INDIA: Kannada Film Industry, aka Sandalwood, has always been the powerhouse of unique and intriguing films. Kannada Cinema has held a strong grasp on viewers since its inception. Still, in recent years it has literally mastered a hit recipe of blending massy and cinematic style, leading to a box office tsunami.
Transcontinental Times picks the best Kannada films released this year that match the taste of cinephiles and the masses.
Best Kannada films released this year
5. Vikrant Rona
Baadshah Kichcha Sudeepa starrer Vikrant Rona is fifth on our list of best Sandalwood films. The Kannada film promises a joyride of action, thrill, and mystery. Anup Bhandari’s directorial style perfectly scatters the mystery elements that set a thrilling game in motion.
The story of the actioner film might feel cheesy and sluggish at some points, but it can be easily avoided.
Available on: ZEE5
4. James
Kannada Superstar Punneth Rajkumar’s James joins the fourth spot. It is deeply saddening that one of the prominent stars from Sandalwood is no more with us, he may have left this world, but his acting and powerful performances still remain in our hearts. Among all the notable titles from the late actor, James lands as one of Sandalwood’s finest and most power-packed films this year.
Chethan Kumar’s James brings a perfect fusion of action and drama that hooks you throughout every emotion depicted in the film. It’s a must-watch for those who are heavily looking for an intriguing and entertaining action film.
Available on: SonyLIV
3. 777 Charlie
Tollywood has its blockbuster RRR. Kannada Cinema also has its own RRR (Raj Shetty, Rishab Shetty, and Rakshit Shetty). Rakshit Shetty and Raj Shetty from the talented Sandalwood trio join the third spot. Kiranraj K’s directed 777 Charlie is one of the most emotional and uplifting films from Sandalwood released this year.
In addition to encasing a perfect blend of emotion, the Kannada film also promises a brilliant recipe for adventure, comedy, and drama. The feature perfectly handles a bond between a human and his pet that emerges as a heart-touching notion till the climax.
Available on: Voot
2. K.G.F: Chapter 2
Every best Kannada Films list is incomplete without mentioning Prashanth Neel’s box office behemoth K.G.F. Yash starrer K.G.F: Chapter 2 makes a rocking entry which is enough for us to teleport in the Neel’s engagingly penned universe.
The release of K.G.F: Chapter 1 elevated the name of Sandalwood to the next level, which roared on a Pan-Indian level. The arrival of the sequel added a satisfying story to this gangster drama film franchise. Let’s hope Prashanth Neel’s engaging actioner consistency continues in Prabhas’ starrer Salaar.
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
1. Kantara
K.G.F Chapter 2, without a doubt, would have been on the top spot, but the makers of the film delivered another gem from the Kannada film industry that broke their own record of bringing unique and intriguing films. Rishab Shetty’s directorial Kantara needs no introduction as, till now, it has captured the attention of every cinephile.
Those who have yet to witness Rishab Shetty’s divine blockbuster can watch the film on big screens. The Kannada film has embarked on a record-breaking spree creating new milestones at the box office.
Also Read: Rajinikanth Praises Kantara: Superstar Calls It ‘A Masterpiece in Indian Cinema’