“Kenda,” a crime and political thriller by Sahadev Kelvadi, stands out as one of the most realistic films in its genre in recent times. While similar films have been made before, “Kenda” feels almost like a documentary of the crime world from the late 90s to early 2000s. Produced by Sahadev Kelvadi and co-produced by Roopa Rao, the director of the critically acclaimed “Gantumoote,” the film has strong backing.
The story begins with the protagonist, Keshava (played by BV Bharath), working in a factory devoid of safety measures. He witnesses a colleague lose his arm in an accident and, simultaneously, hears a speech by Narasimha Shastry (Vinod Ravindran), a politically inclined local newspaper editor. Inspired by Shastry’s words, Keshava joins his camp, only to find himself entangled in a web of crime and the politics behind orchestrating news of riots.
While many films showcase the gory side of the criminal world, “Kenda” stands out by presenting crime and political happenings in the most subtle yet impactful manner. The film realistically depicts the various ways a person can become trapped in a corrupt system, highlighting how young people can be misled in their pursuit of change or quick money. The film’s presentation, from locations to costumes, is so realistic and minimalistic that it feels authentically crafted.
“Kenda” is filled with elements that capture the viewer’s attention. From Keshava’s home, where his mother resorts to wearing old canvas shoes due to her torn slippers, to his drunken father with strong political opinions, the film paints a vivid picture of their world. Keshava’s neighborhood is equally engaging, featuring a kid who plays cricket with him and whom Keshava tries to guide despite being directionless himself. The film also includes a sub-story of a nearby brothel, where a trans woman shares philosophical insights, adding complexity to the narrative.
Though set in a past era, “Kenda” remains relevant with its depiction of the crime world, particularly in showing how news can be manipulated for TRPs and exclusive headlines. The film explores the lengths to which both established and emerging media platforms will go to achieve sensational coverage. The only moments where the film feels slightly off-track are during the philosophical dialogues, whether from Narasimha Shastry or the sex worker, which can sometimes feel a bit out of place.
The actors deliver commendable performances, with BV Bharath perfectly embodying Keshava, an everyman we might encounter in daily life. The strong supporting cast, including Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Vinod Ravindran, Rekha Kudligi, Pranav Sridhar, Deepti Nagendra, and others, further enhances the film’s authenticity. A standout aspect of the film, apart from its minimalist presentation, is the music by Ritwik Kaikini, which captivates the audience throughout.
“Kenda” is a uniquely crafted film that sets new standards for realistic crime-political thrillers, making it a must-watch in theaters near you.
