Kantara: Chapter 1 is a highly ambitious and visually stunning action drama prequel to the original Kantara film. It has received praise for its technical brilliance, captivating action sequences, and Rishab Shetty's outstanding performance as the lead actor and director. The film immerses viewers in a mythological and folklore-rich world, showcasing divine elements and breathtaking visuals, particularly in its interval and climax scenes. Critics highlight the impressive use of VFX, the rich cultural backdrop related to Karnataka's forests and legends, and the solid performances of the cast including Rukmini Vasanth and Jayaram. However, some note that the pacing can be slow at times, with overstuffed scenes and somewhat predictable plot elements. The film is recognized for its grand scale, ambitious storytelling, and a mix of action, adventure, and devotional drama, although the final act and some writing aspects received mixed reactions. Overall, Kantara: Chapter 1 is regarded as a theatre-worthy film that expands the Kantara universe with grandeur and depth, offering a compelling cinematic experience despite some flaws in pacing and narrative depth.