So guys, what Bollywood has done this time is really worth recording in history. Because for the first time two versions of a film – Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B – have been released simultaneously in theatres. Meaning one film, but two stories. And yes, I have seen both. So let’s talk now about which one should be watched, can you go with the family and most importantly – will it really make you laugh?
Story of the film – A twist of murder mystery wrapped in comedy
The film begins on a cruise ship where a 100-year-old man’s birthday party has been arranged. His two sons are going to meet him there – one real, one secret – but three jolly ones arrive. Now who is real and who is fake? And during this a murder takes place.
Now the film takes a turn from comedy to thriller. There is a killer who is killing everyone wearing a mask. And the thrill is that the killer himself is present among the people in the party. Both versions have different killers, which gives you two perspectives – the same story, two endings.
What’s new in the story?
The film begins on a cruise ship – where the world’s richest man’s 100th birthday party is being held. But this party is not just about music and fun, but also murder. And then enter three Jollys – Jolly 1, Jolly 2 and Jolly 3 – who all claim to be the rich man’s sons.
Now the question is who is the real son and who is the murderer?
A completely Agatha Christie style murder mystery – but with Housefull type comedy!
What is the difference between Housefull 5A and 5B?
Both the films have the same content for around 2 hours 35 minutes. But the last 10-15 minutes change completely. Meaning:
- The killer in Housefull 5A is someone else
- The killer in Housefull 5B is someone else
And this twist makes this franchise different this time.
Is it actually fun?
See, the Housefull franchise has always been about the “dimag ghar chhodo aur haste jaaye” type. It is the same this time too, but this time there is a murder mystery as well. Akshay Kumar’s quirky comic timing, old nostalgic characters like the parrot and the monkey, and a plethora of almost 20 actors – it is truly House-FULL.
But…
What is the problem?
- Over the top adult comedy: At many places double meaning dialogues, foreigner angles and scenes with short clothes do not allow the film to remain family friendly.
- Some actors have been made showpieces: less acting, more expressions.
- Dialogues are repeated: some actors have to say the same lines again and again.
- Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff have been made a joke: the trailer was powerful, but not in the film.
- Songs have been forcibly added: they break the flow of the story.
What is USP?
- Double ending: Two versions of one film, two killers, two perspectives.
- Strong suspense: The suspense of the masked killer is paced very well.
- Last-minute cameo: A strong surprise cameo which is in both versions.
Acting Performance
- Akshay Kumar – Bhai has won our hearts. Old-school Housefull Akshay is back!
- Nana Patekar – Less role, but the whole mystery is revealed by him.
- Pooja Hegde, Kriti Sanon & other actresses – Just to add glamour.
- Sanjay Dutt – Jackie Shroff – Felt a bit forced comedy.
Final Verdict – Which version to watch?
- If you are a fan of suspense – watch both versions, you will enjoy them from two different perspectives.
- If you have less time – you can watch any one, but version A seems a little more engaging.
- With family? – It is a little risky due to adult comedy and some risqué scenes. Going with friends would be a better option.
My Rating:
3.5/5 Stars – For the unique concept, Akshay’s comic comeback & unpredictable climax।