Movie Title: Little Hearts
Language: Malayalam
Genre: Romantic Drama
Director: Aby Treesa Paul, Anto Jose Periera
Producers: Sandra Thomas
Actors: Shane Nigam, Mahima Nambiar, Shine Tom Chacko, Jaffer Idukki, Renji Panicker, Baburaj, Aima Rosmy Sebastian, Ramya Suvi
Runtime: 135 minutes
Rating: 5.8/10
Little Hearts brings together a multi-generational cast to explore themes of love, rebellion, and family in a rural Kerala setting. Directed by debutant duo Aby Treesa Paul and Anto Jose Periera, the film sets out to strike a balance between youthful romance and deeper familial emotions.
Plot Summary
Set in a picturesque hilly village, the story revolves around two parallel love stories. The central plot follows a rebellious young man (Shane Nigam) and his romantic journey with a strong-willed woman (Mahima Nambiar). In contrast, an older generation grapples with its own emotional upheavals, led by characters played by Shine Tom Chacko and Baburaj. Conflicts arise when personal desires clash with social expectations, and love is tested by both generational differences and moral dilemmas.
Direction and Screenplay
Aby Treesa Paul and Anto Jose Periera showcase potential in crafting warm, relatable moments, but the screenplay suffers from pacing issues. The film tries to juggle too many emotional threads, which dilutes its overall impact. Certain segments feel stretched, and character motivations are occasionally underexplored.
Performances
Shane Nigam delivers a restrained yet effective performance, adding charm to the role. Mahima Nambiar complements him well, showcasing emotional depth. Shine Tom Chacko stands out in his layered portrayal, while veterans like Baburaj and Renji Panicker provide dependable support. Aima Rosmy and Jaffer Idukki also add moments of lightness and sincerity.
Technical Aspects
The cinematography captures the serene beauty of the high ranges, enhancing the film’s rural texture. The music and background score by Kailas Menon are soothing but not particularly memorable. Editing could have been tighter, especially in the second half.
Strengths
- Scenic cinematography that enhances the rural vibe
- Solid performances by Shane Nigam, Shine Tom Chacko, and Mahima Nambiar
- Emotional themes with intergenerational appeal
Weaknesses
- Uneven pacing disrupts engagement
- Lack of narrative focus, especially in the second half
- Predictable conflicts with minimal freshness
Final Verdict
Little Hearts is a sincere attempt at romantic family drama that delivers on performances and visual beauty but falls short in narrative cohesiveness. While it has heartwarming moments, the lack of a tight screenplay makes it an average watch.
Recommended for
Fans of emotional dramas, admirers of Shane Nigam’s acting, and viewers looking for light romantic tales with a family backdrop.