Ravi Srivatsa's Kannada film, Maadesha, is quite different from the other recent gangster films. While most of those portrayed the protagonist as a larger than life character, Srivatsa shows the grey sides of an ambitious youngster, who takes to crime.

The director has been able to elicit good performances from his cast. The execution is stylish as well. Srivatsa is adequately backed by cameraman Seetharam's fantastic work. But it must be said that Srivatsa has not been able to come out of the set commercial pattern, and adds too many fight sequences.

The director takes up the role of the narrator himself, and tells us about the life and times of Maadesha.

Maadesha starts on a realistic note with a violent shootout in the city after a forcible real estate acquisition. But as the story moves on, realism is pushed behind and crime takes precedence.

Maadesha is born to poor parents in the temple town of Nanjangud. The life of his family revolves around the temple activities. As a young man, Maadesha kills a person, who denigrates his mother. After spending time in a juvenile school, he moves to Bangalore. He starts working in a petrol pump where he is forced to fight some underworld hirelings. Soon, his link in the underworld grows, and becomes a don.

Shivaraj Kumar looks stunning. He shows great energy in the fight sequences. His dialogues are well written. Ravi Belagere makes a good impact as a villain. But it is artistes like Muni, Harish Rai, Kote, Padmaja Rao and Praveen, who have done exceptional work.

Bullet Prakash's comedy sequences in the film look out of place.

Mano Murthy has composed music for an action film for the first time. His songs have variety, but they are not exceptional. The background score by Sadhu Kokila is good.

Maadesha is an enjoyable film for Shivraj Kumar fans.

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