As the year comes to a close, the world of Kannada cinema has witnessed an eventful 2023. Rakshit Shetty's tragic films Sapta Sagardaache Ello Side A and Sapta Sagardaache Ello Side B have made an impact across languages. Additionally, Raj B Shetty's Toby has elevated the revenge drama genre to another level. Shiva Rajkumar's Ghost brought us an intense heist drama, while Darling Krishna's Kousalya Supraja Rama explored the flaws in human beings and their journey to acceptance. Here is a list of Sandalwood’s top 8 in 2023 Sapta Sagardaache Ello Side A Starring Rakshit Shetty and Rukmini Vasanth, the movie, initially a sweet love story, takes a tragic turn when Manu ends up in prison. Helmed by Hemanth Rao, the film explores the challenges faced by the couple struggling to make ends meet. In the first part, it poses the question whether Manu and Priya's love can survive the barrier prison puts between them. Sapta Sagardaache Ello Side B Side B begins on a tragic note as Manu, now out of jail, discovers that Priya has moved on and married someone else. Despite promising to leave her alone upon learning about how she is happy, Manu starts stalking her. Upon discovering her family's financial struggles, he goes to great lengths to make her happy and help her husband revive his business. Towards the end, Manu tragically loses his life while trying to save his lover (played by Chaitra Achar). Ghost Shiva Rajkumar's film is a treat to watch, offering a heist drama with unexpected twists at every turn. With no secondary plots involving romantic relationships or dance numbers, the movie stays true to its genre. From start to finish, viewers are kept guessing about what will happen next, while still trying to recall events from just five minutes ago. Shiva Rajkumar's mass appeal adds to the enjoyment, making it a treat for his fans to watch. Hostel Hudguru Bekagiddare Debutant Nithin Krishnamurthy's film is a must-watch if you're a fan of movies like Kirik Party. Despite being completely different, both films share a college theme set in a boys' hostel, offering hilarious one-liners that take you back to the golden days. The director has ventured into something innovative with the entire movie shot using a hand-held camera, operated by Arvind Kashyap. The storyline follows the students at Thunga Boys Hostel take on a chaotic ride of dumping a dead body a day before an important exam. Kousalya Supraja Rama The movie, starring Darling Krishna, Milana Nagaraj, and Brinda Acharya, explores toxic masculinity as it follows Rama's journey. A chauvinist, he changes after suffering a personal loss. Marrying Muthulakshmi, who struggles with alcoholism, makes Rama recognise human flaws. Determined to transform, the story faces hurdles in reaching the climax. But Darling Krishna and Milana Nagaraj's great chemistry is a treat for their fans, especially after their hits like Love Birds and Mr. Bachelor. Toby: Raj B Shetty's Toby is more than just a revenge story. It'll leave you applauding the actor's flawless performance, keeping you hooked with his acting and directing prowess. Toby, a character who is a father, lover, killer, and an orphan, shines in this slow-burning tale, revealing a man with a big heart. The narrative of Toby revolves around the circumstances that push him to the breaking point. Aachar and Co The movie is a family entertainer. It is beautifully crafted with Sindhu’s direction, who avoids moments that could make you shed a tear. From a plot perspective, Aachar & Co is a heart touching story that takes us on the journey of ten siblings, growing up in an orthodox household in Bangalore. Set in the 60s and 70s, it's a lighthearted comedy with totally relatable banter between siblings. Swathi Mutthina Male Haniye The Raj B Shetty directorial is a beautiful film, mirroring its theme that not living fully is akin to being dead. The lead, Siri Ravikumar, portrays Prerana's journey, and Raj B Shetty's Aniketh leaves a lasting impact. It touches on the purpose of existence through the tale of a dying man who forms a meaningful connection with his counselor during his final days.
