Hi Nanna Is A Bittersweet Blend of Heartfelt Love
‘Netflix’ has just dropped ‘Hi Nanna,’ a touching Telugu movie that’s stirring up conversations among fans of feel-good films. Since its release on January 4th, opinions have been flying around. While some viewers find it sweet and endearing, others call it slow but sensible with a somewhat predictable storyline.
What seems to be unanimously praised are the stellar performances by Nani, Mrunal, and Kiara, whose seamless and authentic portrayals have garnered applause. Their chemistry as a family unit, navigating the roles of father, mother, and daughter, has been highlighted for its realism and emotional depth. Despite varying opinions about the film’s pacing and predictability, the actors’ compelling acting and the convincing portrayal of their characters stand out as undeniable strengths of ‘Hi Nanna.’
Meet Viraj, the big-shot photographer in the bustling city of Mumbai, whose world revolves around his little girl, Mahi (played by the charming Kiara Khanna). Viraj might have a crazy busy schedule, but he’s all about making time for Mahi. From the get-go, we see him juggling his high-flying career with being a hands-on dad.
Nani effortlessly transitions between the persona of a charming lover boy and a devoted, responsible father. His ability to embody these contrasting characters, not only through appearance but also through nuanced acting, captivates the audience’s attention and leaves a lasting impression.
Nani’s portrayal beautifully captures Viraj’s determination and genuine innocence. Whether it’s his belief in love at first sight or his undying commitment to his daughter, Nani embodies the character flawlessly. This performance feels like Nani’s return to emotional depth, reminiscent of his work in “Jersey.”
Mrunal, on the other hand, delivers an astounding feat by portraying both Varsha and Yashna, two roles that stand at opposite ends of the spectrum. Her subtle yet compelling portrayal of a single person with amnesia navigating two distinct identities showcases her versatility as an actress. The seamless transition between these polarized roles highlights her skillful command over her craft, leaving the audience in awe of her talent.
Mrunal’s character, grappling with traumatic stress, is a pivotal element that unfortunately fails to resonate as profoundly with the audience. The limited screen time allocated to her parents’ tumultuous relationship and the depiction of the divorce might contribute to this disconnect. The portrayal falls slightly short in conveying the depth of her emotional turmoil, creating a gap between the character’s experience and the audience’s perception.
Viraj is the hopeful one, while Varsha, played by Mrunal, carries anxieties rooted in a fractured upbringing. Promises are made, but destiny’s got its own plans, throwing a curveball. She’s caught in the swirl of grief and guilt, while he, too, battles sorrow but clings onto a glimmer of hope. It’s like they’re both grappling with grief, but while she’s in the depths, he’s reaching for that silver lining, trying to hold onto something brighter.
Despite her tender age, Kiara delves deep into the complexities of the story, understanding its emotional depth and translating it remarkably through her acting. Her performance is nothing short of commendable, displaying a level of maturity and understanding that belies her years. Kiara’s portrayal of Mahi adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative, bringing an authentic and heartfelt essence to the film.
The spotlight often shines brightly on its main characters – Viraj (Nani), Varsha/Yashna (Mrunal), and Mahi (Kiara Khanna). Yet, amidst the captivating performances of the central trio, a set of equally significant supporting characters grace the screen, albeit without ample space to carve their full impact into the storyline. Angad Bedi, portraying Mrunal’s fiancé, brings depth to the narrative through his brief appearances. Jayaram, essaying the role of Mrunal’s father, brings a sense of gravitas and familial warmth in his limited appearances. Priyadarshi, as Viraj’s friend Justin, injects moments of light-heartedness and camaraderie into the storyline. The supporting cast’s significance, although apparent, remains somewhat restrained, echoing the need for a broader canvas to showcase their talents and narrative arcs.
The film attempts to inject surprises and turns to keep audiences engaged, notably the revelation that Yashna is actually Varsha, who had lost her memory in an accident. Additionally, Viraj’s transformation of Varsha’s sister into a brother while narrating the story to his daughter adds an unexpected twist. Yet, these plot twists don’t manage to firmly grip the audience, as many seem to have foreseen these revelations to some extent.
‘Hi Nanna’ stands as a poignant tale interwoven with commendable character portrayals, yet it navigates a delicate balance between delivering emotional depth and meeting audience expectations. While the film impresses with its well-crafted character dynamics and talented performances by its cast, there’s a sense of unfulfilled emotional resonance that leaves room for contemplation.
FF Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review By: Navya D.
