Little Hearts review: Sweet, funny, and worth a theatre visit
There was a time when every new release was an event at the cinema. Today, films are often labeled as either OTT or theatrical, and the experience of watching a movie on the big screen seems to be fading. Movies are meant to be enjoyed in theatres, so why not support quality films there?
Popular YouTuber Mouli Tanuj Prasanth makes his feature film debut with Little Hearts, a breezy romantic comedy directed by first-timer Sai Marthad. Alongside Shivani Nagaram, the film captures the innocence and charm of young love against the backdrop of academic pressures.
Plot
Akhil (Mouli) isn’t exactly a model student, though his father (Rajiv Kanakala) dreams of seeing him become an engineer. After performing poorly in his entrance exams, Akhil joins an MPC crash course, where he meets Khatyayani (Shivani Nagaram), a BiPC aspirant navigating her own challenges. Their friendship gradually turns romantic, but just as Akhil musters the courage to confess, a surprising revelation shakes him. The story then explores whether their romance can withstand personal hurdles and family expectations.
What Works
Little Hearts is genuinely laugh-out-loud funny. Mouli transitions effortlessly from YouTube to the big screen, bringing natural comic timing and a relatable presence. He avoids the exaggerated hero persona, which makes his performance feel authentic.
Shivani Nagaram complements him perfectly, adding warmth and sincerity to their chemistry. Together, they form a believable and heartwarming on-screen couple.
The supporting cast adds vibrancy and humor. Jai Krishna’s energy, Rajiv Kanakala’s seasoned performance, and Nikhil Abburi’s lighthearted moments keep the comedy flowing. Some sequences, especially Akhil’s attempts to impress Khatyayani, are genuinely amusing. A few songs are seamlessly integrated, maintaining the narrative rhythm.
What Doesn’t
The story is fairly predictable, which may make it feel dull for viewers seeking something novel.
The film also includes occasional casteist slurs in the dialogue, seemingly aimed at younger audiences. These remarks feel unnecessary and jarring in an otherwise cheerful movie.
Technical Side
Sai Marthad shows promise in his debut, particularly in handling lighthearted sequences. Suriya Balaji’s cinematography is clean, while Sinjith Yerramilli’s music sets the right mood without being intrusive. Editing by Sreedhar Sompally could have been sharper, especially in the second half, but the overall production values are solid and effective.
Little Hearts review: Final word
Little Hearts delivers a cheerful and entertaining ride, packed with laughs and a heartwarming romance. While the occasional use of casteist slurs is jarring and unnecessary, the film largely succeeds in offering a light, enjoyable experience. Young audiences, in particular, will find it engaging, making it a worthwhile watch on the big screen.
