuals and references like Debasis Mohanty and Urmila Matondkar.

A pivotal scene in the film showcases Keshava and a child finding solace in cricket, encapsulating the narrative’s essence. While visually striking, the film’s stylistic choices occasionally overshadow its substantive plot. It boldly addresses political corruption and societal fractures, honing in on the disillusionment felt by marginalized youth. The absurdist approach vividly portrays urban turmoil and moral dilemmas faced by individuals within corrupt systems.

Despite its thematic depth, ‘Kenda’ encounters hurdles. The storyline is cohesive but may prove overly intricate for audiences accustomed to more conventional narratives. Sahadev’s absurdist style prioritizes social commentary over viewer engagement, potentially alienating those who prefer straightforward storytelling. This thematic richness risks overshadowing character development, a vital component of compelling cinema.

The depiction of media influence, particularly through Narasimha Shastry (played by Vinod Ravindran), highlights power dynamics and societal influences, weaving in references to verses from the Bhagavad Gita. However, the film occasionally veers into heavy-handed treatment of these themes, reducing nuanced exploration to overt allegory. It captures the rise of electronic media while contrasting it with contemporary sensationalism, reflecting on significant issues like farmers’ protests.

Kenda really pulls you into its world visually, giving you a real feel for the time it’s set in and bringing out those cultural details that make it all the more authentic. The actors, especially Bharath as Keshava, do a great job showing the inner struggles and outside pressures the characters face. The supporting cast adds layers to Keshava’s story, making the journey on screen even more engaging.

The movie dives deep into themes of crime, politics, and personal values in the midst of a decaying urban landscape. Its use of absurdism gives it a unique angle, and its bold take on societal problems is praiseworthy. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its execution, it definitely offers a lot to ponder over for viewers looking for something that challenges the mind.

Kenda

Director: Sahadev Kelvadi

Cast: Bharath B V, Rekha Kudligi, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Deepti Nagendra, Pranav, and Vinod Ravindran

Rating: 3/5