Kannada film ‘Peotu’ attempts to explore alcohol addiction through new lens

‘Peotu’ explores a man’s battle with alcoholism. Director Karthik Rajan speaks to The Hindu on the film, its theme and challenges of shooting it

Do you know what the word ‘Peotu’ means? I didn’t, until I watched this lesser-known Kannada film, which recently released in theatres. For those who are unfamiliar, it’s a slang term meaning ‘drunkard’ in Kannada.

Directed by Karthik Rajan, an independent filmmaker based out of Bengaluru, Peotu explores a man’s arc as he battles alcoholism.

Produced by Grace Film Company, the story follows the emotional journey of Peter Patrick (played by Likith M.N.), a man devastated by his wife’s sudden departure, forcing him to seek solace in drinking.

Peter, a software engineer, returns home one day to find his wife, Reeta (Ashwini Chavare), missing. He finds a note saying she has left him for another man. Shocked by her desertion, Peter resorts to drinking to overcome his grief. Eventually, Peter, who becomes ‘Peotu’ Peter, lives a life of loneliness, regret, and alcohol abuse.

The story follows the emotional journey of Peter Patrick, a man, who filled with grief, seeks solace in drinking. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement

Speaking to The Hindu about his debut feature directorial, Karthik says the film is a poignant tale of redemption, self-acceptance, and the painful journey towards healing.