A splash of local flavour

BANGALORE: Undoubtedly, Kannada cinema has a rich history. With several artists delving into the nuances of reality and fiction; cinema has played a vital role in educating the masses on moral values and virtues. The first film to be screened in the Kannada cinema category recently at the BIFFES  was Chintu School directed by Sheshagiri Yelameli. It is an animation movie targeting the younger audience with meaningful messages. The screening was inaugurated by Home Minister R Ashok on Saturday. On this occasion he said that Kannada films have made it to the national level and have won several awards. Now the time has come to put Kannada films on the world map. He wished them success in their endeavour.The movie revolves around Chintu a young boy fantasising about being like the superheroes he reads in comic books much to his parents’ dislike. He even dreams about saving his maid’s daughter Putti from Aliens. Putti and Chintu soon grow close. One day while playing they are led to an abandoned well where they by chance set free a genie named Balavan who becomes their friend and promises to help them out when they are in trouble. Balavan proves to be a good friend and helps Chintu in many situations. Soon, Chintu starts taking Balavan for granted and one day fails his school test when he refuses to study, hoping that Balavan will magically make him ace it. Chintu confronts Balavan and Balavan and Putti together make Chintu understand that one should expect help only after putting an effort. The movie is a series of moral messages packaged with interesting songs to entertain kids and from the reaction of the audience, it succeeded to do so. Chintu’s character has been well-written. He is the average spoilt mischievous young boy who shows off in front of his friends, doesn’t want to study and lies to save his face. Putti is the earnest maid’s daughter who wishes to go to Chintu’s school and study. The movie is a nice watch especially for kids. The animation is absolutely basic as the medium is still trying to find its feet in the Kannada film industry. Sheshagiri Yelamali was earlier felicitated by R Ashok.