A Rollercoaster That Forgot the Thrills

Mazaka, starring Sundeep Kishan and Rao Ramesh, attempts to be a commercial entertainer—keyword: attempts. Directed by Thrinadha Rao Nakkina, the film also features Ritu Varma and Anshu in important roles. Sundeep Kishan, who has been on a relentless quest for a commercial hit since Venkatadri Express, once again rolls the dice with this family-oriented drama. Released on Maha Shivaratri, the film gives Rao Ramesh a near-parallel lead role, which is probably its most interesting choice. Now, let’s see if this Mazaka packs a punch or just leaves us saying, “Mazak hai kya?”

The story revolves around a father and son who dream of building a family. Sounds wholesome, right? Well, the execution is about as smooth as a Wi-Fi connection during a thunderstorm. What could have been an engaging family drama stumbles into a repetitive loop of predictable comedy, overused tropes, and emotions that fail to hit the mark.

A somewhat creative idea of both father and son narrating their flashbacks to a police officer (Ajay) had potential, but unfortunately, it’s handled with the finesse of a WhatsApp forwarded joke. The dialogues, meant to bring humor, barely tickle the funny bone, and emotional scenes feel as artificial as a store-bought birthday cake.

The first half is packed with routine comedy—some of which might have worked if this were 2010. The second half, however, tests your patience with repetitive sequences that make you question your life choices. The romantic track between Rao Ramesh and Anshu? Well, let’s just say it has about as much spark as a wet matchstick.

The film does try to redeem itself with an interval twist that momentarily piques curiosity, only to fizzle out soon after. While a few emotional moments—like Rao Ramesh’s dialogue about not hearing anklets in the house for 25 years—attempt to tug at heartstrings, the overall emotional impact is as fleeting as a politician’s election promises.

Performances:

• Sundeep Kishan: Struggles with comedy timing and often seems like a guest in his own movie, thanks to Rao Ramesh stealing the spotlight.
• Rao Ramesh: Puts in a solid performance but occasionally cranks up the melodrama dial to eleven.
• Murali Sharma: Delivers a commendable performance as Bhargav Sharma.
• Ritu Varma & Anshu: Do their best with what little they’re given.

Technical Aspects:

• Direction: Thrinadha Rao Nakkina plays it safe with a formulaic approach, making the film feel like a remix of scenes from a dozen other movies.
• Music: Leon James’ soundtrack is as forgettable as last week’s shopping list.
• Screenplay & Dialogues: Prasanna Kumar’s writing follows the tried-and-tested routine without any innovation.
• Production Values: While the film looks decent, thanks to AK Entertainments, Hasya Movies, and Zee Studios, no amount of gloss can fix a weak narrative.

Final Verdict:

Mazaka is like ordering biryani and getting plain rice instead—disappointing and lacking spice. With predictable comedy, uninspired storytelling, and unconvincing emotions, it neither makes you laugh nor cry (unless you count crying over wasted time). Unless you’re a die-hard fan of the cast, this one’s best enjoyed in small YouTube clips—if at all.

Ratings

Acting – 3/5

Direction – 2/5

Cinematography – 2/5

Screenplay – 2/5

Originality – 1/5

OVER ALL – 1.5/5

“PASSABLE”