Yuddha Kaandam” is a 2022 Indian Tamil-language crime thriller directed by Anantharajan in his directorial debut. The film features Sriram Karthik and Krisha Kurup in lead roles and is notable for being shot entirely in a single take. The narrative centers on events unfolding in a police station during a single night.
Cast:
- Sriram Karthik as Ramalingam: A man who arrives at the Valmiki Nagar police station to file a missing person report for his girlfriend, Mithila.
- Krisha Kurup as Mithila: Ramalingam’s girlfriend, whose disappearance sets the plot in motion.
- Yog Japee as Inspector Langeswaran: A police officer at the station, portrayed as the antagonist.
- Bose Venkat as Encounter Inspector Karna: Another police officer involved in the unfolding events.
- Suresh Menon as Maarisan: A character contributing to the narrative’s complexity.
IMDb Rating:
As of now, “Yuddha Kaandam” holds an IMDb rating of 6.8 out of 10, based on user reviews. This rating reflects mixed audience reactions, with some appreciating the single-take execution and performances, while others critique aspects of the screenplay and pacing.
Budget and Box Office Success:
Specific details regarding the film’s budget and box office earnings have not been publicly disclosed. Given its limited theatrical release and niche appeal, “Yuddha Kaandam” did not make a significant impact at the box office. However, its selection for the 20th Chennai International Film Festival indicates a level of critical recognition.
Critical Reception:
Critics have offered varied perspectives on “Yuddha Kaandam.” The News Minute noted that while the film’s single-shot approach is ambitious, it is marred by clichés and underdeveloped characters. The review highlights that the acting appears overtly staged in several scenes, and the writing does not provide sufficient context for viewers to connect with the plot. Additionally, the use of background score is described as over-the-top, detracting from the intended emotional impact.
Production Insights:
The film was shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the crew adhering to safety protocols. The single-take format required extensive planning, with reports indicating that the team conducted around 50 rehearsals before the final shoot. The production involved 25 actors and 100 technicians, many of whom were newcomers to the industry. The title “Yuddha Kaandam” is inspired by the “Yuddha Kanda” chapter of the Hindu epic Ramayana, which details the battle between Rama and Ravana.
Conclusion:
“Yuddha Kaandam” stands as an ambitious project in Tamil cinema, primarily due to its single-take execution. While it has been recognized for its technical efforts, the film has faced criticism for its narrative structure and character development. For viewers interested in experimental filmmaking and the challenges of single-take productions, “Yuddha Kaandam” offers an intriguing case study.