MAD, directed by debutant Kalyan Shankar, is a refreshing and entertaining Telugu-language film that captures the spirit of youth, friendship, and the chaos of college life in a hilariously relatable way. Set in an engineering college, the film follows the lives of a group of students as they navigate the ups and downs of hostel life, friendships, love, and identity — all wrapped in non-stop humor.
Join WhatsApp GroupOne of the film’s biggest strengths lies in its natural storytelling. The dialogues are witty, contemporary, and resonate deeply with today’s youth. They don’t feel scripted but rather like real conversations you might overhear in a hostel corridor or classroom. This authenticity gives MAD its charm.
The performances by the ensemble cast — Narne Nithin, Ram Nithin, Sangeeth Shobhan, and others — are spontaneous and effortless. Each actor brings a unique flavor to their role, contributing to the strong chemistry and camaraderie that the film thrives on. The characters are well-written and easy to relate to — you’ll likely see your own college friends in them.
Technically, the film also shines. The cinematography is vibrant and captures the chaos and color of campus life beautifully. The background score and songs, composed with youthful energy, perfectly complement the mood and enhance the comedic beats as well as the emotional ones.
What makes MAD stand out is its ability to deliver fun without forcing drama or over-the-top moments. It doesn’t rely on clichés or preachy dialogues. Instead, it just wants you to sit back, laugh, and relive your college days — and in that, it succeeds wholeheartedly.
Director Kalyan Shankar deserves special mention for presenting a light-hearted, slice-of-life narrative that feels fresh yet familiar. His direction keeps the pace lively and engaging throughout, never allowing the film to lag.
Overall Verdict:
MAD is a delightful youthful entertainer packed with humor, heart, and nostalgia. It’s the perfect watch with friends — whether you’re still in college or reminiscing about the golden days gone by. If you’re looking for a fun, feel-good film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, MAD is a solid pick.
