– Chetan Nadiger
Film: Back Bencherz
Producer: Ramya Rajashekhar
Director: Rajashekhar
Starring: Ranjan, Jathin Aryan, Akash MP, Shashank Simha, Suchendra Prasad, Arvind Kuplikar, Manya Gowda, Kumkum H, Anusha Suresh and others
‘Kirik Party’ is a source of inspiration to many college and youth centred movies in the recent times. A lot of films have been released to regenerate the memories of the audience about their college days and this genre has a lot of takers, particularly the youth. ‘Back Bencherz’ is also one of them.
As the title itself suggests ‘Back Bencherz’ is a group of friends from the final year batch of a reputed college. The story revolves around a group of friends including Arya, Kush, Vikky and Naveen who are very studious and does not indulge in any other activities. The class have a few backbenchers who are trouble makers and does a lot of mischief in the college. In one incident, when the backbenchers are caught red handed, the principal switches their seating order and makes them sit in the front bench, while shifting the studious to the back bench. From then on, their lives changes. What happens next forms the crux of the film.
‘Back Bencherz’ is a typical college template film that acts a reminder for everyone who missed out their memories during their college days. Director Rajashekhar does not preach anything in specific, but tries to make the audience understand what is important in life. In fact, there is no particular story in the film, but a few incidents. While some are good and enjoyable, some are mindless.
The intention of the film team is very clear, to entertain the audience for two hours. Though the duration is of just 2 hours and 10 minutes, it drags on. Serious filmgoers may not like the film, but the film can be watched by friends together to revisit the golden days at college. The film is neither disappointing, yet not fully satisfying also.
The film introduces a lot of fresh talents to the Kannada film industry. All of them have done their bit. Suchendra Prasad is seen in a different kind of role and the actor has done his best. Aravind Kuplikar has also done a decent job. The rest of the star cast have given adequate support.
One of the highlights of the film is the music by Nakul Abhayankar and cinematography by Manohar Joshi. Editing is also good. A couple of songs gel with the college mood.
The film is not only for back benchers, but also for every one who has fond memories of their college days.
