Drinker Sai Movie Review: A Familiar Tale of Love, Addiction, and Redemption

Story: Sai (Dharma), a wealthy orphan whose life spirals into alcoholism following the demise of his parents. His days are consumed by drinking and unruly behaviour, often leading to altercations and run-ins with the law, from which his uncle (Srikanth Iyengar) frequently rescues him. An accidental encounter with Bhagi (Aishwarya Sharma), a disciplined medical student and firm believer in naturopathy, ignites a one-sided love affair. Despite Bhagi’s initial disinterest and feigned affection out of fear, Sai’s relentless pursuit challenges both their lives, culminating in a narrative that explores themes of love, addiction, and personal transformation.

Review: Drinker Sai attempts to blend a youthful love story with a cautionary tale about the perils of alcoholism. Dharma delivers a commendable performance as Sai, embodying the character’s descent into addiction with a natural ease and handling emotional scenes adeptly. Aishwarya Sharma, in her debut role as Bhagi, brings a refreshing presence to the screen, portraying her character’s conflict with conviction. The film’s music, composed by Sri Vasanth, offers pleasant melodies, though their placement within the narrative occasionally disrupts the pacing. Prashanth Ankireddy’s cinematography captures the essence of the story well, contributing to the film’s overall visual appeal.

However, the film is hindered by a predictable storyline and a screenplay that lacks the necessary depth to fully engage the audience. The narrative’s pacing suffers from filler scenes that add little value, and the second half, in particular, feels protracted with unnecessary subplots. The depiction of certain characters and situations, especially involving junior artistes, raises questions about the film’s sensitivity and awareness. While the movie aims to deliver a social message, the execution is marred by clichéd dialogues and a lack of subtlety.

In conclusion, Drinker Sai presents a familiar tale with earnest performances but falters in its storytelling and execution. The film may resonate with audiences seeking a message-oriented drama, but it falls short of offering a fresh cinematic experience.