Bell Bottom

Sandalwood sees both Rishab Shetty and Jayathirtha as names that are associated with films that promise good content. So, when the duo teamed up for a film, the expectations were obviously higher. Bell Bottom is a crime thriller with a comical undertone that is set in the 80s. And the final product entertains, which serves the purpose.

The story is about how Divakara, a detective at heart, ends up taking on the biggest case in his area. The case makes him meet multiple characters, which include some quirky criminals, and he even finds love in the gutsy and playful Kusuma, who is a bootlegger selling hooch in the area. With so many characters that prove to be suspects and a case that seems impossible to solve at times, Divakara has a lot to deal with.

The retro feel to the film, right from the visuals, background score and costumes is a highlight. The dialogues, with relevant references of pop events and idols around that era, are a treat too. The casting is spot on. Rishab leads the pack with a performance that is noteworthy. Hariprriya delivers yet another solid act, showing why she is considered as one of the most versatile actresses around right now. Pramod Shetty, PD Sathish Chandra and Sujay Shastry also stand out.

Bell Bottom is one of the finer films to have hit the screens lately. The film is entertaining, no doubt. But what is more commendable is the fact that it has those little nuances that ensure the imagery to the time that the film is set in remain intact. Bell Bottom is worth that weekend trip to the cinema halls for its laughs and clever writing.