Mad Square Review: A Spirited Yet Slightly Inferior Sequel!

Kalyan Shankar’s Mad Square, the sequel to the 2023 hit Mad, carries forward the same brand of over-the-top humor and chaotic storytelling that made its predecessor a crowd-pleaser. This time around, the film follows Laddu, who finds himself in jail, recounting the series of events that led to his predicament. With returning characters like DD, Ashok, and Manoj, the film maintains its focus on friendship, absurdity, and nonstop comedy.

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The humor in Mad Square remains its biggest strength. The film thrives on its madcap energy, delivering a barrage of jokes that will have audiences laughing in the moment, even if they don’t leave a lasting impression. It leans into silliness unapologetically, never taking itself too seriously, and the lead characters’ camaraderie adds to the charm. Their chemistry feels natural, making the interactions enjoyable and relatable, which is a major reason why the film works despite its flaws and drawbacks.

However, when compared to the first film, Mad Square does feel like a step down across the board. The comedy, while entertaining, lacks the same freshness. The songs don’t stand out as much, and the story—while more structured than its predecessor—never attempts to be anything more than a loose framework for the humor. This isn’t necessarily a drawback if you go in with the right expectations, but for those hoping for an engaging narrative, the film might feel underwhelming.

Despite its narrative shortcomings, this film is elevated by its performances. The three main leads—Narne Nithiin, Sangeeth Sobhan, and Ram Nitin—bring plenty of energy and comic timing, ensuring that their antics remain engaging throughout. Vishnu Oi, as Laddu, is a scene-stealer, effortlessly blending humor with an endearing presence. Their performances anchor the film, making it an entertaining ride even when the script falters.

The supporting cast does a decent job, with actors like Muralidhar Goud, Sunil, “Satyam” Rajesh, and “Subhalekha” Sudhakar providing solid comedic support. Their presence adds to the overall humor, even if their roles don’t leave a significant impact. Meanwhile, the cameos by Priyanka Jawalkar, Anudeep KV, and Ravi Anthony Pudota are fun additions but ultimately feel inconsequential in the grand scheme of the film.

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Overall, Mad Square is a serviceable sequel that delivers just enough laughs to justify its runtime. It may not reach the heights of the first film, but for those looking for a lighthearted, carefree comedy, it still provides an enjoyable two-hour theatrical experience. While the humor doesn’t always stick beyond the moment, and the film lacks a strong narrative drive, its likable characters and relentless energy make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. If you’re in the mood for a fun, goofy ride without overanalyzing the details, this sequel gets the job done.

‘Mad Square’ Rating – 3/5