Kannada cinema has always had a knack for weaving stories that resonate with the common man, and Love Matteru, directed by and starring Viraata Bilwa, is no exception. Released in 2025, this romantic drama featuring Sonal Monteiro and Achyuth Kumar has been creating quite a buzz in Gandhinagar. With its refreshing take on love in the age of instant connections, the film tries to bridge the gap between fleeting modern romances and the longing for deeper, meaningful bonds. Here’s a closer look at what makes Love Matteru a film worth talking about.
A Story That Connects the Dots
Love Matteru explores the evolution of love, contrasting the slow-burn romances of the past with today’s fast-paced, often superficial connections driven by social media and instant gratification. The film’s narrative, as described by IMDb, “connects the dots” between these two worlds, offering a commentary on how genuine effort in relationships still holds value in a world of swipe-right culture.
Viraata Bilwa, who also directs the film, plays the lead role, bringing a raw, authentic energy to the story. His character navigates the complexities of modern love, while Sonal Monteiro, as Varsha, adds a layer of grace and emotional depth. Achyuth Kumar, playing Aatma, delivers a powerful performance, grounding the film with his seasoned acting prowess. The ensemble cast, including Suman Ranganath as Shyamala and Anitha Bhat as Gayithri, adds further flavor to the narrative.
Performances That Shine
Viraata Bilwa, donning the dual hat of actor and director, proves his mettle. Drawing inspiration from Kannada cinema stalwarts, as noted by Times of India, Bilwa crafts a story that feels personal yet universal. His on-screen chemistry with Sonal Monteiro is one of the film’s highlights. Sonal, known for her roles in films like Banaras, brings a natural charm to Varsha, making her both relatable and aspirational. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure makes her a standout.
Achyuth Kumar, a veteran of Kannada cinema with acclaimed performances in films like Kantara and K.G.F: Chapter 1, elevates Love Matteru with his nuanced portrayal of Aatma. His character adds an emotional anchor to the story, reminding us why he’s a recipient of multiple Filmfare and Karnataka State Film Awards. The supporting cast, including Sushmitha Gopinath and Shalini, ensures the film feels like a well-rounded ensemble piece.
Music and Visuals That Tug at the Heart
One of the film’s early talking points was the release of its romantic song, Maathadisodilla, which has already won hearts for its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The music, composed with care, complements the film’s emotional core, making it a perfect companion for the romantic sequences. The cinematography captures the essence of urban and rural Karnataka, blending modernity with tradition, much like the film’s central theme.
The film’s runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes feels just right, giving enough space for the story to unfold without dragging. The production, backed by Uma Nagaraj, Vandana Priya V, and Prabhu Kumar, reflects a modest yet effective budget of ₹20 million, ensuring the focus remains on storytelling rather than flashy visuals.
A Nod to Kannada Cinema’s Roots
What makes Love Matteru special is its rootedness in Kannada cinema’s tradition of telling stories that resonate with local audiences while exploring universal themes. Viraata Bilwa’s direction draws inspiration from the likes of Girish Kasaravalli and other Kannada directors who’ve mastered the art of blending simplicity with depth. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the struggles of modern relationships, yet it remains hopeful, urging viewers to seek connections that go beyond the surface.
The Buzz Around Sonal and Tharun
Adding to the film’s off-screen intrigue is the rumored wedding of Sonal Monteiro and Kannada actor-director Tharun Sudhir, speculated to take place on August 10, 2025. While the couple hasn’t confirmed the news, the buzz has only amplified interest in Love Matteru, with fans eager to see Sonal’s on-screen romance amid her real-life love story. This chatter, while unrelated to the film’s plot, has kept it in the spotlight.
Final Verdict
Love Matteru is a heartfelt addition to Kannada cinema’s romantic oeuvre. It’s not without its flaws—some might find the pacing uneven in parts—but its sincerity and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch. For those who believe love is still about effort and connection, this film will strike a chord. Whether you’re a fan of Viraata Bilwa’s directorial vision, Sonal Monteiro’s charm, or Achyuth Kumar’s gravitas, Love Matteru offers something for everyone.
So, grab your popcorn, head to the nearest theatre, and let Love Matteru remind you why love, in all its forms, still matters.
