Review: UI The Movie - Exciting but Misdirected

 

Movie: UI
Rating:2.25/5

Cast: Upendra, Ravi Shankar, Reeshma Nanaiah, Murali Sharma, and Others

Director: Upendra

Produced By: Lahari Films, Venus Entertainers

Release Date: December 20, 2024

Story:

In an imaginary world, a diverse population coexists harmoniously until a tyrannical ruler chooses to separate them based on caste, class, and religious affiliations. Upendra tries to make a satirical movie by showing the existing issues in a different way with this story.

Performances:

Upendra was convincing as Satya and Kalki, and he entertains as much as he can with his trademark histronics. Ravi Shankar excels in some hilarious scenes while Reeshma Nanaiah, Murali Sharma, and others were okay. 

What worked in the film:

Upendra criticises various societal issues that he perceives as detrimental to humanity, such as mob mentality, caste discrimination, religious violence, addiction to Instagram, blind faith, corrupt politicians, and individuals who remain neutral without committing to a stance. Some of his ideas work well including a song on social media addiction in the second half, and also the episode of how public get fooled by politicians or leaders with small tricks. 

What did not work for the film:

Although it presents some creative concepts, UI is hindered by conventional elements that detract from the film's overall quality. Upendra attempts to present the protagonist with a grand, 'mass' appeal but falls short in execution. Several nighttime action sequences are particularly disjointed, disrupting the film's pacing. The storyline involving the heroine, Reshma Nanaiah, follows a predictable formula and culminates in a lackluster resolution. As said above, the idea of making a satirical drama on contemporary issues is interesting, but the film's narrative gets louder as it progresses.

UI Movie Review and Verdict:

Upendra's philosophical, social drama UI tries to address the unpleasant truths of modern society. The movie is set in a fantasy realm and is told satirically. Therefore, the events and narration are over the top and the engaging factor goes for a toss after a point.