Nanna Review: Shouryuv’s first film is a touching emotional drama that will pull at your heartstrings, courtesy of its compelling performances and storyline.
Nani, Mrunal, Kiara in a still from Hi Nanna
First-time director Shouryuv’s Hi Nanna, featuring Nani, Mrunal Thakur, and Kiara Khanna in pivotal roles, alongside supporting performances by Jayaram, Priyadarshi, and Angad Bedi, narrates the poignant tale of a father and his daughter. In contrast to the intense and brutal narrative of last week’s film, Animal, which explored the intricate dynamics between a father and his son, this week’s release emerges as a soothing balm for the bruised spirit.
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Viraj (Nani) is a single father and photographer, his life centers around his six-year-old daughter Mahi (Kiara Khanna), her grandfather (Jayaram), and their dog, Pluto, an integral part of their story. Viraj spends his days capturing images of models and his evenings devoted to caring for his home and daughter as a single parent. While Mahi is curious about her mother, Viraj evades the topic, reluctant to disclose the truth. One day, Mahi encounters Yashna (Mrunal Thakur), who encourages Viraj to share his story. However, the ensuing narrative takes unexpected turns for both of them.
Shouryuv’s film, spanning 2 hours and 35 minutes, caters to those with patience. If you seek a rapidly unfolding, conventionally entertaining story with fights, exaggerated dramatic moments, and lively songs, this may not be the right fit. However, if you appreciate an emotionally charged love story that takes its time to develop characters and unfolds at a leisurely pace, then this film is tailored for you. While some ‘twists’ might be foreseeable, Shouryuv’s storytelling captivates, providing an engaging cinematic experience.
The narrative heavily relies on the performances of Nani, Mrunal, and Kiara, and these three actors make you genuinely support their characters. Nani portrays Viraj flawlessly, a single father determined to fight for his daughter against formidable odds. If you share a loving relationship with your father, it’s challenging not to see him reflected in this character. Kiara is charming and effortlessly embodies her role, showcasing skill even in the film’s emotional scenes. Mrunal is the emotional core of the movie, portraying a complex character that is far from ordinary, yet she makes us feel affection for her even during her challenging moments. The canine actor that takes on the role of Pluto is undeniably adorable, and Priyadarshi adds a touch of humor to the film.
The movie primarily unfolds in Mumbai, Coonoor, and Goa, providing picturesque and romantic scenery. Shouryuv, in his remarkable debut, demonstrates a clear understanding of his craft. Sanu Varghese’s cinematography is a joy, complemented by the delightful music of Hesham Abdul Wahab. Although the songs may not become constant favorites, they seamlessly integrate into the narrative and occasionally enhance the scenes. The track “Odiyamma” (featuring a cameo by Shruti Haasan) stands out as the only one feeling out of place, extending the runtime unnecessarily.
The film, titled Hi Nanna, may not reach the heights of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, as Shouryuv had promised. If you’re familiar with romantic dramas like Definitely, Maybe, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, or The Notebook, some of Hi Nanna’s key moments may be predictable. Despite Shouryuv adding his touch to these moments, it doesn’t dismiss the fact that Viraj’s backstory is somewhat cliché. A revelation before the interval adds weight to the second half. The inclusion of drunk comedy to alleviate the heaviness doesn’t quite succeed. However, the film’s conclusion more than compensates for it, as it genuinely has its heart in the right place. Without giving away spoilers, it’s safe to say that Viraj, Mahi, Yashna, and Pluto find themselves exactly where they belong.
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