A remake of the Malayalam hit Oppam, starring Mohanlal and directed by Priyadarshan, Kavacha is a conscious effort by first-time director GVR Vasu, to stick to the original story. What makes Kavacha stand out is the performance by Shivarajkumar, who proves his mettle with realistic acting.

Cast: Shivarajkumar, Baby Meenkashi, Kruthika Jayakumar, Isha Koppilkar
Director: GVR Vasu

Shivarajkumar plays a visually-challenged character, Jayarama aka Ramappa, who has promised to protect Nandhini (Baby Meenakshi) from being killed by Vasudev (Vasishta Simha). Why Jayarama makes this promise and how he gets entangled in a murder plot while keeping Nandhini safe, makes for a suspenseful story that is captured beautifully by cinematographer Rahul Shrivastav. Arjun Janya provides soulful music; the song Rekkeya Kudure Yei lingers long after one exits the theatres.

The debutant director, who seems to have picked the right subject, has not tampered with the original in any manner. He has even retained the same character names.

Shivarajkumar, who is known for holding machetes in commercial potboilers, handles the white cane with equal aplomb in this film. The actor deftly portrays the ways of a visually-challenged person, and makes an emotional connect with the audience. He has taken his performance a notch higher with this character, but it might just be too early to state whether this is the most memorable role of his career.

With the soul of the film being Baby Meenakshi, others, including Vasishta Simha, Isha Koppikar, Kruthika Jayakumar, Table Nani, Ravi Kale, and Rajesh Nataranga, provide good support.

It would perhaps have been better if this two hour 40 minute film had been cut a bit shorter. It would have helped this suspense thriller make a better impact. But for those who have not seen the original, this film will surely be an interesting watch.