Incomplete love stories have always been a beloved genre among Kannada cinema lovers, and Vishnu Priya is the latest addition to that list—a film that has the potential to make you fall in love and break your heart all at once. Set in the 1990s, this romantic drama stars Shreyas Manju and Priya Varrier, directed by VK Prakash and produced by K Manju.
The film opens with a heartfelt narration by Kannada’s favorite director of love stories, Yogaraj Bhat, who describes Vishnu Priya as a “Pramanika Preethiya Hucchu Prema Kathe”—a tale of pure, passionate, and almost reckless love. As the story unfolds, it stays true to that sentiment.
Vishnu (Shreyas Manju) is a young man emotionally distant from the idea of love, shaped by the loss of his father at a young age and his mother’s remarriage. To him, relationships and commitment mean little—until Priya (Priya Varrier) confesses her love for him. Vishnu, burdened by his past, believes that love is built solely on trust (Nambike), while Priya, with unwavering devotion, promises to love him till her last breath.
Thus begins the journey of Vishnu Priya—a college romance tested by time, parental expectations, and societal pressures. Will their love endure, or will fate have other plans?
After a string of action films, Shreyas Manju steps into the role of an intense lover boy in Vishnu Priya, set in the nostalgic 1990s—a simpler era untouched by social media, GPS, or mobile phones. This period setting adds undeniable charm, allowing audiences to experience a love story woven through handwritten letters, landline conversations, phone booths, and humble tea stalls, rather than the modern café culture.
One of the film’s biggest strengths lies in its breathtaking visuals. Every frame is romanticized—whether it’s the sweeping landscapes that evoke a sense of timeless love or the tight close-ups that capture the raw emotions of the protagonists. The cinematography not only enhances the storytelling but also immerses the audience in the depth of their emotions, making Vishnu Priya a visually rich and emotionally resonant experience.
The film also boasts strong performances that hold the story together. Shreyas Manju displays multiple shades in his portrayal of Vishnu—from the simplicity of a pleasant love story to the intense, obsessive side of love—pushing his limits as an actor. Priya Varrier delivers a fabulous performance, with her expressive eyes and emotions adding immense depth to her character. The supporting cast, including seasoned actors like Achyuth Kumar, Suchendra Prasad, and Sundar Raj, further strengthens the film.
The story of Vishnu Priya is based on a real-life incident, written by Sindhushree, starts on a strong note with an engaging narrative and well-placed twists that hold the audience’s attention. However, as the second half intensifies, the screenplay becomes somewhat scattered, leading to a few moments of sluggish pacing. Despite this, the film remains engaging, thanks to its strong technical aspects. The stunning visuals and soulful music ensure that Vishnu Priya keeps viewers invested till the very end.
With its evocative narrative, Vishnu Priya blends nostalgia, emotions, and the raw intensity of young love, making it a must-watch for romance enthusiasts.
