“Finally, a Kannada movie that made my father cry and laugh together. A must-watch for every IT professional who thinks his dad is ‘too old-fashioned’.” – @CineRashmi (Twitter)
The title Appana Preethiyalli beautifully translates to "In the Love of a Father." The narrative centers around Abhiram (played with intense vulnerability and charm by Jr. NTR), an intelligent, UK-based entrepreneur. 1. The Ultimate Betrayal
The tagline circulating on movie forums reads: "Love isn't just romance. Sometimes, it's a father's silent tears."
The film explores the concept of "Tough Love" vs. "Silent Sacrifice." It is a story about a son who misunderstands his father’s strictness as hatred, only to realize years later that every punishment was a shield protecting him from a dark reality.
The conflict arises when his son, (played by newcomer Dheeren Ram ), lands a high-paying job at a fintech startup. Arjun believes in living for the moment—booking international trips, buying the latest gadgets, and dining at exotic restaurants. The father’s frugality clashes with the son’s modernity.
Following its massive success in Telugu cinema, the movie was dubbed into Kannada to capture the local audience, premiering under the title Appana Preethiyalli (meaning "In the Love of a Father") on major television network satellite slots including . Core Plot and Storyline
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Many recent Kannada films have swung between mass action and experimental art house. Appana Preethiyalli strikes a rare balance. Here’s what makes it feel brand new:
For now, however, the makers urge fans to watch it in cinemas for the "full emotional experience"—especially the climax, which is shot in Dolby Atmos.
At its heart, the movie is a poignant tribute to fatherhood. The tender moments shared between Abhiram and his ailing father form the emotional anchor of the film, ensuring that the high-octane corporate drama never loses its human touch. 3. Stellar Production Value and Music
No, it is an original screenplay written by director Sudha Rathod.
The film’s success led to several remakes, including the Bengali film Baazi (2021). It remains a landmark for showing that high-stakes revenge dramas can be both emotionally resonant and intellectually stimulating. Appana Preethiyalli | Rotten Tomatoes
The movie follows the story of Appana, a young man who is struggling to find his place in the world. With a complicated family history and a uncertain future, Appana is at a crossroads in his life. That is when he meets Preethi, a free-spirited young woman who challenges his perceptions and pushes him to re-examine his priorities. As they navigate their feelings for each other, Appana and Preethi must confront their own demons and learn to let go of the past.