Little Hearts Movie Review

Review
Cast – Mouli Tanuj, Shivani Nagaram, Rajeev Kanakala, Jaya Krishna, Anitha Chowdary, SS Kanchi, Satya Krishnan
Directors – Sai Marthand
Producers – Aditya Hasan
Banner – Bairagi Kathalu, ETV Win Original Production, Bunny Vas Works, Vamsi Nandipati Entertainments
Music – Sinjith Yerramilli
Runtime – 02 Hrs 07 Mins
Genre – Romance Comedy
Release Date – 05-09-2025

Background
Set in the nostalgic year of 2015, “Little Hearts” attempts to capture the innocence and chaos of post-intermediate life. The film is a breezy romantic comedy that leans heavily on the quirks of its characters and the relatability of its setting. Director Sai Marthand, in his debut, chooses a grounded approach, avoiding melodrama and instead focusing on everyday teenage dilemmas. Producer Aditya Hasan, known for his work on “90’s – A Middle Class Biopic,” brings his signature slice-of-life tone to the big screen. The film’s visual palette is warm and familiar, echoing the coaching centers and homes of middle-class India. With a cast that includes social media stars and seasoned actors, the movie blends fresh energy with mature performances. The music by Sinjith Yerramilli adds emotional depth, especially in key moments. The production design subtly recreates the mid-2010s with props like old smartphones and Baahubali posters. The film promises a light-hearted escape from intense dramas and delivers a story that’s easy to digest. It’s a film that doesn’t aim to shock but to comfort, making it ideal for casual viewing.

Plot
Akhil, played by Mouli, is a carefree engineering aspirant more interested in snacks and friends than studies. After failing entrance exams, he joins a coaching center where he meets Kathyayini, portrayed by Shivani. Their relationship begins with awkward flirtation and slowly blossoms into mutual affection. The story follows their journey through academic pressure, parental expectations, and emotional growth. As their bond deepens, they face challenges that test their commitment. The narrative avoids heavy conflict, focusing instead on small, relatable hurdles. The climax arrives with a quiet resolution rather than dramatic twists. The film ends on a note of subtle maturity, reflecting the characters’ growth.

Artists Performances
Mouli Tanuj brings his signature comic timing and expressive subtlety to Akhil, making the character instantly likable. Shivani Nagaram stands out with her composed portrayal of Kathyayini, balancing restraint and emotion. Rajeev Kanakala shines as Akhil’s father, delivering humor and warmth in equal measure. Anitha Chowdary and Satya Krishnan add depth to the parental roles, avoiding clichés. SS Kanchi’s presence adds a layer of grounded realism. Jaya Krishna steals scenes with his impeccable comic delivery and mimicry. The chemistry between Mouli and Jaya Krishna is a highlight, offering genuine laughs. Supporting actors elevate the narrative without overshadowing the leads. The ensemble cast works in harmony, enhancing the film’s slice-of-life tone.

Technicalities
The cinematography is clean and functional, capturing the essence of middle-class neighborhoods and coaching centers. Editing is crisp, maintaining a steady pace without unnecessary detours. The production design effectively recreates the 2015–2017 vibe with authentic props. Costumes reflect the characters’ personalities and social backgrounds. Sound design is subtle, supporting the narrative without overwhelming it. The background score by Sinjith Yerramilli enhances emotional beats, especially in reunion scenes. The screenplay avoids melodrama, opting for realism and restraint. Dialogues are natural, often humorous, and occasionally poignant. Direction by Sai Marthand is confident, though slightly conservative in conflict resolution. Overall, the technical team delivers a cohesive and pleasant viewing experience.

Positives

• Relatable and endearing characters
• Strong comedic performances, especially by Jaya Krishna
• Memorable music and background score
• Short and engaging runtime

Negatives

• Weak central conflict limits emotional depth
• Climax feels rushed and underdeveloped
• Lack of dramatic tension may reduce impact for some viewers

Analysis
“Little Hearts” is a film that knows exactly what it wants to be—a light-hearted romantic comedy with no pretensions. It opens with Akhil’s carefree lifestyle, immediately drawing the audience into his world of snacks, friends, and failed exams. The introduction of Kathyayini brings a shift in tone, introducing emotional stakes without overwhelming the narrative. Their relationship unfolds organically, with moments of humor, awkwardness, and genuine affection. The film excels in portraying the nuances of teenage love, especially in scenes where Akhil tries to impress Kathyayini with his antics. The supporting cast adds layers of humor and realism, making the world feel lived-in and authentic. Rajeev Kanakala’s scenes with Mouli are particularly enjoyable, blending fatherly concern with comic timing. The film avoids dramatic confrontations, choosing instead to show conflict through subtle gestures—like a mother cleaning broken bangles to imply off-screen violence. This restraint is both a strength and a limitation. While it keeps the tone consistent, it also prevents the film from reaching emotional highs. The climax, though touching, feels hurried, leaving some narrative threads loosely tied. However, the film’s charm lies in its simplicity. It doesn’t aim to be groundbreaking but succeeds in being comforting and entertaining. The music plays a crucial role in elevating key moments, especially the pre-climax reunion. The direction is steady, with Sai Marthand showing promise in handling character-driven stories. The screenplay is tight, avoiding unnecessary subplots. The humor is consistent, with Jaya Krishna delivering standout moments. The film’s visual style is modest but effective, reflecting the everyday settings of its characters. Editing ensures a smooth flow, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The lack of intense drama might disappoint viewers seeking emotional catharsis, but for those looking for a feel-good experience, “Little Hearts” delivers. It’s a film best enjoyed with friends or family, offering laughs, nostalgia, and a gentle reminder of youthful innocence. The balance between comedy and romance is well-maintained, making it a pleasant watch. While not without flaws, the film’s sincerity and warmth make it worth the time. It’s a testament to the power of simple storytelling, proving that you don’t need grand gestures to make an impact. The performances, especially by Shivani and Mouli, anchor the film, making the characters memorable. The technical aspects support the narrative without drawing attention to themselves. In the end, “Little Hearts” is a small film with a big heart, offering a refreshing break from high-stakes dramas.

Final verdict :- a breezy rom-com that charms more than it challenges
Rating :- 2.8/5