In the realm of cinema, there’s a recurring fascination with depicting real-life tricksters in a positive light, often glorifying their exploits instead of condemning them. “Mr Natwarlal” epitomizes this trend, drawing inspiration from the infamous swindler Mithilesh Kumar Srivastava, better known as Natwarlal, and portraying its protagonist as a charming yet infamous con artist. What sets this film apart, however, is its departure from the typical portrayal of such characters.
Here, the protagonist is imbued with a compelling rationale for his actions, blurring the boundaries between villainy and righteousness. In his directorial debut, Lava Kaggere deftly navigates the delicate balance between entertainment and moral ambiguity, resulting in a captivating and rewarding cinematic journey.
The narrative of “Mr Natwarlal” is anything but straightforward. Kaggere intricately intertwines four distinct storylines—ranging from family drama to serial murder, abductions, and online scams—that unfold concurrently, gradually revealing their interconnectedness. The film seamlessly blends thrilling con schemes with poignant emotional moments, ensuring sustained engagement from the audience.
Despite the viewers’ prior knowledge of Natwarlal’s identity, the unveiling of his character within the story still manages to elicit a sense of anticipation, a testament to the director’s skill in maintaining suspense and intrigue.
Tanush Shivanna delivers an exceptional performance as Natwarlal, effortlessly capturing the essence of the mastermind with finesse and charisma. His character’s mysterious demeanor presents a formidable challenge to law enforcement, leading to a gripping cat-and-mouse game that holds viewers captive. The film delves into Natwarlal’s motivations, adding depth to his actions and providing a compelling rationale for his illicit endeavors. The relentless pursuit by the authorities results in a series of exhilarating and suspenseful sequences that keep audiences enthralled.
In addition to Shivanna’s stellar portrayal, the supporting cast, particularly Nagabhushana and Rajesh Nataranga, deliver commendable performances, seamlessly inhabiting their respective roles. Sonal Monteiro, in particular, transcends the confines of a mere glamorous presence, infusing substance into her character. Overall, “Mr Natwarlal” stands out from the crowd, offering a nuanced depiction of its characters and justifying its presence in theaters as a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Film: Mr Natwarlal Director: Lava Kaggere Cast: Tanush Shivanna, Sonal Monteiro, Nagabhushana NS, Rajesh Nataranga, Yash Shetty, Cockraoch Sudhi Duration: 130 minutes Certificate: UA
