Title: Hulibeera, Producers: Sai Star Cinemas, Daval Saheb Hunashimarada, Ashok N. Turuvekere and Sujatha Girish, Director: Madarangi Mallikarjuna, Music: Veer Samarth, Cinematography: Sanathana, Cast: Anjan, Chytra Thotad, Vanu Patil, Rangayana Raghu, Mallu Bagalkot, Rajendra Karanth, Santosh Keri, Revanna and others
Hulibeera is a true rural film that brings all the flavours of village life to the screen at regular intervals. More importantly, its portrayal of rural innocence, along with the moral and traditional values of village life, gives the film a strong emotional foundation and makes it an engaging family entertainer.
Director Madarangi Mallikarjuna packs several relevant issues into the film’s 141-minute narrative. The villagers’ belief that having a boy in the family is essential, the journey of Beera—a 10th-standard failure who never compromises on his morals—the way he supports his innocent family, and how he serves and protects them better than many educated youngsters who have moved to cities are all woven naturally into the story.
There are several other interesting layers. The boy next door remains unfazed when the girl he loves shifts her loyalty. The film highlights the problems faced by villagers when politicians cast a wrong shadow over them. It also touches upon internal village politics, the denial of the villagers’ rightful share of government benefits, and the unquestioned authority of the village chairman, which is eventually challenged.
The story also explores how ancestral property can fall into the wrong hands because of the disobedience of one family member. The influence of Yellamma tradition on the mother, the son’s respect for his mother, and his decision to move forward with a sheep business all add further depth to the rural setting. The final twist delivers a thunderous impact and makes the climax a satisfying treat.
Adding further value to the narrative is popular humourist Gangavathi Pranesh, whose appealing style of narration gives Hulibeera an additional flavour. Overall, Hulibeera is a sincere effort from the entire team, with the second half coming as a pleasant surprise with its suspense and thrills.
The film primarily revolves around Hulibeera, played by Rural Star Anjan. He has understood the character well and carries the role with confidence. His performance in the climax, in particular, is reminiscent of the intensity seen in the climax of the blockbuster Kantara. The background score further elevates the sequence and takes it to another level.
Anjan clearly has tremendous potential to explore in his acting career. His North Karnataka-style dialogue delivery, however, does not always reach the ears clearly. But his dancing, action, screen presence and looks are outstanding.
Rangayana Raghu, as Ajja, is cool and composed. The character of Beera’s mother is particularly impressive. The scene in which she protects her son after making him take a promise is beautifully handled, with the emotions and dialogue between mother and son standing out.
Three girls in the village fall for Beera. Beera misses out on two of them but eventually settles with one. Chytra Thotad looks lovely and performs well, while Vanu Patil delivers a good performance. Anjan’s mother, too, gives a solid performance in her role. Despite featuring several relatively unfamiliar faces, the film does not compromise on performances. The newcomers fit naturally into the rural world, and the Jidda Jiddi portions have been effectively captured.
Music is one of the major strengths of Hulibeera. Veer Samarth has composed a set of appealing tunes that connect well with the audience. The title song “Huttibanda,” sung by veteran singer Sangeetha Katti, stands out as the pick of the album. The marriage-party song “Jigri Dost Haa…”, along with “Kottana Seere” and “Parapanch Dundu,” sung by Vijay Prakash, also leave a lasting impression. The background score by Dharma Vish effectively lifts the mood and enhances several important sequences.
The cinematography by Sanathana is candid and clear, capturing the rural landscape and atmosphere effectively. The dialogues are apt and suit the characters and setting. The costumes deserve special mention, particularly those designed for the Yellamma devotees. The attention to detail gives the film an authentic and sincere rural feel.
Hulibeera is a wholesome family entertainer that combines rural innocence, humour, emotions, tradition, suspense and thrills. It is an earnest attempt with plenty of variety and several moments that connect with the audience.
A strong and sensible rural entertainer that is worth watching.
