Hi Nanna vs Extra Ordinary Man - Nani’s drama has the edge but Nithiin’s entertainer may catch up soon

Four Telugu films were to clash at the theatres the coming weekend initially - Hi Nanna, Extra Ordinary Man, Operation Valentine and Gangs of Godavari. While Vishwak Sen’s Gangs of Godavari faced unexpected delays with its shoot, Varun Tej’s aviation drama Operation Valentine opted out of the box office battle sans much fuss (leaving the field open to Nani and Nithiin).

Hi Nanna, directed by Shouryuv, will have a multilingual release on December 7, while Extra Ordinary Man, helmed by popular writer Vakkantham Vamsi, arrives in Telugu a day later. While there’s no doubt that the Nani, Mrunal Thakur starrer will have the early edge in terms of openings, thanks to the extravagant promotional campaign, it won’t be wise to underestimate Extra Ordinary Man.

Also read: Director Shouryuv on Hi Nanna - Intentionally chose a love story for my debut

If Hi Nanna promises to be a pleasant, feel-good drama involving a father-daughter bond and a single parent’s love story, Extra Ordinary Man has an instantly accessible, familiar plot focusing on the comical escapades in the life of a junior artiste. The former has clearly overtaken Nithiin’s film with its musical appeal, but one can expect makers to cover lost ground in the coming days.

While all songs from Extra Ordinary Man are not out yet, it’ll be interesting to know how far the album is accepted by audiences, given it marks composer Harris Jayaraj’s return to Telugu cinema after a long sabbatical. In terms of the film’s treatment, it is home territory for Nithiin, who has always excelled in light-hearted entertainers. Vakkantham Vamsi’s experience may come in handy too.

Nani’s biggest strength is the trust he has earned from audiences over the years with his consistently impressive choices. Mrunal Thakur’s undeniable charm will also help Hi Nanna. It’s heartening to know how both Nani and Nithiin are quite sportive about the clash. Beyond the Hi Nanna vs Extra Ordinary Man debate, it’s going to be a good weekend for Telugu audiences.

Also read: Director Vakkantham Vamsi says Extra Ordinary Man is a ‘tasty biryani’ 

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