Director Krish aka Radhakrishna Jagarlamudi's Telugu movie "Kanche", which released in theatres around the world on 22 October, has received rave reviews and rich ratings from the critics.

Set in the era of 1940's, "Kanche" is a war drama film written by Krish. Dhoopati Hari Babu (Varun Tej) is an intelligent guy from a lower caste. During his graduate studies in Madras, he falls in love with Seetha Devi (Pragya Jaiswal), who is the daughter of the landlord of his village. But the caste barrier does not allow them to get married. How they get united forms the rest of the story.

Krish has chosen a wonderful script for "Kanche", which sends out a brilliant message to society. The first part of the film is engaging, but the emotional connect falls flat in the second half. If the director had taken care of it, the movie would have been a masterpiece, say the critics.

Varun Tej and Pragya Jaiswal have delivered wonderful performances, which are among the main highlights of "Kanche", which has rich production values. Chirrantan Bhatt's music, VS Gnana Shekar's cinematography, Sahi Suresh's art direction, Sai Madhav Burra's dialogues and Venkat and David Khubua's action choreography are big assets of the film, add the critics.

"Kanche" has been rated 3.1 out of 5 stars. We bring you some critics' verdict and ratings for the film. Continue to see the same in "Kanche" movie review roundup:

The Hindu review

Kanche (fence) is a metaphor to show the lines of demarcation in society; lines that divide us on the basis of religion, race, caste and wealth. The narrow mindedness behind the divisions in a small village, Devarakonda, is no different from the urge for supremacy that's tearing nations apart in World War II.

The Times of India Ratings: 3

Kanche is a daring attempt for mainstream Tollywood cinema. While there's an interesting story which is told really well, you will be left with the lingering feeling that it could have been a lot better.

Idle Brain Ratings: 3

First half of the film is nice with a good narration and an interesting screenplay. We expect the proceedings in second half to intensify as the climax progresses. The latter part of second half appears hurried up and is devoid of emotion. Director Krish should be appreciated for a brave attempt and for narrating a love story with WWII backdrop. On whole, Kanche is brave film with good technical values.

India Glitz Ratings: 3.25

A soul-stirring film that pushes the envelope. Class stuff with high technical values. Sai Madhav Burra and Sirivennela complement Krish's narration of a mind-numbing Nazi pursuit and the 'kanche' in an Indian village.

123 Telugu Ratings: 3.25

Tollywood has become an industry which is no longer associated with only commercial entertainers. Films like Baahubali, Rudrama Devi and now Kanche, have pushed the boundaries beyond everyone's expectations. Krish should be truly appreciated for attempting a film which takes Telugu films to another level. A realistic back drop, gripping visuals and stunning performance by Varun Tej are major assets. Barring the slow narration, Kanche is a film which is devoid of masala entertainment and should be given a shot for its daring and different attempt.

Gulte Ratings: 3

Kanche may not be a perfect film but it is definitely worth a watch for its sincerity and the dedication of the filmmakers to do something against the tide. It is a genuine film that never deviates from the theme. It could have done wonders if the director got the emotions right in the second half. Hope Kanche does well despite the shortcomings so that many others would be inspired to make such honest films rather playing it safe.