Name: Miss. Shetty Mr. Polishetty
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Thriller
Released: 2023-09-07T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Anushka Shetty, Naveen Polishetty, Murali Sharma, Tulasi, Harsha Vardhan

The opening scene of Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty is a stark kitchen in London, where Anushka Shetty’s Anvitha Ravali Shetty chops vegetables with a precision that borders on aggression. It’s a moment that encapsulates her character: a woman who has built walls around herself after the failure of her parents’ marriage. Directed by Mahesh Babu P in his debut feature, this romantic comedy-drama is a story about love, loss, and the messy business of human connection.

Anvitha, a 38-year-old chef living in the UK, decides she wants a child but not a husband. Her journey to find the perfect sperm donor leads her to Sidhu Polishetty (Naveen Polishetty), a stand-up comedian from Hyderabad. The film’s strength lies in its exploration of Anvitha’s complex emotions and her fear of marriage stemming from her parents’ divorce. Anushka Shetty delivers a powerful performance, bringing depth and vulnerability to her character. Her scenes with Jayasudha, who plays her mother, are particularly poignant, highlighting the emotional core of the film.

Shetty’s portrayal of Anvitha is nuanced and layered. The way she carries herself—with a mix of confidence and defensiveness—is a testament to her acting prowess. Her performance is not just about delivering lines but also about conveying emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language. For instance, when Anvitha reveals her plan to have a child through IVF using Sidhu as the donor, Shetty’s delivery is both firm and vulnerable, making the scene emotionally charged.

Naveen Polishetty is equally compelling as Sidhu, a man who falls in love with Anvitha despite her unconventional approach to motherhood. His stand-up comedy routines, seamlessly integrated into the narrative, add a layer of humor and authenticity to his character. Polishetty’s performance is relatable and endearing, making it easy for the audience to root for him. The chemistry between Shetty and Polishetty is palpable, making their romantic arc engaging and believable.

The film’s cinematography by Nirav Shah is visually striking, with London’s urban landscape contrasting beautifully with the more intimate, emotional scenes. Gopi Sundar’s score complements the narrative perfectly, enhancing the film’s dramatic and comedic moments. The music, particularly during the emotional scenes, adds a layer of depth that resonates with the audience.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The pacing in the second act feels uneven at times, with some plot points feeling rushed or underdeveloped. Additionally, the transition from Anvitha’s decision to use IVF to Sidhu’s eventual acceptance of the process could have been handled with more nuance. There are moments where the narrative feels hurried, particularly when it comes to the legal and emotional complexities of IVF and donor agreements.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty is a heartfelt and engaging exploration of love and family. It challenges traditional notions of relationships and offers a fresh perspective on modern parenting. The film’s themes are universal—love, loss, and the desire for connection—but it approaches them with a unique lens that makes it stand out.

The film’s originality lies in its portrayal of a woman who is unapologetically independent and her journey towards motherhood on her own terms. It’s a refreshing departure from the typical romantic comedies where the female lead often compromises her aspirations for love. Anvitha’s character is relatable and inspiring, making the film resonate with audiences who are looking for stories that reflect their own experiences.

In terms of genre fit, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty successfully blends elements of comedy, drama, romance, and thriller. The comedic moments are well-timed and genuinely funny, while the dramatic scenes are emotionally impactful. The romantic elements are handled with sensitivity and authenticity, making the love story believable and engaging. The thriller aspects, though subtle, add a layer of tension that keeps the audience invested.

The film’s strengths lie in its performances, direction, and themes. Anushka Shetty and Naveen Polishetty deliver outstanding performances that bring depth and vulnerability to their characters. Mahesh Babu P’s direction is impressive for a debut feature, with a keen eye for detail and a ability to balance humor and drama effectively.

In conclusion, Miss Shetty Mr. Polishetty is a film that will appeal to audiences looking for a heartfelt and engaging exploration of love and family. It challenges traditional notions of relationships and offers a fresh perspective on modern parenting.