Total Dhamaal – Just Sit Back And Be Entertained

Some films are just meant to enjoy. You aren’t meant to think much. Whether or not you actually enjoy is one thing, but the intention of “Total Dhamaal” is clear. It’s all about providing an over the top, laugh riot, filled with masala and as the name suggests, ‘Dhamaal!”. In this film we have a stellar cast of Anil Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit, Ajay Devgn, Arshad Warsi, Riteish Deshmukh, Javed Jaffrey, Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Sanjay Mishra, Ashish Chaudary and Johnny Lever, amongst others. We have Esha Gupta and Niharica Raizada for the glamour quotient. Overall, a huge cast. Ofcourse, this film is much bigger than the original.

Many times when we watch a film, we expect a story. If we look at a film from a cinematic sense, we expect a strong screenplay. But perhaps some films fall into a completely different genre, where we should look at it differently. Like I said, this film is meant to be an over the top laugh riot. It’s the type of film where you are meant to leave your brains at home, and simply watch with a tub of popcorn and some soda. Like we say in Hindi, “Zyaada sochne ka nahin!”. If you are mentally prepared to experience something that is only meant to entertain, chances are you will enjoy this film. Perhaps it’s not a “laugh riot” completely, but there are moments that bring a smile on your face. At least you will forget your day to day worries at home or in the office space.

As far as screenplay and story goes, this film is just a series of gags. Thankfully however, the gags are continuous and don’t let you question or pause for a moment to think about what’s being said in the scene.So the lack of logic is smartly dealt with. The film is about a bunch of strangers and their madcap pursuit of stolen wealth hidden in a far-flung spot. Similar to the first “Dhamaal”, “Total Dhamaal” is a comedy of errors. There is another strength to “Total Dhamaal” as well. The easiest route for comedy in recent years has been to follow the route of sex. What works for Total Dhamaal, just like the original, is it does not fall into this trap and refrains from sexual innuendos. It doesn’t rely on vulgar one-liners or skin show, yet is packed with some funny moments, and entertaining situations.

Technically, the CGI is very weak.  Cinematography is simply ok. The music is average. Now to the performances. It feels great to see everyone together! The chemistry between Anil Kapoor and Madhuri is perfect! It’s wonderful to see Johnny Lever once again, doing what he does best.  Javed Jaffrey will make you laugh with his child-like honesty and Sanjay Mishra with his English, although we couldn’t handle him use ‘bro’ beyond a point. Ajay Devgn is simply ok. Comedy isn’t really his forte. Arshad Warsi is a treat to watch! The rest are competent.

Overall, if you want clean entertainment, then “Total Dhamaal” is worth a watch! Just sit back, be entertained, and remember, “Zyaada Sochne Ka Nahi!”

Rating: 4 stars.