Anjadhiru (remake of Mysskin's Tamil film Anjathe) directed by debutant Janardhan and produced by veteran actor Krishnegowda is a stylishly executed Kannada film with a high degree of engaging moments. Every second in the second half is filled with suspense and thrills.
Excellent direction, superb photography by Sundaranath Suvarna and striking background music are the high points of the film which has been able to retain the vigour and substance of the original.
The only negative factor is that the director has not been able to extract sound performances from Prashanth and Shubha.
Anjadhiru revolves around the trusted friendship of Sathya Murthy and Krupa which turns sour after change of fortunes in their life. Sathya is secretly in love with Krupa's sister Uththara. Krupa starts hating Sathya thinking that he has robbed his chance of becoming a police officer by using dirty tricks. Sathya is unable to prove his innocence to his friend and the gap gets widened.
In a parallel track, a gang of kidnappers led by a rapist Daya let loose a series of terrorising kidnappings in the city. Sathya is also a part of the investigations. The misunderstanding between the two friends and the kidnapping saga is superbly entwined in the story which leads to a gripping twenty odd minutes of climax.
The strength of Anjadhiru is that it does not drag even for a moment despite its length. The film's emotional moments leave a great impact. The trauma faced by the parents of the kidnapped girl is well showcased in the film.
It is the veterans who take the cake in the acting department. Dwarakish proves his versatile talent through the character of Loki in the film. Aadi Lokesh who had some indifferent roles in recent films has come out best in the role of Daya. Newcomer Muralidhar shines in the role of Krupa which has negative shades. Sreenivasa Murthy, Padmaja Rao and Krishne Gowda also shine.
Anjadhiru maybe a remake, but it a well-made one. For those who have not seen the original, it is a great engrossing entertainer.
Rediff Rating: 
