Uppena marks the debut of lead pair, Panjaa Vaisshnav Tej and Krithi Shetty, and for director Buchi Babu Sana, a protégé of B Sukumar. The musical album composed by Devi Sri Prasad is an instant hit and all the songs are an absolute treat to the ears. Though Uppena is the first movie for the director and the lead pair, the buzz is immense, thanks to all the pre-release publicity material. The teaser, trailer, songs and all the clips that released before the movie was gratifying and the movie is releasing today, amidst a positive vibe. Let us see if Uppena was able to match the expectations it set throughout the promotions.

Uppena is a poor-boy-rich-girl love story but it definitely stands apart

Aasi (Panja Vaisshnav Tej) is a fisherman whose life revolves around the sea, his father, and the love of his life, Sangeetha aka Bebamma (Krithi Shetty). Ever since his childhood, he has fallen head over heels with Bebamma and loves her unconditionally. Rayanam (Vijay Sethupathi) is Bebamma’s father and aims to set-up a fishing yard and is tied to safeguard the old-school beliefs at any cost. How these love birds face the resistance coming to their way forms the crux of Uppena.

Panja Vaisshnav Tej, Krithi Shetty, and Vijay Sethupathi steal the show with their stellar performances

While we have a love story that is told several times on the silver screen, the performance of debutantes Vaishnav Tej and Krithi Shetty is as refreshing as one could expect. Their love chemistry spells magic on the screen and is extremely engaging. Though this is their first movie, it never looked like one. They were top-notch in their act and gave a mature performance. This is yet another feather in Vijay Sethupathi’s cap. His mere presence is enough to spellbind and one can’t imagine anyone portraying this role with such finesse. Uppena truly belongs to these threesomes and the rest of the artists have done justice to their parts.

Music, visuals, and direction are strong

Devi Sri Prasad’s music and background score are the major highlights of Uppena. The background score is enthralling, and the music album will be remembered as one of the finest classics in Telugu cinema. Nee Kallu Neeli Samudhram and Jala Jala Jalapaatham stand out. While the story is set at the backdrop of a sea, Shamdat Sainudeen has taken full advantage of it and came up with some extra-ordinary visuals. Naveen Nooli had a good time with his scissors at the editing table. Debutante director Buchi Babu’s direction and the narrative pattern seemed like a carbon copy of his master, Sukumar. He was successful in getting the best out of his cast and technical crew. Special credit is warranted for his sentiment dialogues and the unusual climax.

WATCH OR NOT

Uppena is a must-watch love entertainer that will take you to another world. You will feel like you are on a seashore while watching the movie. Splendid performances and excellent teamwork make it an absolute treat for movie lovers, especially for fans of romantic films.

Director: Buchi Babu Sana
Writer: Buchi Babu Sana
Cast: Panja Vaisshnav Tej, Vijay Sethupathi, Krithi Shetty
Music: Devi Sri Prasad
Background score: Devi Sri Prasad
Cinematography: Shamdat Sainudeen
Language: Telugu

Playing in cinemas