Discover our honest 45 movie review (2025 Kannada film starring Shiva Rajkumar, Upendra, Raj B Shetty). Plot, cast, trailer, IMDb rating & verdict inside. Must-watch fantasy action?
Introduction
45, the 2025 Kannada fantasy action drama, marks music composer Arjun Janya’s bold directorial debut. Blending mythology from the Garuda Purana with raw human fears like death and karma, it stars powerhouses Shiva Rajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B Shetty. Hype built around its massive VFX, emotional depth, and Christmas release has movie lovers buzzing.
Movie Details
Story Overview
In 45, ordinary man Vinay (Raj B Shetty) stumbles into a nightmarish reality after a small mistake unleashes chaos in his life. Drawing from ancient beliefs about the soul’s 45-day journey post-death, the narrative explores five core fears—job loss, broken friendships, love’s fragility, family bonds, and inevitable mortality. As eerie events mirror a documentary he watches, Vinay grapples with karma’s unforgiving grip.
Powerful figures enter his world: the menacing Raayappa (Upendra) and protector Shivappa (Shiva Rajkumar), turning personal turmoil into a larger battle of destiny and devotion. The story weaves philosophy with high-stakes drama, questioning how one fateful action ripples across lives without revealing key twists.
This setup promises a thought-provoking ride, blending everyday struggles with supernatural elements for broad appeal.
Performances & Acting Review
Shiva Rajkumar shines as Shivappa, bringing dignity, playfulness, and emotional heft that anchors the film’s ambitious scope—his climax presence elevates every scene. Upendra delivers a surprisingly vulnerable Raayappa, especially in poignant moments with his dog, adding layers beyond his mass-hero image.
Raj B Shetty grounds the story as Vinay, conveying quiet desperation and growth with raw authenticity that makes fears feel real. Supporting turns like Manasi Sudhir as the devoted mother add heartfelt warmth.
Overall, the ensemble’s commitment carries the film, making characters resonate despite narrative bumps.
Direction, Cinematography & Music
Arjun Janya’s debut shows musical flair in visuals, with over 40% CGI from Canada’s MARZ Studio creating striking afterlife realms and action sequences. However, pacing falters in stretched segments, and VFX feels inconsistent at times.
Satya Hegde’s cinematography excels in moody chases and intimate emotional beats, enhancing the philosophical tone. Janya’s score mixes orchestral swells with jarring BGM, amplifying tension but occasionally overpowering subtlety.
Direction ambitiously fuses devotion, action, and existential dread, though execution wavers in balancing mass elements with depth.
What Works Well
- Stellar Cast Chemistry: Shiva, Upendra, and Raj B Shetty’s trio sparks energy, with Shiva’s entry revitalizing the narrative.
- Bold Concept: Exploring Garuda Purana’s 45-day soul journey via modern fears feels fresh and meditative.
- Emotional Core: Raw feelings of loss, devotion, and redemption hit hard, pulling viewers into characters’ pain.
- VFX Ambition: High-octane sequences and surreal visuals deliver spectacle, rare for Kannada cinema.
These strengths make 45 a theatrical spectacle worth experiencing.
What Could Have Been Better
- Pacing Issues: Early stretches drag with weak romance and repetitive setups, testing patience.
- VFX Inconsistencies: Ambitious effects shine in parts but look uneven elsewhere, pulling from immersion.
- Tonal Shifts: Mix of philosophy, action, and mass moments feels disjointed, diluting impact.
- Script Tightening: A 150-minute runtime could trim fluff for sharper storytelling.
Polish here would elevate it from good to great.
Official Trailer
Watch the official trailer here:
Audience Reaction & IMDb Rating
Audiences praise 45’s emotional rawness and star power, calling it “insane” and “blockbuster” with Shivanna’s climax stealing hearts—many rate it 9/10 for thoughtful themes. Critics note mixed execution but laud ambition, averaging 3/5 stars.
IMDb sits at 7.9/10 from early voters, reflecting strong fan support amid calls for Kannada pride. Social buzz highlights packed theaters post-Christmas release.
Final Verdict
45 movie review: A daring blend of mythology, emotion, and action that succeeds more in heart than polish. Worth theaters for Shiva Rajkumar’s magic and unique ideas—7.5/10. Stream 45 full movie legally post-run if you love philosophical thrillers.
FAQs
Is 45 movie worth watching in theaters?
Yes, its VFX spectacle and emotional peaks demand big-screen immersion, especially Shiva Rajkumar’s power-packed role.
Who is the director of 45 movie?
Arjun Janya, making his debut after composing hits, also handles story and music.
45 movie cast highlights?
Shiva Rajkumar as protector Shivappa, Upendra as antagonist Raayappa, Raj B Shetty as lead Vinay—stellar ensemble.
What is 45 movie about?
A man’s life unravels via karma and post-death lore, facing five fears in a fantasy drama—no spoilers!
45 trailer reaction?
The official 45 movie trailer builds massive hype with intense music, VFX glimpses, and star intros.
Conclusion with Call-to-Action
45 delivers bold cinema with heart, making it a standout 2025 release despite flaws. Share your 45 movie review in comments, check the 45 movie cast details, or watch the 45 trailer now—what’s your verdict? Book tickets and support quality Kannada films!
