Natural actor Nani has come up with a new theatrical release, Hi Nanna which released in theaters on the 7th of December. The film came with a rather low buzz owing to the weak promotional material. Let us see what the film has to offer to the audience now. 

Story: The lives of a doting father, who works as a talented assistant director with filmmaking dreams, played by Nani and his six-year-old daughter take a drastic turn when the woman he loves marries someone else. What role does Mrunal Thakur's character have to play in all this?

How did the actors perform?

Nani is a natural performer and he had no difficulties playing this complex role. He is a refined performer and puts on a show with his subtle expressions. Mrunal Thakur steals the show with her ace performance. She is tailor made for this role and she puts on an exhibition of her acting prowess. Young actress Kiara Khanna is good in her complex role. There is not much to say about the other actors as their roles are rather less prominent. 

What about the technical finesse?

Young director Shouryuv makes his directorial debut with this film and he has done an alright job at it. The opening portion of the film is very slow paced and he could've done a better job with it. Hesham's background score is in tune with the narrative. The making values are top tier and so are the aesthetically shots in Goa atmospheric. 

Analysis:

Hi Nanna is a film that relies entirely on family emotions involving a father, his daughter and his love interest. The film strikes the right chord as far as the casting goes. We see the right characters in the right roles in the film. Nani and Mrunal drive the show with their fine-tuned performances.

The starting portion of the film has a very weak vibe as the scenes are repetitive and don't have the right drive. The momentum picks up only towards the end of the first half when the narrative truly sets in. The entry of Mrunal Thakur lightens up the screen and her character gives some drive. 

The second half is loaded with emotional core and it does have the right vibe to offer an emotionally engrossing ride to the audience. The film has the right emotional connect towards the end to make for a decent viewing. 

Verdict: Hi Nanna is an attempted emotional drama with pretty good casting. Nani and Mrunal Thakur stand out in the film with their good performances. The film might connect with those who love emotional dramas.

Rating: 2.5/5