Choorikatte

Churikatte is a hamlet in Karnataka's heartland, which is one of the epicentres for the timber mafia. When an aspiring policeman decides to take on the nexus and help the local cops, there is an interesting turn of events.

Crime thrillers are a rare genre in Kannada. Most of the films that pose as crime thrillers are often glorified vehicles of a hero that are catered to the masses. This film might have a few commercial elements, but the cinema noir treatment to the subject wins over these compromises and Churikatte stands taller.

The film is about the hamlet Churikatte. The most appealing thing is the rather metaphysical beginning to the film. Unlike a template-based entertainer, this film begins with a scene that features the antagonist in a rather tricky position, and it sets the tone for the film. The first half sets the tone for the second by introducing the different characters. There is an interesting twist around the interval, which features a stolen police gun, and what follows is an interesting drama.

One of the biggest victories for this film lies in its realistic treatment of the story and people. Agreed, there are some commercial elements like a few fights, but those don't overpower the narrative. At its heart, Churikatte still remains a crime thriller, which showcases how ruthless the timber mafia can be.

The film has a carefully selected cast, and each member of the ensemble delivers his or her best. But special mention must be made to Balaji Manohar and Achyuth Kumar, both of who are a delight to watch. Praveen Tej and Prerana Kambar as the young lovers also impress.

The film has an excellent interval block and a neatly poised second half. While the twists in the second half are entertaining, one wonders if it drags on a little towards the climax for the sake of commercial elements. But these are just little and negligible. Watch Churikatte it provides a good noir subject in Kannada after a while.