Rating: 3 Stars
By: Aldrin Vaz
Sapta Sagaradaache Ello-Side B, starring Rakshit Shetty, Rukmini Vasanth, and Chaithra J Achar, is an engaging romantic revenge drama that seamlessly continues from Side A. It’s a must-watch film for Side A fans. However, don’t expect an emotionally charged romantic rollercoaster like Side A. It doesn’t touch your heart or mesmerize you in the same way like Side A did, but it nevertheless keeps you engaged. The film has an ample dose of violence and hard-hitting scenes. This medium-paced film is more of a mass film with a perfect blend of Side A emotions and jail story.
The film begins with Manu being released from jail after 10 years and trying to lead a normal life. He meets Surabhi (Chaithra J Achar), a sex worker, and gradually develops a bond with her, although he is unable to move on from Priya’s memories. Until the interval, the film follows expected lines, with Manu continuously stalking Priya, who is now married and has a child. There are some lighter moments in between.
Post-interval, the film transforms into more of a massy revenge drama with violence. The film reaches a point where the climax could have been a disaster, but ace director Hemanth Rao excellently concludes the film, although some may not like the ending.
Rakshit Shetty is in terrific form in Side B. He takes on a challenging role that is entirely different from Side A. As a tough, broken lover, he delivers a power-packed performance. Rukmini Vasanth, as a lower-middle-class married lady, has acted very well yet again. However, in Side B, it’s Chaithra J Achar who steals the show as a sex worker with an emotional bond with Rakshit Shetty.
Gopal Krishna Deshpande, as Manu’s friend, is excellent. Achuyth Kumar and all other character actors have performed well. The music by Charan Raj is excellent, but it doesn’t overpower the proceedings like it did in Side A, mostly because of the powerful performances.
Once again, excellent direction by Hemanth Rao and spectacular cinematography by Avaitha Gurumurthy.
Overall, a good continuation of Side A. It has fewer heart-touching scenes compared to Side A but includes more mass elements with the signature Hemanth Rao touch.
