Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota Review: Solid writing coupled with impeccable performances

Director: Vasan Bala
Producer: Ronnie Screwvala
Cast: Abhimanyu Dassani, Radhika Madan
Rating: 4/5

What if I told you a film can make you laugh, think and learn, all at the same time? You would brush me off calling my proposal ridiculously unreal. But here's a film that breaks barriers and stipulations of genres to deliver a 2 hour 14-minute wholesome experience. There's drama, there's action and a generous amount of humor. Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota encompasses the story of Surya, a man who cannot feel any pain and Supri, his childhood companion.

As unbelievable and unreal it may seem now, once you watch this film, these doubts will fade out. Written masterfully and executed skillfully by Vasan Bala, the film is set in Matunga, a locality in Mumbai. Surya wants to learn Martial arts but his aspirations are opposed by an overprotective father. Fighting all the odds, in the darkness of the night, he learns martial arts. As destiny has it, Surya and Supri meet again.

The film is driven by a mature and solid storyline. The screenplay is intriguing and interesting. The film comfortably spans over the runtime. At no point of time will you feel that the story is being overstretched. A dense and nuanced plot complements a rich storyline. The film mocks every cliché scene in a Bollywood film by incorporating it in the film sarcastically.

This film wouldn't be half as good if it didn't have this dedicated and determined cast. Abhimanyu Dassani takes up a character who comes from a completely new world. His experiences and day-to-day choices are uncommon. But he doesn't shy away from this challenge and convincingly pulls off the character. He, who is also the principal narrator, does a commendable job in the expressions and dialogue delivery zone.

Radhika Madan is a powerhouse of energy, emotions, and action. She does every scene with such ease and comfort. Her emotional sensibility rules her portrayal of Supri. Gulshan Devaiya stands out among the lot. My favourite character in the entire film was Jimmy played by him. He does a double role as Jimmy and Karate Man but pulls both off with equal grit and determination. His comic timing as Jimmy is extraordinary and mature. It wouldn't be an overstatement that Gulshan is the next Jim Sarbh of the industry.

Mahesh Manjrekar, who plays the grandfather, is a heartwarming and convincing character. His effortlessness is a testimony of his craft. Jimit Trivedi will sure crack you up. It is imperative to mention two ladies who shape this story. Shweta Basu Prasad as the mother has very little to do but does it with conviction. Loveleen Misra as Supri's mother is a character my heart goes out to. She has undergone a lot in her life and makes sure it doesn't happen to her daughter.

The cinematography is fine and detailed. It explores the streets of Matunga and doesn't make the overambitious jump to the seaside. Music is well done and the songs appear only when needed.

Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota is a game-changing film in the conventional entertaining films arena. It is fun to watch and presents humour that is sensible.