'Gharga' movie review: Ambitious mystery drama lost in chaos

Producer of ‘Jogi’ launches his son Arun Ramprasad with his latest ‘Gharga’. The film opens with Sampath Raj narrating the story of Gharga, a place so terrifying that no one dares to enter.

Vikram Adiga (Ramprasad), a researcher, sets out to explore Gharga. On the way, Adiga is attacked by a gang and is forced to take refuge at the home of Gajanana Aithal’s (Saikumar), who is deeply superstitious. Adiga tells Gajanana that he is researching the reasons behind the sudden death of his father, earning Gajanana’s trust.

Circumstances reveal Adiga’s identity. He is actually Aryan, a gangster tasked with stealing a sacred Linga installed by the Aithal family. Aryan makes attempts to uncover the location of the Linga, but Gajanana refuses to reveal its whereabouts. Why is the Linga so valuable to the Aithals? What motivates Aryan to steal it? Does he succeed? Some of these questions are answered, while others are left open, with the filmmaker indicating that the story will continue.

Director Shashidhar falters on multiple fronts. The narrative lacks suspense and thrills, and the inclusion of Aghoris feels forced and does not add to the plot. Several scenes defy logic and there is no justification for portraying characters as habitual cigar smokers. Fearsome gangsters come across as caricatured rather than intimidating.

Excessive sound levels, subpar music, low quality CGI, and below average cinematography further add to the discomfort.

Saikumar and Arun Sagar perform with ease. Arun Ramprasad lacks adequate screen presence. His acting leaves little to note. Rihana is confined to a glamour role.