Mithra Mandali Review: Mithra Mandali with Priyadarshi and Niharika NM in the lead roles made it to theatres with a strong expectation. Producer Bunny Vas, known for his knack of picking up youth-centric entertainers, backed the film which was marketed as a full-on comedy dealing with friendship and modern-day struggles. Yet, no amount of hype and entertaining promotions could really prepare the audiences for this divided reception Mithra Mandali has its moments of laughter but struggles to create the emotional and narrative balance that can turn a flick into a wholesome entertainer.
The story revolves around a bunch of friends who share an intimate bond while attempting to resolve conflicts concerning love, career, and personal misunderstandings. With Priyadarshi as the main character and responsible for holding this motley crew together, acting from the center in balancing both the comic and emotional sides to build the story. In situational comedy and witty repartee, the first half sets up the universe nicely, which works without a hitch. Yet, as the plot develops, so does its rhythm; the emotional conflicts feel weak, and the latter part feels drenched.
Though the fourth friendship holds relatability, going down the formulaic way sticks out. Instead of an emotional touch to the humor-infested plot, the film relies heavily on the same gags over and over again-so much that it misses creating that magic moment when audiences would really click with them.
Priyadarshi has proved, once again, that he is a natural-born-comedian type of actor, and he delivers good timing and expression in even the weaker scenes. His performance is one of the few saving graces of this film. Niharika NM, into her first Telugu film, projects a fresh and confident view. Though her character might have been written with a bit more depth.
Vennela Kishore, Satya, and Brahmanandam, who added vigour to the proceedings, were not given enough opportunity to shine. Technically, Niketh Bommi’s cinematography and editing by Bharat Vikram have done a decent job although one wished for a smoother run due to more concise cuts.
Director Keertheeswaran obviously wanted to go for the youth entertainer but he had a hard time keeping tonal consistency from beginning to end. When the humour works, it works, but without an emotional core, the film feels empty by the end.
Also Read: Mithra Mandali Budget: How Much Priyadarshi Comedy Drama Needs To Be Hit?
Priyadarshi’s natural comedy and expressions
Engaging first half with witty dialogues
Niharika NM’s confident debut
Weak screenplay and emotional disconnect
Uneven pacing in the second half
Under-utilized supporting cast
While Mithra Mandali has a heart in the right place. It totally lacks the cutting edge of storytelling that a 101 friendship flick needs in order to become somewhat of a memorable trip. Thanks to Priyadarshi’s performance and a few funny bits, it remains watchable. Otherwise It is much more apt for OTT viewing than in theatres.
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