Major review: A heartful tribute to Sandeep Unnikrishnan; Adivi Sesh gets all the credit

Hyderabad: 'Major' has been one of the most-awaited films of the year. Its release was postponed a couple of times but finally, after all the wait, it hit the screens on 3 June and it is worth the wait. Starring Adivi Sesh, Shobitha Dhulipala and Saiee Manjrekar in lead roles, the film is a biopic of late Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan and is directed by Sashi Kiran Tikka.

Sandeep Unnikrishnan (Sesh Adivi) is protective by nature and though he can feel fear, he never has a second thought about stepping in harm's way. Even in school, he is obsessed with the "uniform" and the life of a soldier. But he always asks, "What does being a soldier mean?" Skip a few years and Sandeep is now an NSG Major.

The background of this film needs no introduction. The 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai and how Sandeep ended up a martyr is already well known. So, what do people have to know about Sandeep? Director Sashi Kiran Tikka and actor Adivi Sesh decided to focus on the human being that Sandeep was. Sesh wrote both the story and the screenplay and his only focus was to tell the world to remember Sandeep as more than just a martyr.

Saiee Manjrekar plays Isha, Sandeep's childhood sweetheart, and Shobhitha Dhulipala steps into the role of Pramoda, a businesswoman. These two are assets to the film. Saiee plays a character that has a lot of potential and she takes on the role with ease. Her role is beyond that of just another character. As Isha, she is the heart of the film and has a lot to say about Sandeep. Shobhita is a brave soul who doesn't leave a stone unturned when it comes to saving the people in the hotel.

The best thing about 'Major' is the cinematography besides the terrific performances by the lead actors. Vamsi Patchipulusu's camera work is a visual delight. Sri Charan Pakala's music adds soul to the film and elevates every scene. Abburi Ravi's dialogues make us emotional and they take the movie to another level. Adivi Sesh has given more than his best for this film and it is definitely a role of a lifetime. He will grab your attention and you will not be able to take your eyes off him. The audience will only see Major Sandeep on the screen.