Killing Veerappan

This story traces the different attempts of an Special Task Force (STF) police officer and his team to kill Veerappan. We also get to see different sides of Veerappan's character too, albeit in just flashes.

Given the film's subject and the title, it isn't difficult to figure out what the team has set out to achieve. But, unlike the other films thus far, maverick filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has chosen a rather guerrilla approach to his tale, which is narrated through the eyes of an unnamed character, who is an STF cop.
What is commendable is that this film hasn't set forth being a biopic of either the cop or the slain brigand. Instead, the story gives a perspective from the cops' side on how nabbing Veerappan was such a gargantuan task. With this, RGV has cleverly weaved in the hatred that many people, especially in Karnataka, have because Veerappan had kidnapped the matinee idol Rajkumar.

This film begins on a violent note - Veerappan shows no mercy when it comes to killing police officers, especially those on the lookout for him. This premise shows how the policemen are ready to forget rationality and let the emotions come in the way, when dealing with a case like this. The multiple covert operations and disguises keep one hooked.

There are interesting characters and characterizations. One such is of Shriya, based on the real-life layperson who was involved in the operation to nab Veerappan. Even the portrayal of Veerappan's love story with Muthulakshmi makes for an interesting bit. The scene of him proposing to Muthulakshmi, particularly, defines their traits.
Shot extensively in the forests, the film's interesting cinematography and the background complement each other. While it may seen a tad lengthy, the film provides yet another insight into the life of not just Veerappan but also the STF officers. The character portrayed by Rajesh Nataranga, for instance, shows how these vengeful officers can have everyday problems too.

In fact, the performances enhance the sum total of the film. Shivarajkumar and Sandeep Bhardwaj lead the way. Though, Parul Yadav, in her role, stands equally tall and shows how she's emerging as one of the most promising talent in Sandalwood to watch out for. Performances of Rajesh and Yajna Shetty impress too.
Should you watch the film? Yes, if you're open to watch another perspective in this tale that never ceases to impress filmmakers. Like Killing Veerappan's filmmaker RGV, the film, too, is unapologetic and has a character of its own. While some could point out scenes without dialogues may seem unwarranted, the director has conveyed a lot through facial expressions and body language rather than jingoistic dialogues.