Genre: Romance/Drama
Language: Hindi
Release Date: 2021
Love Story (2021): Overview
“Love Story” is a 2021 Indian Telugu-language musical romantic drama directed by Sekhar Kammula. The film stars Naga Chaitanya and Sai Pallavi in lead roles, depicting the story of Revanth, a lower-caste Christian who runs a Zumba center, and Mounika, an upper-caste woman struggling to find a job in Hyderabad. Their love story reflects societal issues like caste discrimination and explores their journey as they pursue their dreams while overcoming their differences.
Production and Filming
The film was announced in June 2019, and principal photography began in September of the same year. It was shot extensively in Hyderabad and Dubai. The shooting was interrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 and resumed in September, with completion in November 2020. Sai Pallavi not only acted but also choreographed one of the film’s songs.
Release and Box Office Performance
Initially set for release in April 2020, “Love Story” faced several delays due to the pandemic and eventually premiered on 24 September 2021. The film was a commercial success, grossing ₹60 crore worldwide, with ₹8.75 crore earned on its first day in India. It became one of the highest-grossing films in the post-pandemic era.
Critical Reception
Critics gave mixed reviews, praising the performances of Chaitanya and Pallavi but criticizing the film’s lengthy runtime and rushed climax. The Times of India and Hindustan Times highlighted the strong chemistry between the leads, while other reviews critiqued its predictable plot and the film’s handling of sensitive themes.
Music and Home Media
The film’s music was composed by debutant Pawan Ch, a student of A.R. Rahman’s KM Music Conservatory. The soundtrack, released in September 2021, was well-received. After its theatrical run, “Love Story” premiered on Aha in October 2021 and was later aired on Sony Max in Hindi in February 2022.
Controversy
The film was embroiled in controversy when singer Komala, who had previously performed the folk song “Saranga Dariya,” claimed she wasn’t credited in the film’s version. Director Kammula responded, assuring that Komala would be compensated and credited accordingly.
