As laughter cascades from the cinema halls showcasing “Madgaon Express,” one thing is evident — the comedy genre has received a much-needed jolt of life. Kunal Kemmu, making his directorial debut, presents a film that rekindles the essence of a genuine comedy, one that engages the audience’s sense of humor without prompting them to disconnect from reality. Kemmu, with a rating of 4 out of 5, defies the trend of over-the-top farces, instead choosing to celebrate wit and situational comedy.
The story centers around three inseparable childhood comrades: Divyenndu, Pratik Gandhi, and Avinash Tiwary. Emerging from their academic years, with dreams of an idyllic vacation in Goa, they never managed to actualize this youthful fantasy due to the unpredictable twists of fate. Pinku (portrayed by Gandhi) and Ayush (Tiwary) find themselves pulled away from their homeland, lured by the prospects of a prosperous future overseas. Meanwhile, Dodo (played by Divyenndu) remains, a sentinel of their collective aspiration.
As the narrative unfolds, the halted Goa trip is invigorated when the three friends, now seasoned by life’s lessons, aim to fulfill their long-pending journey. This time, the constraints of a middle-class budget shape their experience. The ensuing escapade unravels into a cavalcade of calamitous and regrettable events, serving as a cautionary tale against the seemingly benign wish for a vacation.
Kunal Kemmu, steering not only the direction but also the writing of the story, screenplay, and dialogues, has successfully strung together a narrative where humor breathes through the vivid personalities of its protagonists rather than relying on contrived punchlines. There’s Pinku, the timid boy next door plagued by allergies, Ayush, who is stoically dedicated to a romance with an unseen partner, and Dodo, the gutsy smooth-talker who feigns affluence to maintain the esteem of his companions. It’s within these imperfections that the film finds its comedic rhythm — the elegance of Kemmu’s approach.
It appears that Kemmu owes a degree of his inspiration to his prior alliances with filmmakers Raj-DK, as evidenced in the clever, sharply witty, and relatable dialogue reminiscent of their joint past projects. Nevertheless, Kemmu distinguishes his own style by embedding the characters in a relatable reality. The viewers watch three atypical men navigate the intricacies of their bond, portrayed with such authenticity that one might surmise the director has either lived out these characters’ lives or been intimately acquainted with them — a testament to the film’s observational humor.
One of the standout triumphs of “Madgaon Express” lies in its casting choices. Divyenndu steals the spotlight, creating a vortex of comedic turmoil with his outstanding timing and delivery — heralding a triumphant return to comedy that rivals his earlier notable performances. Pratik Gandhi, still revered for his role in “Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story,” astounds the audience with his dexterity in physical comedy. Avinash Tiwary, often seen in dramatic roles, captures hearts with his endearing portrayal, adding yet another facet to the film’s charm.
As the credits roll, the allure of a potential sequel is dangled before the audience. “Madgaon Express” is an open invitation — a call to adventure on this uproarious rail — urging viewers to come aboard the riotous journey of morbid undertakings and the ultimate testament to camaraderie. With its precise comedic timing, distinctive character development, and evocative narrative, the film stands as an exemplar of comedic cinema, proving that joy can indeed be found in the shared calamities of life.
