Love Mocktail movie review: This Kannada film is a fun ride for the most part providing a nostalgic journey through romance

There is supposed to be at least one great story in everybody's life. Actor Krishna (Darling-Madarangi) turns director to tell his. The protagonist recalling all his romantic affairs is not a new kind of story. It is a genre in itself. It is the individual experiences (incidents) that differ. If they are relatable to a larger audience, then there are very few things to stop it becoming a good film.

The hero has a perfect reason to tell his story. The first few minutes of the film feels like a regular run-of-the-mill attempt. But it settles down to a subtle but detailed, heartwarming narration very soon. The deft with which Krishna has handled the narration is a big surprise. He has maturity in thought and is playful in execution. Love Mocktail is a fun ride for the most part providing a nostalgic journey through romance.

To experience the moments is what Love Mocktail expects from the audience. The end is predictable and some of the incidents quite common. Krishna turns them to his advantage by making the film appealing to a large section of the audience. A childhood crush, a life-transforming love affair through college and beyond and a relationship that teaches him life, is what Rummy (Krishna) goes through.

The physical transformation Krishna undergoes to play the different ages and the kind of performance he displays is excellent. He wins both as a director and actor. But never does he try to make the film a star vehicle. He gives the character what it deserves; brickbats and humbling insults when needed. That is why Love Mocktail is a good movie and not just another entertainer.

The music has a special presence in the film. The four songs blend to the narrative like a creeper. The outstanding behind the scene effort is the background score. In the days of pain-in-the-ear drum beating, the BGM here is invisible but its effect cannot be missed. The eye-pleasing cinematography is a bonus. Love Mocktail overall is a pleasing experience Kannada audience deserve. Director Krishna merits an applauding welcome.