As the title suggests, this is a remake of the Sanjay Dutt starrer "Munnabhai M.B.B.S.", which was a trendsetter in Bollywood. But "Uppi Dada M.B.B.S" doesn't have the impact of the original.

There is no need to outline the story of a remake of a hugely discussed and massively popular film. But still a few sequences merit mention.

The climax sequence where all the hospital staff and the students protest the expulsion of the Dada, the carom board scene and the death of the cancer patient have been executed well with good performances by all the actors involved.

The other sequences, however, are no match for the original, which was a hit with the masses and critics.

Upendra has written the lyrics and also sung one of the songs. Besides getting accolades as a lead actor, he wins in both these departments.

From the beginning he is a scene-stealer - even when he is pitted against a consummate artiste like Anant Nag, who plays the dean's role in this remake. Upendra's brilliant dialogue delivery and perfect body language are the highlights of the film.

Anant has done well, but could have done better because he is capable of giving some new dimension to every role he portrays.

Uma, the actress with the next-door-girl image, who has acted in several Tamil and Telugu films, fits into the role well and proves once again that any actress can shine without trying to be glamorous.

Naveen Mayur comes out with flying colours in his role as a cancer patient. Director D. Rajendra Babu has been successful in taking full support from his technicians and extracting good performance from artistes though Gurudatt falls slightly below the level of Arshad Warsi.

Patnayak's background score is not as good as his music for the songs. "Uppi Dada M.B.B.S." is certainly watchable and well-made. But it may disappoint viewers who have seen the original.