Rakshasa Movie Review: A Gripping Kannada Thriller with Mythology & Horror

The Kannada film Rakshasa brings an exciting fusion of horror and time-loop storytelling, making it a unique addition to the genre. Directed by Lohith H, known for Mummy Save Me and Devaki, the movie delivers an engaging narrative that combines mythological elements with a gripping thriller. Leading the charge is Prajwal Devaraj, who delivers a power-packed performance, keeping the audience invested in this eerie and suspenseful tale.

The story of Rakshasa revolves around Sathya, a suspended police officer who finds himself drawn back into duty when a dangerous gang needs to be apprehended. What starts as a routine mission takes a terrifying turn when he inadvertently unleashes an ancient demon, the Brahmarakshasa, from a mysterious wooden box stored in the police station’s evidence room.

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As soon as the demon is freed, Sathya is trapped in an endless time loop where the same horrifying events keep repeating. With every loop, he is forced to relive the terror while battling the demonic force and his own haunting past. The film gradually unfolds the mystery behind the Brahmarakshasa, its origins dating back centuries and its connection to Sathya. Can he break free from this nightmare and defeat the supernatural entity?

Prajwal Devaraj carries the entire film on his shoulders with an intense and layered performance. The role demands him to repeatedly portray the same events with subtle variations, making each iteration feel fresh and engaging. His action sequences are impactful, and his portrayal of Sathya’s psychological turmoil adds depth to the character. This film further solidifies Prajwal’s versatility as an actor who can easily handle complex narratives.

Lohith H takes a bold step by blending horror with the time-loop concept. While many horror films rely on jump scares, Rakshasa focuses on building tension through its eerie setting and mythological undertones. The story is tightly woven, ensuring that each moment contributes to the suspense, though some parts may leave viewers with lingering questions. Interestingly, Rakshasa serves as Chapter 2 of a planned series, with a prequel in the works that aims to resolve the unanswered mysteries.

One of the standout aspects of Rakshasa is its sound design. B. Ajaneesh Loknath’s haunting background score elevates the horror elements, creating an immersive experience. The cinematography by Jebin C Jackob also plays a crucial role, making effective use of dim lighting and confined spaces to heighten the suspense. The entire film takes place within the police station, which adds to the claustrophobic horror, making the audience feel as trapped as Sathya himself.

What Works:

• Prajwal Devaraj’s commanding performance
• A unique blend of horror and time-loop elements
• Engaging screenplay with a mythological backstory
• Spine-chilling background score

What Could Have Been Better:

• Some unanswered questions that may frustrate viewers
• Repetitive scenes due to the time-loop format
• Limited supporting characters, making it heavily reliant on Prajwal’s performance

Rakshasa is an intriguing attempt at merging horror with the sci-fi concept of time loops, offering a fresh experience for Kannada cinema. While it demands patience from viewers due to its repetitive structure, it rewards them with an intense atmosphere, solid performances, and a gripping storyline. If you enjoy horror with a twist, this film is definitely worth your time. The hints at a prequel make it even more compelling, promising a deeper exploration of its mythological roots.

Rating: (3/5)

Watch the Official Trailer Here