Hey, movie buffs! If you’re anything like me, you’ve been itching for a solid courtroom drama that doesn’t pull punches or drown you in over-the-top theatrics. Well, buckle up, because Court: State vs. A Nobody—released today, March 14, 2025—delivers a raw, heartfelt punch that’s got me buzzing. Directed by debutant Ram Jagadeesh and presented by Telugu star Nani, this film takes a bold swing at the Indian justice system, teenage love, and societal hypocrisy. Does it land the verdict? Let’s break it down.
The Plot: Love, Lies, and Legal Ties
Picture this: Vizag, 2013. Chandu (Harsh Roshan), a 19-year-old hustling with odd jobs, falls head over heels for Jabili (Sridevi), a 17-year-old from a well-off family. It’s all playful banter and stolen glances until Jabili’s uncle, Mangapathi (Sivaji), catches wind of their romance. Cue the drama: Mangapathi, a pride-obsessed bully, slaps a slew of charges on Chandu—including a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case—because Jabili’s underage. Enter Surya Teja (Priyadarshi), a junior lawyer with big dreams and a bigger heart, who steps up to defend Chandu against a rigged system. What unfolds is a tug-of-war between innocence and corruption, with emotions running sky-high.
The Good: Where Court Shines
First off, this movie doesn’t mess around—it dives straight into the messy reality of India’s legal maze. The courtroom scenes? Electric. There’s this one moment in the second half where Teja grills a witness, and the theater I was in erupted in cheers. Priyadarshi owns this role—his quiet intensity and deadpan humor make you root for him hard. Harsh Roshan and Sridevi, as the young lovers, are adorable yet heartbreaking; their chemistry feels so real you almost forget they’re acting.
Sivaji as Mangapathi is the villain you love to hate—ruthless, smug, and dripping with menace. The guy’s a total scene-stealer. And can we talk about the writing? Ram Jagadeesh and his team weave in sharp dialogue—like “A boy’s 14-year future costs just 3 lakhs for some corrupt individuals”—that hits you right in the gut. The film’s take on the POCSO Act is gutsy, asking tough questions about its rigidity without preaching. Plus, the minimalistic vibe—no flashy camera tricks, just raw storytelling—keeps you locked in.
The Not-So-Good: A Few Loose Threads
Okay, it’s not perfect. The first half drags a bit—too much setup, not enough payoff. I found myself checking my watch as they layered in Chandu and Jabili’s backstory. Could’ve been tighter. And while the courtroom stuff is gripping, some legal bits feel off—like allegations flying without medical proof, which doesn’t jive with real procedure. Also, the supporting cast (Rohini, Sai Kumar) is solid but underused; I wanted more from them. Oh, and the 2013 setting? Barely noticeable. A missed chance to lean into the retro vibe.
The Vibe: Feels Like Life, Not a Movie
What I loved most is how Court feels lived-in. The production design—gritty courtrooms, cramped homes—screams authenticity. Vijai Bulganin’s score is subtle but stirring, tugging at your heartstrings without overdoing it. It’s not your typical glossy Tollywood flick; it’s closer to a docu-drama with soul. And that ending? Satisfying as heck without being cheesy. Justice might be blind, but this film sees all the cracks in the system.
Final Verdict: Worth Your Ticket?
Absolutely. Court: State vs. A Nobody isn’t a game-changer, but it’s a damn good watch—especially if you’re into stories that mix emotion with a social kick. It’s got flaws, sure, but the highs (those courtroom wins!) outweigh the lows. I’d give it a solid 3.5/5 stars—maybe even 4 if I’m feeling generous after that killer climax. Nani’s bet on this one pays off, and Ram Jagadeesh is a name to watch.