45 Movie Review | Kairam Vaashi | THR India

Kairam Vaashi reviews 45, the directorial debut of celebrated Kannada music director Arjun Janya. The film stars Shiva Rajkumar, Upendra, and Raj B Shetty in a fantasy drama rooted in themes from the Garuda Purana—exploring death, karma, and the five fundamental fears one must conquer in life.

Kairam examines how Vinay, played by Raj, becomes the axis of the story after a fateful action brings him into conflict with Upendra's Raayappa, while Shiva's Shivappa steps in as his unlikely protector. The review breaks down where the film's ambitious vision connects and where it falls short—from stretched sequences and a weak love track to inconsistent VFX and a jarring background score.

For Kairam, the film truly finds its spark only when Shiva enters the narrative, bringing screen presence, playfulness, and dignity that keep 45 afloat. He also touches on the Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana callback, retro song choices, and a climax surprise.

The THR India verdict? Full marks for effort and ambition, but the execution doesn't quite match the promise.