Natural Star Nani introduces audiences to the world of heartfelt romance in his latest offering, “Hi Nanna.” This enchanting tale features the talented duo of Mrunal Thakur and the adorable Baby Kaira Khanna, under the direction of debutant Shouryuv. Having attended an exclusive premiere, let’s delve into the cinematic experience.
Plot Overview:
The protagonist, Viraj (Nani), dons the role of a professional photographer and a single parent to his 6-year-old daughter, Mahii (Baby Kaira Khanna). Despite Mahii’s persistent inquiries about her mother, Viraj remains tight-lipped. However, a promise is made – Viraj will reveal details about his wife only if Mahii secures the top rank in her class. As Mahii accomplishes this feat, Viraj hesitates to uphold his end of the bargain, leading to Mahii leaving home. A chance encounter with Yashna (Mrunal Thakur) alters the course of their lives, forming the crux of the narrative.
Highlights:
“Hi Nanna” unfolds with a compelling storyline, rich in dramatic and emotional elements. Mrunal Thakur’s portrayal stands out as the heart and soul of the film, showcasing her excellent script selection post “Sita Ramam.” Debutant director Shouryuv adeptly navigates emotional nuances, complemented by well-executed twists. Nani effortlessly essays the role of Viraj, delivering a performance that tugs at the heartstrings. The chemistry between Nani and Mrunal adds another layer of charm.
Baby Kiara Khanna charms audiences with her confident dialogue delivery and endearing scenes alongside Nani and Mrunal. The film’s closing moments leave a lasting impression, with Hesham Abdul Wahab’s music, excluding the Odiyamma song, contributing significantly. The film’s soothing soundtrack, coupled with visually pleasing aesthetics, enhances the overall storytelling.
Areas of Improvement:
While the initial segments of the love story lack novelty, the writing could have been more refined. The film gains momentum post the pre-interval sequence, but the pacing may test the patience of some viewers. “Hi Nanna” might resonate more with A-center audiences than the masses. The inclusion of Shruti Haasan’s song in the second half feels misplaced and disrupts the narrative flow. Additionally, an impactful scene following this song falls short in execution, and the coherence in the second hour wavers.
Technical Aspects:
Hesham Abdul Wahab’s music and background score elevate the film, except for the unnecessary Odiyamma song. Sanu John Varghese’s visuals and the production values contribute to the film’s splendid visual appeal, although the editing is deemed average.
In his debut venture, director Shouryuv impresses with an interesting storyline and dialogues infused with depth. The film’s narrative, while slow-paced, features poignant emotional scenes, complemented by commendable performances. However, a shorter runtime could have enhanced the overall impact.
Verdict:
“Hi Nanna” emerges as a commendable family drama, replete with emotional highs. Nani, Mrunal Thakur, and Baby Kiara Khanna deliver noteworthy performances, supported by a compelling storyline and captivating music. While the film may not resonate strongly with mass audiences due to pacing concerns and presentation lapses in certain segments, it remains a worthwhile watch for enthusiasts of emotional dramas. Consider this film for a heartwarming experience this weekend.