‘Drinker Sai’ review: A promising debut

"Drinker Sai," directed by Kiran Thirumalasetti, introduces a fresh face to the Telugu film industry with Dharma playing the lead role. The film, which also marks the debut of Aishwarya Sharma as the female lead, has garnered attention for its unique blend of crime, romance, and a dash of dark comedy. Produced by 7G Films Shiva and Alpha Frames, the film promises an interesting mix of elements as per the promotional stuff. Let’s delve deeper into the film.

Story:

"Drinker Sai" revolves around Sai (Dharma), a carefree young man who spends his days enjoying life at the hospital his parents built, drinking and partying with his friends. His life takes a turn when he meets Bhagi (Aishwarya Sharma), a woman he accidentally injures. Despite her initial reluctance due to Sai's drinking habits, Bhagi finds herself caught in a complicated situation as Sai pursues her with relentless affection. The film explores their journey of forced love, with a question at the heart of it: Will Sai be able to change for Bhagi, and can she ever love him back? The narrative weaves through various emotional ups and downs, making it a journey of personal growth and transformation.

Performances:

Dharma, with his natural ease and confidence, delivers a commendable performance as Sai. His portrayal of a flawed yet charming character is both relatable and engaging, bringing a fresh energy to the screen. Aishwarya Sharma, playing the role of Bhagi, impresses with her vibrant presence and nuanced performance. She handles the emotional depth of her character with grace, making her a standout in the film. The supporting cast, including Kirrak Sita and Ritu Choudhary, contribute well, though the comedic aspects could have been more impactful.

Technicalities:

The music by Sri Vasant is a major highlight of the film. The background score elevates several emotional moments, creating an immersive experience. Prashanth Ankireddy’s cinematography is solid, capturing the film's essence despite its budget constraints. The visuals are crisp, and while the brightness in some scenes feels slightly overdone, the overall aesthetic is visually appealing. However, where the director becomes successful is in its storytelling. The narrative has the punch needed to carry the film forward, and managed to have consistent engagement.

Analysis:

While "Drinker Sai" features strong performances and a unique premise, the film struggles to maintain its momentum at a point. The use of double-meaning humor and adult references feels outdated, and the emotional payoff falls short due to inconsistent character arcs. The film explores a different narrative style, where it capitalizes on its potential. Dharma and Aishwarya’s performances are the film's saving grace, but the lack of a cohesive and gripping story hinders its overall impact.

On a whole, "Drinker Sai" is an interesting experiment with an unconventional storyline, but its lackluster direction and inconsistent pacing prevent it from truly standing out. However, with strong performances from the lead actors, it shows potential for the future of its talented cast.