Kannada cinema welcomed a fresh addition this week with the release of Bank of Bhagyalakshmi, a crime comedy thriller directed by debutant Abhishek Manjunath. Produced by H. K. Prakash under the banner of Shree Devi Entertainers, the film stars Dheekshith Shetty and Brinda Acharya in lead roles, supported by a strong ensemble cast.
Storyline:
The film revolves around five amateur thieves who reunite for one last heist in a small-town bank during election season. With little experience and a reckless plan, their attempt spirals into chaos, blending humor, suspense, and social commentary. The narrative is designed as a comedy of errors, where ambition collides with reality in unexpected ways.
Cast and Crew:
- Dheekshith Shetty as Kanaka, nicknamed “Tiger,” whose mischievous charm and witty presence drive much of the film’s humor.
- Brinda Acharya and Sruthi Hariharan add emotional depth to the ensemble.
- Sadhu Kokila provides comic relief, while Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Usha Bhandary, Ashwin Rao Pallakki and others round out the supporting cast.
- Music: Judah Sandhy
- Cinematography: Abhishek G. Kasaragod
- Editing: Tejas R.
- Runtime: Approximately 142–152 minutes
Release and Reception:
- Bank of Bhagyalakshmi released in theatres on November 27–28, 2025. The film has drawn attention for its unconventional approach to the heist genre, mixing local cultural elements with comedy and suspense.
- At the box office, the film registered a modest opening, with collections estimated at ₹0.02 crore worldwide on day one. Industry observers believe that its quirky premise and ensemble cast could help it gain traction through word-of-mouth in the coming weeks.
Themes and Significance:
Bank of Bhagyalakshmi stands out for its attempt to localize the heist comedy genre within a Kannada cultural setting. By mixing small-town politics, ambition, and chaos, the film offers audiences both laughter and suspense. It reflects a growing trend in Kannada cinema where filmmakers experiment with genre-bending narratives and offbeat humor.
