Film:
Madgaon Express
Director: Kunal Kemmu
Cast: Divyenndu, Pratik Gandhi, Avinash Tiwary, Nora Fatehi, Upendra Limaye, Chhaya Kadam, Remo D’Souza
Platform: In theatres
Duration: 2h 23min
Madgaon Express Movie Review
Madgaon Express is about three childhood friends – Dodo (Divyenndu), Aayush (Avinash Tiwary) and Pinku (Pratik Gandhi), and their teenage dream to go to Goa for a holiday. After years of being unsuccessful, the trio embark on an unforgettable trip that goes from being the vacation of their dreams to a nightmare from the get-go. Directed by Kunal Khemu the film is a slapstick comedy that hits the bullseye. Is it worth a theatrical watch? 100% yes and below we tell you why.
What Works
The main reason the film works is because it can make one laugh their hearts out irrespective of who is sitting beside you. With witty dialogues, catchy songs, references to old movies and impressive performances, the Kunal Khemu directorial is a must-watch.
What Doesn’t Work
Besides some overperformance – something that is expected from such type of comedy films, Madgaon Express ticks all the right boxes to make it work.
Technical Analysis
Script & Dialogues
Written by Kunal Kemmu, the film starring Divyenndu, Pratik Gandhi and Avinash Tiwary is a hilarious comedy that is filled with scenes that will either have you laughing with and at the characters or gasping seeing their plight. It won’t bore you and is the perfect stress reliever one can wish for. Kunal deserves applause for writing a brisk-paced story that is crisp and has all its ends tied up beautifully. The dialogues are casual but catchy and help in making the storyline even more rib-tickling.
Direction & Editing
Kunal Kemmu has done a brilliant job as a first-time director and fans are sure to have high expectations from him in the future. He has managed to capture the not-so-fun side of a trip gone bad while also showing us the raw emotions people try to hide while showing the world their perfect lives. Anand Subaya and Sanjay Ingle have done a commendable job at the editor’s table and the proof is that the 2-hour 23-minute film does not seem too lengthy or blotchy.
Cinematography
Cinematographer Adil Afsar has done well in selecting eye-catching locations across Goa. The scenes captured in Madgaon Express will make you want to head to the beach state immediately.
Music
Composed by Sharib-Toshi Ankur Tewari, Kunal Khemu, Sagar Desai, Sameer Uddin and Ajay-Atul, the songs in this film are loud but in sync with the story. The songs – penned by Kumaar, Ajay-Atul, Kalim Sheikh and Kunal Khemu, are aptly placed in the film and help in enhancing the situation the characters are in. The tracks – especially Baby Bring It On, are sure to stick with you even after the end credits roll.
Star Performances
Divyenndu as Dodo – the up-to-no-good friend, Avinash Tiwary as Aayush – the handsome hunk who is staying faithful to his ‘girlfriend’ and Pratik Gandhi as Pinku – the accident and illness magnet, do commendable jobs. They beautifully showcase the bond between friends who grew up together but grew apart as they followed their careers only to reunite for their dream vacation to Goa. Their expressions and body language will make you remember all your ‘kamina’ friends.
Nora Fatehi as Tasha is nothing more than just the arm candy. However, she does justice to her character playing the damsel in distress who initially helps the guys. Upendra Limaye as Mendoza Bhai and Chhaya Kadam as Kanchan Kombdi are a delight to watch. Their comic timing is impeccable.
Remo D’souza’s extended cameo is a surprise and Kunal Khemu a high-as-a-kite hippy, will have you laughing.
Conclusion
Madgaon Express is a light-hearted comedy that can be watched with friends and family. The film has the ability to de-stress an individual with its dialogues, expressive performances and crisp story. Kunal Khemu’s directorial debut is a hilarious film that is sure to make you go ROFL. A 100% watch in theatres.