Review of Mad Square: An absurdly entertaining follow-up that misses Mad's magic


The final verdict on Mad Square is that while it delivers on its promise of lighthearted entertainment, it doesn’t quite match the spontaneity and freshness of its predecessor. The film has its moments, particularly in the first half, with some genuinely funny sequences and nostalgic callbacks. However, the inconsistency in humour and a weaker narrative structure prevent it from being as engaging as Mad.

The performances, particularly from Vishnu Oi and Santosh Shoban, keep the film afloat, but the supporting cast isn’t given enough material to leave a lasting impact. Sunil and Satyam Rajesh, despite their comedic potential, feel underutilized. The shift in setting to Goa introduces a robbery subplot that, while intended to add an extra layer of madness, doesn’t always hit the mark. Some of the jokes land well, especially those rooted in situational comedy, but others feel repetitive or overly stretched, making certain portions drag.

Despite these shortcomings, the film finds its footing towards the climax, reinforcing themes of friendship and camaraderie that worked well in the original. The heartwarming bond between the lead characters shines through in the latter half, making up for some of the film’s flaws. The emotional beats, though not as strong as in Mad, are still effective in reminding the audience why they connected with these characters in the first place. The announcement of Mad 3 hints at another round of chaos, leaving hope for a stronger continuation of the franchise.

On the technical front, the film does a decent job, but nothing particularly stands out. Bheema Ceciroleo’s music is catchy in parts, with a couple of energetic numbers that add to the fun vibe, while Thaman’s background score helps maintain the film’s pace. The cinematography is functional, capturing the vibrant locations of Goa well but not adding any significant visual flair. Editing is sharp in places but could have been tighter in the second half, where some sequences feel overstretched.

Overall, Mad Square is a film that works in parts, offering a few laugh-out-loud moments but struggling to maintain consistency. For fans of over-the-top comedy, it provides a decent watch with its fair share of amusing gags and wild antics. However, for those expecting a sequel that builds upon the charm of Mad with a stronger script and sharper humour, it might feel like a slight letdown.

It’s a film best enjoyed with tempered expectations—if you’re looking for a breezy, no-brainer comedy to pass the time, it works. But if you’re hoping for another Mad-level surprise hit, you might find yourself wanting more.


 

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