EPIC ~ Movie Early Premiere Review & Rating

A Aditya Hasan’s EPIC

Some films create curiosity even before they arrive on the big screen, and EPIC is one such film. Ever since the project was announced, the film has generated interest, particularly because of its connection to the much-loved kid character from #90s. The character we knew as a child has now grown into a young boy with dreams of becoming a filmmaker. However, circumstances and family pressure lead him to choose higher education abroad, putting his own dreams on the back burner.

That premise sets the stage for a story that combines dreams, friendship, love, family emotions and nostalgia.

Story & Execution

The biggest strength of EPIC is the clarity with which the story is presented. The narrative maintains a good balance between its emotional portions, humour, relationships and nostalgic elements.

For a debut feature filmmaker, Aditya Hasan shows considerable promise in his approach to storytelling. The execution feels confident, and the way the characters and their emotions are established makes the film engaging.

The story of a young boy who leaves his dreams behind and goes abroad because of family expectations is particularly relatable. It reflects the dilemma faced by many youngsters, especially those from middle-class families, who often have to choose between their ambitions and their family’s expectations.

Friendship, Love & Emotions

The emotional relationship between the hero and heroine forms an important part of the film, and this portion works particularly well.

Their friendship gradually develops into love without feeling forced. The innocence of the hero’s character adds a beautiful layer to their relationship, while his understanding of the girl’s pain gives their journey an emotional depth.

The innocence of the hero is one of the film’s biggest highlights. There is a particular scene where the heroine sees him as a child, and that moment beautifully captures the innocence and emotional connection between them. It stands out as one of the film’s EPIC moments.

Family Emotions

The family portions are another strong aspect of the film.

The bond between the parents and their younger child is portrayed naturally, particularly the mother’s affection and the way she takes care of him. These moments feel grounded and relatable rather than overly dramatic.

One particular scene involving the father’s phone call to his son who is abroad is emotionally effective. It is the kind of scene that can instantly connect with every middle-class youngster who has left home carrying dreams, responsibilities and expectations.

Comedy & Dialogues

EPIC also gets its humour right.

The comedy scenes, punch dialogues and situational humour provide plenty of entertaining moments without completely taking the audience away from the emotional core of the story. The funny dialogues are one of the areas where Aditya Hasan gets the balance right, allowing the film to remain light and enjoyable even during its emotional journey.

The detailing deserves special mention as well. The film understands its target audience and uses several familiar references that instantly trigger nostalgia.

The ’90s Connect

One of the most enjoyable aspects of EPIC is the way it connects with the ’90s generation.

The makers have carefully incorporated nostalgic elements into the narrative rather than simply using them as references. The use of the familiar Amrutham serial music and the scene where the hero and heroine watch Venky while eating are examples of details that can create an instant personal connection with ’90s kids.

These moments feel less like forced nostalgia and more like memories that naturally belong to the characters and their world.

Visuals & Music

Visually, EPIC is a treat.

The cinematography stands out, with the DOP delivering top-notch visuals and mesmerising frames throughout the film. The visual treatment complements both the emotional and lighter portions of the story, giving the film a polished feel.

The music is another major strength. The songs fit well into the narrative, while the background score effectively supports the emotions and elevates several important moments.

The combination of strong visuals and music adds considerably to the overall experience.

Climax & What’s Next?

The film concludes on an unfinished note, with the story clearly setting up its continuation in “Second Semester.”

While the climax leaves several aspects open, it also creates curiosity about what lies ahead for the characters. Rather than offering a complete closure, the film chooses to carry the journey forward into its next chapter.

Verdict

EPIC is an engaging blend of friendship, love, family emotions, dreams, innocence, humour and ’90s nostalgia.

Aditya Hasan shows promise with his first feature film, particularly in the way he handles emotions and keeps the storytelling clear. The performances and character relationships, combined with mesmerising visuals, outstanding music, relatable dialogues and nostalgic detailing, make the film an enjoyable experience.

The emotional moments between the characters work well, the comedy provides enough laughs, and the ’90s references add an extra layer of connect for the audience.

Overall, EPIC is an emotional and entertaining weekend watch that works particularly well with friends and family.

Verdict: An EPIC watch for the weekend!

Who are the lead actors in EPIC – First Semester?

Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya play the lead roles of Aditya and Kadali.

Who directed EPIC – First Semester?

The film is written and directed by Aditya Haasan, known for 90's – A Middle Class Biopic

Is EPIC the second movie of Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya together?

Yes. EPIC – First Semester reunites Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya after their successful collaboration in Baby.

What is EPIC – First Semester about?

The film follows Aditya, a youngster who travels to the UK for higher studies and meets Kadali. Their relationship becomes the centre of a story exploring love, career ambitions, independence, family expectations and responsibilities.

Who composed the music for EPIC?

Hesham Abdul Wahab composed the film's music.

Is EPIC connected to 90's – A Middle Class Biopic?

According to Anand Deverakonda, EPIC is not a direct continuation of 90's – A Middle Class Biopic, although the story emerges from that world and carries forward some of its middle-class sensibilities into a new stage of life.

How is Shreyas Media connected with EPIC – First Semester?

Shreyas Media's association with the promotional journey of EPIC – First Semester includes major Hyderabad events such as the Trailer Launch Event and Grand Pre-Release Event, helping create prominent audience-facing moments around the film ahead of its theatrical release.

Is EPIC – First Semester worth watching?

For audiences who enjoy youthful Telugu romantic dramas built around relationships, family, career choices and contemporary emotions, EPIC – First Semester offers a fresh big-screen journey led by Anand Deverakonda and Vaishnavi Chaitanya.