• Chetan Nadiger
Film: S/O Muthanna
Producer: Purathana Films
Director: Srikanth Hunsur
Starring: Rangayana Raghu, Pranam Devaraj, Kushee Ravi, Sudha Belawadi, Suchendra Prasad, Girish Shivanna and others
A lot of mother sentiment films have been made in Sandalwood in the past few years. For a change, director Srikanth Hunsur in his first attempt has tried to tell the value of the father with deep emotional resonance.
‘S/O Muthanna’ is the story of Shivu (Pranam Devaraj) and his father Muthanna (Rangayana Raghu), a former army major whom Shivu lovingly refers to as Captain. They share a cordial relationship. Shivu meets Dr Sakshi (Kushee Ravi) during her visit to his residence and is drawn to her. Things take a surprising turn when Muthanna jokingly intervenes as a matchmaker, causing tension between Shivu and Sakshi. In a fit of anger, Shivu walks out of Muthanna’s anger. What happens next? Will the split be repaired forms the crux of the film.
‘S/O Muthanna’ is not just a father-son sentiment film. It is the story of guilt. Most people feel guilty when they discover the genuine worth of someone or a relationship only after it has been lost. Too frequently, we forget that life is short and take for granted the individuals who are most important to us. ‘S/O Muthanna’ uses the relationship between a father and son to examine this universal feeling.
In spite of a good thought, the film falls short because of a poor screenplay. Director Srikanth Hunsur has narrated the story calmly with no urgency and in full leisure. The first half has nothing much to offer. In fact, the first half has been wasted a lot with lousy comedy between Rangayana Raghu and Giri Shivanna. The film comes to track only in the second half of the film. Though there are a few surprises and some intense scenes, the lengthy conversations sometimes drag the action down, making certain scenes appear slow.
The highlight of the film is the performances of the lead actors and the technical aspects. Rangayana Raghu gives a powerful performance as Muthanna. His blend of playfulness and seriousness in the character is a treat to watch. Pranam Devaraj shows potential as an actor to watch out for, with his good dancing skills. Kushee Ravi adds charm to the film. Suchendra Prasad and Sudha Belawadi’s cameos add value to the film.
The movie is technically sound. The majesty of Kashi and the closeness of family moments are finely captured by cinematographer Skating Krishna. Sachin Basur’s melodious songs enhance the film.
‘S/O Muthanna’ is an emotional family drama which highlights the value of parents in old age and the guilt of unsaid love. Watch it if you like emotional films.
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