‘45’ Movie Review: Star Power Salvages Arjun Janya Uneven Magnum Opus

December 25, 2025 — The much-anticipated Kannada film 45, marking the directorial debut of famed music composer Arjun Janya, has finally hit the big screens this Christmas. Boasting a “dream cast” that brings together the legendary Shivarajkumar, the eccentric Upendra, and the versatile Raj B. Shetty, the film is a high-stakes gamble on philosophical storytelling and visual spectacle.

While the film struggles under the weight of its own ambition, it is ultimately the sheer charisma of its lead trio that prevents this “magnum opus” from sinking.

A Tale of Life, Death, and the Garuda Purana

At its core, 45 is far from a standard commercial potboiler. It delves into the metaphysical world, drawing heavy inspiration from the Garuda Purana. The story follows Vinay (Raj B. Shetty), a man whose life takes a dark turn after an accidental encounter leads to a 45-day ultimatum.

The narrative explores the “in-between” state of the soul after death, attempting to blend high-concept philosophy with “mass” entertainment. It is a bold premise for a debutant director, and Janya’s intent to bring something fresh to Sandalwood is evident in every frame.

Performance: The Triple Threat

If 45 succeeds, it is because of the powerhouse performances of its leads:

• Shivarajkumar (The Mass God): Shivanna’s entry in the second half shifts the film’s gear. Playing a character inspired by Korean fantasy dramas (reminiscent of the Goblin), he commands the screen with a “Mass-God” aura and a series of explosive “Shivappa” avatars.
• Upendra (The Eccentric): As Rayappa, Upendra is in his element, channeling the quirky, intellectual energy that defined his own directorial classics. His portrayal of extreme devotion and madness is both intriguing and unsettling.
• Raj B. Shetty (The Emotional Anchor): Raj serves as the audience’s surrogate, grounding the supernatural chaos with a relatable, vulnerable performance. He carries the bulk of the film’s narrative weight, appearing in almost every scene.

Technical Triumphs and Pitfalls

For a film with a reported ₹80 crore budget and an “Oscar-winning” VFX team, the technical output is a mixed bag.

The Verdict: A Wild Card Experience

Arjun Janya’s 45 is a flawed but fascinating debut. It is a film that clearly respects its stars, offering “whistle-worthy” moments for the fans while trying to educate the youth on Indian mythology. While the direction is uneven and the VFX inconsistent, the film’s philosophical core—suggesting that life and death are separated by a very small space—leaves a lasting impact.

Final Thought: It may not be the flawless masterpiece fans hoped for, but for the spectacle of seeing Shivanna, Uppi, and Raj B. Shetty share the screen, 45 is a theatrical experience worth the price of admission.