Mithra Mandali review: A funny movie that doesn't quite hit the right notes

Mithra Mandali doesn't do anything new, but it does have some fun parts in both halves.

The low-budget comedy-drama Mithra Mandali, which stars Priyadarshi and digital star Niharika NM, has finally come out in theaters after a lot of advertising. The movie promises a funny ride about friendship, chaos, and romance, but it only makes you laugh a few times.

Story

Chaitanya (Priyadarshi), Satvik (Vishnu Oi), Abhi (Rag Mayur), and Rajeev (Prasad Behra) are four friends who don't do anything and get into trouble all the time. Abhi and Satvik's lives change when they fall in love with Swecha (Niharika NM), the daughter of a politician in the area. Chaitanya steps in to help his friends win her over, not knowing that their silly antics are about to get them into a lot of trouble.

What Works: Fun that is spread out and a scene-stealer

Mithra Mandali doesn't do anything new, but it does have some fun parts in both halves. The four friends' silly innocence and friendship make for lighthearted fun, and the situational humor works sometimes.

The best part of the movie is definitely Satya, who once again shows why people can't wait to see him. Satya plays a quirky character and makes the movie better with his perfect timing and funny expressions.

Priyadarshi gives a heartfelt performance and is great in his funny parts. Vishnu Oi, Rag Mayur, and Prasad Behra also do a good job, even though the writing isn't always good. Niharika NM makes her Telugu debut and does a good job in her role.

What Doesn't Work: Bad writing and slow pacing

Mithra Mandali tries to copy the Jathi Ratnalu formula of over-the-top comedy mixed with self-aware absurdity, but it doesn't work. The filmmakers openly say early on that the movie doesn't have a clear plot, but this self-referential style doesn't work because the humor isn't strong enough to hold it together.

The second half seems to go on for too long, and the story loses its way. The movie quickly becomes boring because the jokes feel forced and the screenplay doesn't connect the funny parts into a whole.

Mithra Mandali feels longer than it is, even though it doesn't last very long. The pacing slows down, and the funny parts that worked at first stop working as the story goes on.

A mix of good and bad technical things

The music and background score by RR Dhruvan are strange and fit the tone of the movie. Siddharth J's cinematography captures the light mood well. The production values are good for a small movie, but the editing could use some work.

Director Vijayender S shows some promise, especially in some well-thought-out comic setups. However, the film doesn't leave a strong impression because it doesn't have a clear focus or narrative control.

Verdict

Some parts are fun, but the whole thing is flat. Mithra Mandali wants to be a funny movie about friendship and confusion, but it doesn't work out that way. Priyadarshi and Satya try their best to keep things interesting, but the writing is bad, the jokes are too similar, and the second half drags on, so it's a hit-or-miss experience.

Also read: Niharika NM makes Tollywood debut with Geetha Arts Production

Final Decision

There are a few funny parts, but not enough to make this comedy stand out. You should only watch it for Satya's jokes and Priyadarshi's easy charm.

Starring : Priyadarshi, Niharika NM, Rag Mayur, Vishnu Oi, Prasad Behara
Director : Vijayendar S
Producers : Kalyan Manthina, Bhanu Pratapa, Dr. Vijender Reddy TeegalaRating: 2/5