‘Junior’ movie review: Genelia, Kireeti-starrer is a partly-entertaining, albeit dated drama-OxBig News Network

A protagonist who is almost always cheerful reiterates his desire to make memories — stories he can one day narrate to his children, and look back on fondly when he is 60. But what if this idea of memory, initially lighthearted, later becomes a haunting echo? What if a memory is so deeply hurtful that it renders another character emotionally withdrawn?

Director Radhakrishna Reddy’s Telugu-Kannada bilingual film Junior explores these possibilities through a drama that nods to the mainstream Telugu cinema of a decade or two ago. Some plot points evoke the emotional world and writing style of Trivikram Srinivas, the veteran of family dramas. While several scenes entertain and build intrigue, the film’s contrived moments might also leave seasoned viewers with a nagging sense of déjà vu.

Junior ambitiously attempts to tackle ageism, complex family dynamics, girl child empowerment, digital literacy in rural India, and corporate social responsibility, all while doubling as a launchpad for Kireeti Reddy, son of politician Gali Janardhana Reddy.

The opening campus scenes are loud and glossy, with composer Devi Sri Prasad setting a high-energy tone. Abhi (Kireeti) quite literally leaps into the frame, sprinting through college corridors in what feels like an action hero entry, minus the actual conflict. He is portrayed as the all-rounder who can ace academics, sports, and even parkour stunts, all while his perfectly gelled hair does not move an inch.

A prologue introduces parents who embrace late parenthood and face ageist remarks, setting the stage for a father-son dynamic between Abhi and his doting father (V Ravichandran). Their relationship — marked by the father’s overbearing affection and Abhi’s growing claustrophobia — is played out with humour and warmth.

The light-hearted tone continues into Abhi’s courtship of Spoorthi (Sreeleela), which unfolds in formulaic fashion. The comic relief is largely powered by Abhi’s gang of friends, especially Harsha, who steals the show in a moment that even sparks Spoorthi’s envy.

The plot shifts gears with the arrival of Vijaya (Genelia Deshmukh), making a return to Telugu cinema after 13 years. Her character initially teeters on cliché — the stern, unapproachable boss — until her backstory adds emotional depth. These segments echo the tone of a Trivikram Srinivas family drama, and while the writing attempts nuance, the narrative feels too contrived to truly land.

Kireeti’s breezy presence contrasts sharply with the emotional heft Genelia is tasked with. Known for her bubbly roles in films like Bommarillu, she brings maturity and restraint here. It is a pleasure to watch her on screen, once again. Some of her scenes with Kireeti are thoughtfully written, but both actors are constrained by a plot that becomes increasingly predictable.

There are glimmers of smart storytelling, like a moment involving a photograph, but overall, the film misses the opportunity to explore relationships with a fresher lens.

Cinematographer KK Senthil Kumar and Devi Sri Prasad deliver within the constraints of the material. Meanwhile, Sreeleela’s character vanishes after the early portions, only to resurface for the ‘Viral Vayyari’ dance number, featuring a blink-and-miss cameo by Brahmanandam.

In the end, Junior plays out like an extended showreel for Kireeti Reddy, highlighting his screen presence, dancing chops, aptitude for action, and ability to well up on cue. All while that gelled hair never falters.