Kaantha (2025) A Retro Thriller Carved in Cinema’s Golden Era

Dulquer Salmaan’s much‑anticipated film Kaantha (2025) takes the viewer back to the smoky, ambitious world of 1950s Madras  a time when the magic of cinema was both fragile and volatile. Directed and co‑written by Selvamani Selvaraj, the film is an evocative tribute to the golden age of Tamil cinema, combining period‑authentic visuals with a layered drama built on ambition, ego, betrayal and mystery.

Plot & Themes

Set against the backdrop of societal change and cinematic dreams, the story revolves around veteran director Ayya (played by Samuthirakani) and his former protégé turned superstar T. K. Mahadevan (portrayed by Dulquer Salmaan). The pair reunites for what was meant to be a boundary‑pushing, female‑led horror film originally titled Shaantha. But as Mahadevan asserts control, rechristening the film as Kaantha, the creative tension spirals into personal betrayal, culminating in a shocking murder on set. What follows is a tense investigation that unravels loyalties, egos and haunting secrets.

At its core, Kaantha explores timeless themes: the seductive pull of ambition, the fragile bonds of mentorship, and the personal cost of fame. It questions whether artistry can survive when ego and greed take the lead a narrative as gripping as it is tragic.

Cast, Production & Cinematic Craft

The film boasts a strong ensemble: Dulquer Salmaan, Samuthirakani, Bhagyashri Borse and Rana Daggubati, produced under the banners of Wayfarer Films and Spirit Media.

Visually, the film thrives on its period authenticity. Cinematography captures the grit and glamour of 1950s Madras; the art direction, costumes and sound design collectively evoke a bygone era of cinema  making the audience feel like they’ve stepped into a vintage film studio.

Music plays a key role: the soundtrack by Jhanu Chanthar and background score by Jakes Bejoy evoke nostalgia, enhancing the emotional and psychological weight of the narrative.

Critical Response & Reception

Since its worldwide theatrical release on 14 November 2025, Kaantha has drawn mixed‑to‑positive reviews. Many critics praise Dulquer Salmaan’s performance as the film’s anchor his portrayal of Mahadevan’s internal conflict, ambition and descent into darkness stands out.

The film’s retro framework, art direction, and the film‑within-a-film narrative structure have also been hailed for ambition and aesthetic. Fans of slow‑burn period dramas appreciate the layers, the atmosphere, and the psychological tension.

However, some critiques point to pacing issues and narrative indulgence at times, the slow unfolding and focus on atmosphere over plot momentum makes the latter half feel drawn out. But for viewers sensitive to mood, character arcs and cinematic nostalgia, Kaantha delivers a haunting experience.

Availability & What’s Next

After its theatrical run, Kaantha’s digital streaming rights were reportedly acquired by Netflix. While the exact OTT release date is not confirmed, industry sources indicate a likely premiere around mid‑December 2025.

Given its layered themes and artistic ambition, Kaantha is poised to find an audience among lovers of vintage cinema, psychological thrillers, and behind‑the‑scenes sagas especially once it lands on streaming platforms with wider accessibility.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Watch Kaantha

• It’s a rare modern film that truly commits to recreating the ambience of a bygone cinematic era with attention to detail in visuals, sound, and storytelling.

• The central conflict between artistic integrity and star ego resonates beyond its period setting, offering a universal cautionary tale about fame and ambition.

• With strong performances, especially by Dulquer Salmaan, and a haunting score, Kaantha is more than a thriller: it’s a melancholy reflection on cinema, hubris, and the cost of creative rivalry.

Whether you’re nostalgic for the golden age of South Indian cinema or curious about a murder mystery framed within movie‑making chaos, Kaantha (2025) is worth your time a cinematic journey to the past that doesn’t linger as past but pulses with timeless ambition and tragedy.