Krishna Kuchela (I) (1961) User Reviews

The unfathomable depth of childhood love

[www-yfm · 6/10 · 20 August 2014]

The story is the Mythological relationship between Krishna and Kuchelan. I am not revealing the final twist (the climax) in the story here because it's for the readers to find it themselves by watching this movie which is soaked in love and emotion. It's unbelievably shocking and forces a sensitive person to ponder as to what can be the depth of love. Perhaps the depth of true love is unfathomable. And it's very difficult to understand the thought-train and consequential actions of a true lover. The Malayalam film 'Krishna Kuchela,' produced by Udaya Studios,' and 'Bhakta Kuchela,' produced by Neela Productions', had the same Bhagavatha story of Krishna and his childhood friend Kuchela. 'Bhakta Kuchela' was released on November 9, 1961, and 'Krishna Kuchela' on November 18, 1961. The Neela film, directed by P. Subramaniam, was a huge hit, whereas 'Krishna Kuchela' failed miserably. The movie is quite entertaining despite its profound tone and scarcity of relief moments. The milieu is simple but the story flows very well and the curiosity factor remains active till the ending sequence. Directed by Kunchacko, 'Krishna Kuchela' was shot at Udaya Studios. The dances choreographed by Hiralal and cinematography by T. N. Krishnankutty were commendable. The high point of the film was its music, which was composed by K. Raghavan. Director M.Kunchakko has handled the story very well. Plus the admirable performances have eased the director's job. Prem Nazir, Muthayya, Ragini, K.P.A.C Sulochana and Kottayam Chellappan have done complete justice to their respective characters. Child artists Master Boban Kunchakko (playing young Shri Krishnan) and Master Hari (playing young Kuchela) have also done very well. The movie has a great music appeal. The team of K.Ragavan, the composer and P.Bhaskaran, the lyricist, has prepared gems like Aalinte kombathe, Ambadi thannilorunni, Eppozheppol, Hare Krishna etc. and Ragavan, Leela and Vasanthakumari have sung them beautifully. I recommend this black and white movie to those who like old-fashioned sentimental dramas and mythological movies. If you are fond of watching golden oldies containing melodious songs, then this black and white movie is just for you.