Why You Should Watch Kantara: Chapter 1 and Where to Catch It in Dubai!

Having just experienced this cinematic marvel this weekend, I'm still processing the sheer emotional and spiritual intensity that is Kantara: Chapter 1. As someone who writes extensively about entertainment in Dubai and the UAE, I can confidently say this prequel to the 2022 blockbuster isn't just a movie—it's a transcendental journey that redefines what Indian cinema can achieve.

A Masterclass in Storytelling and Mythology

Set centuries before the events of the original Kantara, this prequel takes us back to the Kadamba dynasty era (circa 300-400 CE) in coastal Karnataka. The story follows Berme(Rishab Shetty), a fierce warrior and Naga Sadhu who becomes the bridge between mortals and the divine. What struck me most was how writer-director Rishab Shetty weaves together themes of faith, power, tribal resistance, and divine justice into a cohesive narrative that feels both ancient and urgently contemporary.

The central conflict emerges when King Kulashekara (Gulshan Devaiah) attempts to annex the sacred forest of Kantara, leading to an epic clash between the tribal community and the kingdom. But this isn't just about territorial disputes—it's a profound exploration of man's relationship with nature and the divine origins of the Bhuta Kola ritual.

Performances That Touch the Divine

Rishab Shetty delivers what can only be described as a career-defining performance. If his National Award-winning portrayal of Shiva in the original Kantara was raw and primal, his Berme is layered with complexity—torn between worldly struggles and divine calling. The transformation sequences where he channels the spirit of Guliga are absolutely mesmerizing and genuinely spine-tingling.

Rukmini Vasanth emerges as the film's surprise package as Princess Kanakavathi. Rather than being relegated to a typical love interest role, her character gains significant prominence as the film progresses, particularly in the climactic sequences where her true motivations are revealed. Her performance brings both grace and unexpected depth to the narrative.

Gulshan Devaiah embodies menace perfectly as the arrogant King Kulashekara, while Jayarambrings gravitas to his role as the weary King Rajashekara. The supporting cast, including comic relief from Prakash Tumminad and others, maintains the film's authentic regional flavor without breaking its mythological spell.

Technical Brilliance That Elevates the Experience

Cinematography

Arvind S. Kashyap's cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking. Every frame feels meticulously crafted like a painting in motion, with an earthy palette of deep greens, warm ambers, and fiery reds that perfectly capture the essence of ancient Karnataka. His use of natural light, mist, and shadow creates a haunting atmosphere that enhances the mystical tone throughout the 2 hour 48-minute runtime.

The visual contrast between the raw, rooted world of Kantara and the extravagant royal courts is masterfully executed. Kashyap's camera work perfectly complements the themes—steady and meditative during spiritual moments, fluid and chaotic during battle sequences.

Visual Effects and Production Design

What impressed me most was how the VFX team used technology as a tool rather than a crutch. The visual effects enhance divine manifestations and mystical moments without overshadowing the film's organic realism. The animal sequences, particularly those featuring tigers, are spellbinding and feel completely authentic.

The production design recreates ancient landscapes with astonishing detail—from temple architecture to royal courts and sacred groves. Every set feels lived-in and historically grounded, transporting you completely to the Kadamba era.

Score and Sound Design

B. Ajaneesh Loknath has created what can only be called the soul of the film. Drawing heavily from traditional coastal instruments, chants, and tribal rhythms, his score seamlessly blends with the narrative's emotional and spiritual beats. The background music builds intensity during rituals, evokes reverence during divine moments, and explodes with energy during combat sequences.

The sound design creates an immersive soundscape where rustling forests, Bhuta Kola chants, and the roar of war transport you directly into Kantara's world. Songs like "Brahmakalasha" and "Rebel" have already become cultural phenomena, with the latter featuring Diljit Dosanjh adding to the pre-release buzz.

Themes That Resonate Beyond Entertainment

What elevates Kantara: Chapter 1 beyond typical commercial cinema is its exploration of tribal resistance against oppression. The film serves as a meditation on how dominant cultures historically absorb and appropriate subaltern faiths, erasing their origins. When Berme brings the bhoota kola stones to the Shiva temple being built in Bangara, they're placed outside the sanctum—a powerful visual metaphor that mirrors how Theyyam deities of marginalized communities are still kept outside main temple compounds today.

The environmental themes are equally compelling. The conflict begins with a hunt—but while forest folk hunt for survival, the king hunts for pleasure. This difference in intent sets off the chain of events that defines the entire narrative, making it a prescient commentary on exploitation versus stewardship of nature.

A Few Minor Weaknesses

Despite its overwhelming strengths, the film isn't without minor shortcomings. The first 40-45 minutes can feel heavy with exposition as Shetty patiently builds the world and establishes the political backdrop. While this slow burn adds authenticity, some viewers might find it testing their patience before the narrative gains momentum.

For audiences unfamiliar with coastal Karnataka's traditions, the dense spiritual symbolism and terminology around concepts like Daiva and Bhuta Kola might occasionally feel overwhelming. However, the film's visual storytelling is so compelling that you're swept along regardless.

Where to Watch in Dubai

The good news for Dubai movie lovers is that Kantara: Chapter 1 is playing across all major cinema chains in the emirate:

VOX Cinemas has the film running at multiple locations including Dubai Mall, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, Mall of the Emirates, and Wafi Mall, with both standard and premium format options.

Reel Cinemas is screening it at Dubai Mall (including Platinum Suites), Dubai Marina Mall, and The Springs Souk.

Novo Cinemas has showtimes across their UAE locations including Sahara Centre, Mega Mall, Dragon Mart, and Manar Mall.

Cinepolis and other chains like Star Cinemas and Royal Cinemas are also showing the film in multiple languages.

The film is available in Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam, so you can choose your preferred language. Some locations are even offering 4DX experiences for those wanting the full immersive treatment.

Final Verdict

Kantara: Chapter 1 is that rare cinematic achievement that operates on multiple levels—as a rousing action spectacle, a profound spiritual journey, and a culturally significant work of art. It's a film that demands to be experienced on the big screen, where Kashyap's cinematography and Loknath's score can work their full magic.

While it requires patience during its deliberate first act, the rewards are immense. The interval block and extended climax sequences are pure cinematic euphoria that will leave you emotionally drained and spiritually elevated. This isn't just entertainment—it's a cultural experience that connects you to ancient traditions while delivering cutting-edge filmmaking.

With the film already grossing over ₹200 crore worldwide in its opening weekend, audiences everywhere are recognizing what I experienced this weekend: Kantara: Chapter 1 isn't just a sequel or prequel—it's a landmark achievement in Indian cinema that deserves to be celebrated.

Book your tickets now and prepare for a cinematic journey that will stay with you long after you leave the theater. This is exactly the kind of bold, rooted storytelling that Indian cinema needs more of, and Dubai's diverse audience will undoubtedly appreciate its universal themes wrapped in distinctly local flavors.

Rating: 4/5 - A visual and spiritual epic that succeeds in expanding the Kantara universe while delivering an emotionally satisfying standalone experience.