Yuva Rajkumar’s “Ekka”: Is This The “Ace” Kannada Cinema Has Been Waiting For?

“Ekka,” the high-octane Kannada action-drama starring Yuva Rajkumar, has hit the scene with a mix of triumph and disappointment, setting a new benchmark for Kannada cinema in 2025 with its record-breaking opening while simultaneously drawing criticism for its familiar narrative.

The film, directed by the acclaimed Rohit Padaki, promised to be a fresh take on the Bengaluru underworld. It follows the emotional and tragic journey of Mutthu, a rural thug who, after a friend’s betrayal, is dragged into a world of crime and violence.

A Tale of Two Halves

Reviews are divided. The first half is widely praised for its emotionally charged storytelling and compelling character building. It effectively establishes Mutthu’s innocence and the events that lead to his transformation. Critics have highlighted the powerful interval block, calling it a cinematic high point.

However, the second half of the film seems to falter. Many reviews point to a “compromise” in the screenplay, where a significant portion of the plot is rushed, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction. The narrative, while emotionally grounded, leans into cliched underworld tropes, and the antagonists are not fully developed. The film is lauded for its technical brilliance, including Charan Raj’s score and Satya Hegde’s cinematography, but even these cannot save a story that, in the end, seems to lose its way.

The Rise of a Star?

Despite the mixed reviews, Yuva Rajkumar’s performance is a standout. He’s been widely appreciated for his growth as an actor, showcasing a strong emotional range and sincerity that carries the film. He successfully portrays the transition from a simple village boy to a reluctant gangster, proving his potential as a leading man. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Atul Kulkarni and Aditya, who bring gravitas to their roles.

“Ekka” may not be the flawless masterpiece some hoped for, but it’s a significant milestone for the Kannada film industry in a year marked by commercial disappointments. It is a story of a tragic transformation, with a protagonist who is not the “ace” of the underworld but a “joker fate toyed with.”

Ekka’s journey continues, not just in theaters but also on the digital front, with its impending release on OTT platforms. While the film may have its flaws, it has certainly provided a much-needed jolt of energy to Sandalwood.

Here’s a quick look at its box office success:

• Biggest Opening of 2025: The film had the highest opening for a Kannada movie in 2025.
• Opening Weekend: It earned a net collection of approximately ₹5.66 crore in its first three days.
• One-Week Collection: By the end of its first week, the film’s net collection reached ₹6.63 crore.
• Audience Response: “Ekka” received great reviews for its action, mass appeal, and Yuva Rajkumar’s performance, leading to high occupancy in theaters.

In short, “Ekka” has been a massive commercial success right from its release, setting a new record for Kannada cinema in 2025.