‘Ee Saraina?!’ Review : A Heartfelt Rural Story of Dreams and Romance

Movie Title: Ee Saraina?!

Release Date: 8th November 2024

Rating: 3.5/5

Cast:  Viplav.G, Ashwini Ayaluru, Pradeep Raparthi, Mehaboob Basha, Karthikeya Dev, Nithu Supraja, Srikar Reddy

Director: Viplav.G

Producers: Viplav, Sankreeth Konda

Production Banner: Reading Films

Music Composer: The Tej

Cinematographer: Giri Jackson

Editor: Viplav.G

Ee Saaraina?! is an ambitious and heartfelt film that marks the debut of Viplav, not only as the lead actor but also as the director, producer, and editor. With compelling promotional material and high expectations, this film arrives in theaters to tell a simple yet powerful story. How does it measure up to the hype?

Storyline:

The film follows Raju (played by Viplav), a young man who has been jobless for four years despite his educational qualifications. His dream of securing a government job becomes his obsession, but he faces a series of failures with each recruitment notification. Amidst this struggle, he finds support and companionship in Shirisha (Ashwini Ayaluru), a village school teacher who slowly becomes the love of his life. The couple’s growing romance faces a major obstacle when Shirisha’s father (Pradeep Raparthi), a strict but humorous figure, insists that Raju must land a government job before he will approve of their relationship. The heart of the film revolves around Raju’s journey to fulfill his dreams, earn his father-in-law’s approval, and win Shirisha’s heart.

Performances:

Viplav’s portrayal of Raju is both earnest and compelling. He effectively captures the struggle of a young man with big dreams but limited opportunities, making his character relatable to the audience. Ashwini Ayaluru shines in her role as Shirisha, bringing grace and empathy to her character, making her the perfect foil to Raju’s determination. Pradeep Raparthi’s portrayal of Shirisha’s father is a highlight, combining strictness with comic relief, adding a fun dynamic to the film. Mahboob Basha, as Raju’s friend, brings humor and light-hearted moments to the story. The performances of the child actors, Karthikeya Dev and Nithu Supraja, who play younger versions of Raju and Shirisha, are also worth noting, as they contribute to the film’s emotional resonance.

Technical Aspects:

Viplav, handling multiple roles in this project, has done a commendable job, especially considering the limited budget. The film, shot entirely in his hometown, benefits from Giri Jackson’s cinematography, which beautifully captures the village’s landscape and adds to the authenticity of the setting. The music by The Tej is another major strength of the film. Songs like “Ye Gayamo” and “Tara Teerame” elevate the emotional tone of the narrative, while the thoughtful lyrics by Goreti Venkanna, Rakendu Mouli, and Sarath Chepuri further enhance the music’s depth. The editing by Viplav himself keeps the narrative flowing, though some scenes in the first half feel slightly drawn out.

Analysis:

While Ee Saraina?! carries a familiar storyline about pursuing one’s dreams and overcoming obstacles, it presents the theme in a fresh light, thanks to its earnest execution and relatability. The film excels in showcasing the emotional highs and lows of Raju’s journey, particularly with its engaging second half, where drama and comedy blend seamlessly. However, the first half does suffer from occasional pacing issues, with a few scenes that could have been trimmed down for a quicker build-up. The film also features mostly newcomers in the cast, which could limit its mass appeal but works in its favor for those looking for fresh faces and a different approach to storytelling.

Conclusion:

Ee Saaraina?! is a heartwarming romantic drama that strikes a balance between humor, emotion, and inspiration. Viplav’s debut, both in front of and behind the camera, is promising, and the film as a whole reflects his passion and determination. With solid performances, captivating music, and a simple yet powerful narrative, the film is a feel-good watch for those who enjoy stories about resilience, love, and the pursuit of dreams. Despite its minor flaws, it is a movie that resonates with today’s youth and anyone who has ever dreamed of overcoming life’s challenges.