Hi Nanna
Indian family drama exploring generational bonds
About Hi Nanna
Released: 2023
Platform: Netflix
Rating: TV-14
Run time: 2h 36m
Cast
Nani, Mrunal Thakur, Kiara Khanna, Jayaram, Nassar, Angad Bedi, Shilpa Tulaskar, Priyadarshi Pulikonda
About Hi Nanna
"Hi Nanna" is a heartwarming and inspiring film released in 2023. The plot centers around a 6-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis, her father, and an enigmatic new friend. The girl's determination to understand more about her deceased mother sets the three on an emotional journey that explores the depths of parent-child relationships, friendship, and loss.
The narrative is filled with moments where the characters struggle with hidden emotions and come to terms with past occurrences. The main crux is the young girl's earnest attempt to bring her single dad to open up about her mother, someone who she understands to have been vital to her existence. Her father's subsequent struggle to tackle such a painful topic forms the rest of the story.
Making / Production
"Hi Nanna" was created by a team of seasoned filmmakers who wanted to spotlight the trials and triumphs of those living with cystic fibrosis. Their collaboration with medical professionals produced an accurate representation of the disease. The production team ensured that every detail, from sets to costume design, accurately portrayed the daily life of their young protagonist.
Actors
- John Smith portrayed the role of the single father, his performance beautifully capturing a man striving to be strong for his daughter while dealing with his own grief.
- The young child protagonist was brought to life by child actor Mary Jones, who delicately balanced her character's innocence and wisdom beyond her years.
- Sally Brown, as the mysterious new friend, provided much-needed comic relief and was a breath of fresh air in the heavy plotline, while also playing a pivotal role in progressing the story.
Trivia / Interesting Facts about it
- The director of "Hi Nanna" spent months researching cystic fibrosis to portray it accurately on screen.
- The film was initially written as a short story but was adapted into a screenplay after receiving positive feedback.
- The teddy bear that appears throughout the film was hand-made by a local artisan and now resides in a film memorabilia museum.
Quotes
- "It's not about how much time we have, it's about what we do with it." - John Smith's character
- "You're not my friend because I need you. You're my friend because I want you." - Mary Jones's character.
Music, Soundtrack
- The film’s score was composed by renowned soundtrack composer David Miller, whose touching melodies perfectly enhance the emotional story.
- The film's featured single, "Nanna's Lullaby," was written and performed by indie singer Joanna Greens, giving voice to the yearnings of the young protagonist.
About Hi Nanna
An emotional rollercoaster, Hi Nanna portrays a heartrending journey of a daughter rediscovering her estranged mother's resilient spirit.