Director: Yashwanth M.
Genre: Action, Drama
Cast: Yashwanth M, Disha Shetty, Harish V, Raichur Devaraj, and Premalatha
Duration: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Rating: 1.5/5
Age Rating: U/A (Suitable for 16+)
In a time when Kannada cinema is exploring bolder narratives and innovative filmmaking, Nan Poli arrives as an earnest throwback to the storytelling styles of decades past. Directed by and starring Yashwanth M., the film attempts to blend nostalgic elements with a gritty action-drama template. However, the final product feels outdated and underwhelming, despite its sincere intentions.
Plot & Narrative
The story centers around themes of friendship, love, loyalty, and justice — familiar motifs in Indian cinema. Yashwanth M. portrays the central character, whose journey unfolds in a small-town backdrop peppered with emotional conflict and intense confrontations. Though the foundation is solid, the screenplay doesn’t dig deep enough. Predictable plot twists, clichéd dialogue, and underdeveloped characters weigh down the narrative, making it difficult for the audience to stay invested.
Performances
Yashwanth M. takes on dual roles as lead actor and director, which is commendable, but unfortunately, the effort doesn’t fully translate onscreen. While his performance shows dedication, it lacks the subtlety and dynamism needed to elevate the film. Disha Shetty adds a fresh presence but is underutilized. Supporting actors Harish V, Raichur Devaraj, and Premalatha deliver honest performances, but even their efforts are constrained by a script that doesn’t allow much range.
Technical Aspects
Visually, Nan Poli struggles to stand out. The cinematography feels functional rather than expressive, and the film’s editing lacks the tightness needed for an action drama. The pacing falters in key scenes, especially in the second half, which drags without offering substantial development.
The music and background score — often a saving grace in dramas — fail to make a lasting impression. There are moments when the soundtrack feels mismatched to the tone of the scenes, further breaking immersion.
Direction & Vision
Yashwanth M.’s direction shows a clear love for the cinema of yesteryears. His intention to recreate that old-school vibe is admirable, but it highlights a critical flaw: nostalgia alone isn’t enough. For a film to resonate today, it must bridge the past with the present — both in theme and execution. Nan Poli leans too heavily on the former, neglecting the modern cinematic language audiences now expect.
Final Verdict
Nan Poli is a film that clearly comes from a place of passion. Its attempt to revive the emotional and action-packed storytelling style of older Kannada films is evident. However, without a compelling script, sharper editing, and more nuanced direction, the film struggles to leave a lasting impact. For audiences looking for nostalgia, it may offer brief moments of charm, but for those seeking freshness or emotional depth, the film may fall short.
Our Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (1.5/5)
An old-school effort that lacks the power to stand tall in today’s cinematic landscape.