“Eltu Muttha Review” – A Gritty Tale Rooted in Culture but Not for the Faint Hearted

Raa Surya’s Eltu Muttha dares to explore a world rarely touched in Kannada cinema — the lives of funeral drummers in the remote forests of Coorg. It is an atmospheric film that blends ritual, folklore, and raw human emotion. While the subject is fresh and the backdrop compelling, the film also dives into dark spaces that may not sit well with every viewer.

The story revolves around Muttha, played by Shaurya Prathap, and Eltu, portrayed by Raa Surya himself. Their friendship is built on shared caste, profession, and hardship. The arrival of a mysterious conch believed to have divine powers causes a shift in their bond. What begins as a tale of companionship slowly transforms into a story about greed, betrayal, and spiritual confusion.

Performances stand strong across the board. Shaurya Prathap delivers a grounded and emotionally layered performance. Raa Surya plays a more controlled role that allows tension to quietly build. Supporting actors like Priyanka Malali, Ram Devanagari as Ram Bolli, Cockroach Sudhi, and Navin D Padil bring life to the surrounding world. The child actor offers a moment of innocence in a largely serious narrative.

Visually, the film is a treat. Cinematographer Meiyappa Bhaskar captures the foggy forests and earthy tones of Coorg with remarkable sensitivity. The music and background score by Prasanna Keshava are subtle yet impactful. Editing could have been sharper though, especially in the second half where the film tends to drag and lose some of its early emotional grip.

The film is not without its flaws. The second half leans heavily on symbolism and feels repetitive at times. More importantly, the film includes scenes of bloodshed, cruelty, and disturbing imagery that may be too intense for some viewers. While the intention might be to remain authentic to certain rituals and realities, these moments can feel harsh and excessive.

In the end, Eltu Muttha is a bold and original attempt that presents a unique cultural narrative with sincerity. It is intense, thought provoking, and visually captivating, but not always easy to watch. For viewers who appreciate raw storytelling with strong performances and a rooted backdrop, it is worth a watch — with a fair warning about its darker turns.

Rating: 3/5