Embark on a nostalgic journey with the web series #90s featuring the dynamic duo Hero Sivaji and Vasuki Anand Sai, renowned for their roles in ‘Tholi Prema.’ Positioned as a middle-class biopic, this series is an exclusive original on the ETV Win app, comprising a captivating narrative across six episodes. Let’s review it here.
Story: Chandrasekhar (Shivaji) is the quintessential middle-class family man, accompanied by his wife Rani (Vasuki Anand Sai) and their three children—Raghu (Mauli Tanuj Prashant), Divya (Vasanthika), and the youngest, Aditya (Rohan Roy). Chandrasekhar, a mathematics teacher at a Government School, endeavors to secure a brighter future for his children through a private education. As the series unfolds, witness the challenges, triumphs, and intricacies of middle-class life, exploring the dreams and aspirations of both parents and children alike.
Performances: Hero Sivaji delivers a natural and convincing portrayal of Chandrasekhar, embodying the essence of a middle-class father. Vasuki Anand Sai, as the queen of the household, effortlessly evokes memories of mothers in the ’90s, leaving an indelible mark on her second innings. Mouli’s natural performance as Raghu is one of the highlights of the show and the young actor proves his with his solid performance. It is complemented by Vasanthi and Snehal Kamath’s beautiful portrayals, adding depth to the series.
Technical Aspects: Naveen Medaram’s presentation, backed by Rajasekhar Medaram’s production values, stands out, and director Aditya Haasan successfully captures the ’90s middle-class ambiance. Suresh Bobbili’s background score seamlessly connects the audience with the scenes, creating a laughter-filled journey that occasionally tugs at heartstrings. The essence of the show is good and there are so many elements that connect to you in a big way. The clean content and the witty dialogue are very good in the show. The camera work is amazing in the series and gives a solid vintage vibe.
Analysis: The ’90s backdrop sheds light on a time when life was simpler, devoid of today’s technological intricacies. The series aptly captures the essence of middle-class existence, highlighting the nuances of family dynamics, aspirations, and the charm of innocent love stories within school premises. This aspect has been showcased in a very interesting manner and credit should go to the director Aditya.
In an era dominated by smartphones and instant communication, “90s” delicately peel back the layers of a bygone time. The creators skillfully unveil the intricacies of middle-class life, relying on personal experiences and memories to weave a compelling, albeit straightforward, narrative. Many scenes are relatable. The way our strict fathers used to treat us is showcased in a fun manner and it resonates with most of us.
The absence of major conflicts is compensated by the series’ ability to beautifully depict the ordinary yet endearing moments that resonate with many middle-class families. But there are so many scenes that are also a bit predictable. You exactly know what is going to happen next as the show has a slow pace in a few episodes as well. But the director Aditya makes sure that is covered through comedy.
Verdict: On the whole, the 90s is more than just a series; it’s a delightful reminiscence of a simpler time. Through the lens of a middle-class family, the series evokes a sense of joy, relatability, and warmth. The series is a treat that can be savored by the entire family, offering a wholesome viewing experience. But be prepared for the predictable nature of the storyline.
Bottom Line – Endearing family drama
Rating: 3/5
