Naani (2004) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo
Last updated: 24 Mar 2026
Naani (2004) Review
A review of Naani (2004) (Telugu comedy, drama, fantasy), directed by S. J. Suryah. Starring Mahesh Babu, Ameesha Patel, Devayani. An impulsive youngster, who is furious with his mother, seeks assistance from a scientist for a way to become an adult overnight. His wish is granted and he begins look like a 28-year-old man. How will he deal with the complexities of adulthood? How will his relationship with his mother evolve? Our Rating: 2.25/5. Verdict: FLOP. Released: 14 May 2004. Runtime: 2h 40m.
Naani(2004)
Telugu · Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
2h 40m · 14 May 2004
Music: A.R. Rahman | DOP: K. V. Guhan | Writer: Ganapathi Rao Kommanapalli, S.J. Suryah
Ratings
Our Rating
2.25
📖 Story
Naani is a fantasy drama revolving around a young boy who magically transforms into an adult overnight. The film explores his adventures and challenges as he navigates adult life with a child's innocence, while also dealing with family and romantic relationships.
Mahesh Babu: Convincing portrayal of a child trapped in an adult's body, balancing innocence and maturity.
Ameesha Patel: Supportive and charming, providing a romantic interest with grace.
Devayani: Strong emotional presence as a maternal figure.
S. J. Suryah: Effective as the antagonist, adding tension to the narrative.
💪 Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ✓Unique fantasy storyline
- ✓Mahesh Babu's performance
- ✓A.R. Rahman's musical score
- ✓Visual effects and cinematography
Weaknesses
- ✕Pacing issues in the second half
- ✕Some predictable plot elements
- ✕Supporting characters underdeveloped
🎬 Direction & Writing
S. J. Suryah delivers an ambitious fantasy drama with a blend of emotion and entertainment, though the screenplay occasionally falters in maintaining narrative momentum.
- - Music by A.R. Rahman
- - Cinematography by K. V. Guhan
- - Visual effects
- - Editing and sound design
📰 Ratings Sources
No rating sources available.
Our Rating
💰 Box Office Collection
No collection data available yet.
🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 40% |
| Neutral | 35% |
| Negative | 25% |
Critics
Critics appreciated the innovative concept and Mahesh Babu's performance, while some pointed out flaws in pacing and screenplay. The music by A.R. Rahman was widely praised. Overall, the film received mixed to positive reviews.
Final Box-Office Result
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Naani release in theatres?▾
Naani released on 14 May 2004 (2004).
Is Naani a hit or flop?▾
Naani is declared a FLOP at the box office.
Where to watch Naani online? OTT release date?▾
Naani OTT release date not announced yet.
Who directed Naani?▾
Naani directed by S. J. Suryah. Produced by Manjula Ghattamaneni, Sanjay Swaroop.
Who are the main cast members of Naani?▾
Naani stars Mahesh Babu, Ameesha Patel, Devayani.
What is the Tollybo rating for Naani?▾
Tollybo rates Naani 2.25/5. Verdict: FLOP.
Who composed the music for Naani?▾
Music for Naani composed by A.R. Rahman.
What is the genre and runtime of Naani?▾
Naani — Genre: Comedy, Drama, Fantasy, Runtime: 160 minutes, Language: Telugu.