Right from its launch, this film was in news, facing threats from various quarters. A much-awaited film, Mathad Mathadu Mallige reaffirms the belief that cinema is the best medium to convey a message. Nagatihalli Chandrashekhar’s dispassionate take on the effects of Liberalisation, Privatisation and Globalisation that followed one after the other has come at the right time.
The film examines a number of issues that are very much relevant in these consumer-driven days. The matter-of-fact way of presenting hard facts gives an impact much stronger than a documentary. The story of the fight of an idyllic village against the MNC that is bent upon driving them away to get at the mineral deposit beneath their land, can further inspire many. Weaving characters from the Bayaluseeme Kattepurana-- Jummi, Seera, Kala Maava, Ugri and Whatissay into the plot, the director brings the film that much closer to reality. Vishnuvardhan and Suhasini as Hoovaiah and his wife Kanaka complement each other so well, bringing back memories of Bandhana. Vishnuvardhan is simply awesome, as he plays his age in the film, treating us to a kaleidoscope of emotions. Suhasini, of course is a natural. In fact, most of the cast have been chosen well.
The director lets both his characters and nature to tell his story, mingling scenes of mindless mining with the pristine locales of Uttara Kannada. The scenes of the police excess on hapless villagers and uprooting the jasmine bushes are heart-rending. He manages to retain his hold for most part of the film, except when the concept of violence as a solution is introduced. Sudeep, in a cameo, is at ease. The climax, though predictable, seems to favour one aspect of the system. Yet, with breathtaking cinematography, pleasing music and surprisingly natural acting all make this a memorable outing for families.