BOTTOM LINE
A Case Well Made
RATING
3/5
CENSOR
2h 29m – UA13+
What Is the Film About?
Court – State Vs. A Nobody is about a young boy Chandu (Harsh Roshan) who faces legal trouble that could cost him his life. The story explores how cases are framed against him under the POCSO Act, how lawyer Teja (Priyadarshi) comes to his rescue, and how justice is ultimately delivered in the courtroom.
Performances
Harsh Roshan and Sridevi make their big-screen debut at a young age, and both deliver commendable performances. At no point do they seem new to the camera. Regardless of their impact, no one would complain about their debut—they do a pretty good job slipping into their respective roles.
Priyadarshi, who plays lawyer Teja, shoulders the responsibility of making the film visually engaging, especially in the crucial second half, where all the courtroom drama unfolds. Much of the courtroom sequences rely on him. The way he moves, behaves, and speaks—all contribute to his character. While he delivers a decent performance, the impact is lacking. Physically, he fits the role of lawyer Teja perfectly, but in crucial scenes, his performance feels just adequate.
Take, for example, the climax scene in the court, where he needs to deliver a powerful performance about age and the misuse of the POCSO law. His performance is just fine, but this moment could have been his chance to elevate the film and make his role truly memorable. While no one will criticize his performance, it definitely could have been more impactful. He had the chance to make it a memorable role but settled for just a ‘decent’ performance.
Among the supporting cast, Sivaji steals the show and makes the film stand out. His portrayal of the negative character is so convincing that he truly feels like the worst, making the film more engaging. He deserves major credit and is the film’s true show-stealer. Despite playing a negative role, he remains the biggest highlight. From his body language to the small details in his performance and on-screen presence, everything fits perfectly for the role of Mangapathi.
Analysis
Court – State Vs A Nobody is written and directed by debutant Ram Jagadeesh who takes on a courtroom drama woven around a POCSO case involving two young characters. The film’s success heavily depends on the writing—especially in the courtroom, where most of the drama unfolds—and its resolution. If either of these elements fails, the film would not be satisfying. This is where the debutant director largely succeeds.
The film begins with the lawyer and courtroom atmosphere, setting the right vibe for the film. As the story slips into flashback, it follows a routine love track that is neither too boring nor particularly refreshing. Scenes like the Mirchi Prabhas reference give off a templated, routine feel instead of being original. However, the legal hook attached to the case keeps the intrigue alive and sustains engagement. The film picks up toward the interval, though the writing feels overly convenient—especially with the judge character, who comes across as a “Yes Man,” that highlights the convenience of the script. Despite this, the first half remains a decent watch and sets the stage for a well-executed courtroom drama in the second half.
The strength of ‘Court’ lies in its second half, where all the courtroom drama unfolds and strong writing takes center stage. The courtroom conversations are well-written and engaging for the most part. While the exchanges between the lawyers—counterarguments and rebuttals—may not be entirely surprising or shocking, the way the narrative builds keeps the flow smooth, making it consistently engaging.
However, the director falls short in extracting standout performances during crucial scenes in the second half, which is a definite miss. Given the cast, if he had elevated a few key courtroom moments to be truly clap-worthy, the second half could have had an even bigger impact. That said, after an engaging courtroom proceeding, the film’s closure is beautifully executed. The scene where the girl reveals what really happened between her and the boy in the room is presented exceptionally well. The idea behind it is excellent, stealing hearts with its warmth and emotional depth. There’s no doubt about its impact.
However, after the court’s verdict, when the boy runs out, the follow-up scenes, while fine, lack the required emotional punch. Not to be overly critical, but this could be attributed to the debutant director’s need for more experience in extracting performances. That aside, as a first-time filmmaker, he delivers a genuine and commendable attempt, taking a sensitive subject like POCSO and crafting an engaging two-hour feature film.
Overall, Court – State Vs. A Nobody is a small film with a compelling second half, a strong supporting cast, and a well-written courtroom drama that deserves to be watched.
Performances by Others Actors
A movie like Court cannot succeed without the right supporting cast, and that’s where it excels. As a whole, Court boasts a well-acted supporting cast.
Starting with Sai Kumar, who delivers a subtle and commendable performance as a senior lawyer, and including the family roles played by Rohini, Subhalekha Sudhakar, Surabhi Prabhavathi, Rajasekhar Aningi they all bring authenticity to their characters. Their performances add significant value to the film, making the entire experience feel more genuine. Overall, the supporting cast greatly enhances the film.
On the flip side, Harsha Vardhan who plays the negative lawyer, instead of being mean, comes across as overacting a bit. This could be a misjudgment from the director’s side. Rather than portraying a mean lawyer, he seems to overact in court, and this is consistently noticeable. However, luckily, the engaging court proceedings prevent this from overshadowing or spoiling the overall experience.
Music and Other Departments?
When it comes to music, Vijai Bulganin has already delivered one hit song, and his background score is decent. While there are moments where it could have been more impactful, overall, he does a decent job. The background score may not stand out much, but it serves the film adequately. However, in some places, he missed an opportunity. For example, in the scene where Sivaji takes the police to arrest the boy while the girl is in the house, the background score feels lackluster. The BGM is louder than the dialogues, making them hard to hear and creating an awkward effect. Despite such issues, his overall work is adequate.
Editing by Karthika Srinivas is crisp, and the artwork by Vithal feels authentic.
Cinematography by Dinesh Purushothaman enhances the film’s visual authenticity, providing a solid foundation. The visuals remain consistently engaging, maintaining the tone needed for a film like Court. His work truly serves as the backbone of the film.
Production values by Wall Poster Cinema are impressive. At no point does the film feel low-budget—it has everything required for a film like Court.
Highlights?
Engaging courtroom proceedings
Sivaji’s performance
Strong overall casting
The vulnerability of the case is well connected
Drawbacks?
Unoriginal love track
Convenient writing in several places
Not so strong lawyer character (played by Harsha Vardhan)
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, despite a few issues.
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, this small film has heart—give it a try.
Court: State vs A Nobody Movie Review by M9
Final Report:
After a decent first half, Court delivers an engaging second half with a satisfying closure. A small but genuine attempt, with strong casting and a fresh premise. Watch it.
First Half Report:
First half of Court has a moderately engaging love track, but the legal hook that follows keeps it engaging and builds momentum towards the interval. The film looks visually authentic, with the first half setting the stage for the courtroom drama in the second.
— Court – State Vs. A Nobody opens with a legal, courtroom atmosphere. Stay tuned for the U.S. premiere report.
Stay tuned for Court – State Vs. A Nobody Review, USA premiere report.
Court – State Vs. A Nobody is directed by debutant Ram Jagadeesh, who also serves as the writer. The film is presented by Nani, with music composed by Vijai Bulganin. Court features a notable cast like Priyadarshi, Sivaji etc, along with newcomers Harsh Roshan and Sridevi in key roles.
Cast: Priyadarshi, Harsh Roshan, Sridevi, Sivaji, Sai Kumar, Harsha Vardhan, Rohini, Subhalekha Sudhakar, Surabhi Prabhavathi, Rajasekhar Aningi
Written & Directed by: Ram Jagadeesh
DOP: Dinesh Purushothaman
Music: Vijai Bulganin
Editor: Karthika Srinivas R
Screenplay: Ram Jagadeesh, Karthikeya Sreenivass, Vamsidhar Sirigiri
Art: Vithal Kosanam
Wall Poster Cinema, Nani presents
Produced by: Prashanti Tipirneni
Co-Producer: Deepthi Ganta
U.S. Distributor: Prathyangira Cinemas
