From an assistant direct to a natural star, Nani’s journey was not easy. He had his ups and downs. He tasted failures just like he enjoyed his hits. With movies like Ashta Chamma, Ala Modhalaindhi, Pilla Zamindar, Yevade Subramanyam, Ninnu Kori; Nani justified his tagline. All those movies proved that Nani is a natural, but Jersey brought out a real actor from him. There is a one particular scene which not only made audience cry but it also made them connect to Arjun and feel his pain. That is none other than the so-called “railway station scene”. In that scene, Arjun will be filled with joy and uncontrollable emotions that he is selected for the team and he goes to the railway station to cry out of happiness and relieve the pain in his chest. The emotions he portray and the way he expresses them in that scene, makes us fall in love with his acting. I personally felt the ache in my throat while watching. Not to forget that beautiful scene between Nani and Arjun where Arjun sees an article about him pasted on his son’s cupboard. And the conversation between them is wonderfully versed and potrayed. Besides the conversation, the expression Arjun puts up when Nani replies with “Aadu Nanna, nuvvu aadithe hero laa untav” can never be forgotten. Arjun …sorry Nani mesmerised us with his natural expressions. Besides the expressions, his body language while playing cricket made us believe that he is a real cricketer. The hard work and dedication he put towards the film made this movie one of his finest.

Direction:
Besides the amazing story line, Gowtham Tinnanuri’s direction is a major plus point for the film. He has a beautiful way to showcase the feelings and expressions of the characters. His previous film Malli Raava also proved this point. He has a unique style wherein he drags us into the lives of the characters instead of just showing them on screen. The way he picturized both Arjun, a raging-youngster in the past and Arjun, a calm-adult in the present; depicts Gowtham’s brilliance.

Cast and characters:
Talking about the cast, Nani moulded himself in such a way that, throughout the movie, we can only see Arjun rather than Nani. We cannot imagine any person other than Nani as Arjun. He rocked both as a young cricketer and a jobless father. Shraddha did an incredible job as a responsible wife. Though it is her debut film in Telugu, our audience were able to connect to her. Be it her beauty or her performance. And coming to the versatile actor Satyaraj, who plays the coach and a warm well wisher to Arjun, excelled in his role. He supports Arjun throughout and sees himself in Arjun. Ronit’s cuteness and his dialogue delivery made the audience fall in love with this child artist.

Cinematography :
Besides the brilliant performance of the cast, Sanu Varghese’s cinematography also did wonders. Sanu’s camera work did bring the feeling of watching an old classic. So every time a scene or song crosses our mind, the lighting and camera work will pop up. As he said that he never work for a brand for himself, but instead focuses on getting a grip on the craft, he proved himself.

Music :
If the cast and narration of the story sums up to be the heart for this film, the music given by Anirudh is the soul. This young talent, never disappoints in giving soulful and melodious songs. “Adhento Gaani Vunnapaatuga”, gives a fresh feeling to the ears.

Final verdict:
The film won many awards in various categories. This film remains close to audience’s hearts as it covers various emotions from middle class problems to a beautiful relationship between a father and a son. We never feel as the story is carried away or it is dragged. Each and every scene between Arjun and Nani, Arjun and the Coach Murthy or Arjun and Sarah presents the heart-warming moments and how they support each others despite the ups and downs. We not only connect to the film, but we feel a little ache in our hearts while watching the climax. We laugh at Nani’s wit, we cry for Arjun and his problems, we will love how Arjun plays and starts his career again for the love of his son. If you haven’t watched the film yet, go grab few tissues and get ready for an emotional ride through the film.