Mad is a fresh take on campus comedies in Telugu cinema. Directed by debutant Kalyan Shankar, the film throws you into the madcap world of three engineering students and their unforgettable journey through college life. With its fast-paced storytelling, clever humor, and vibrant performances, Mad has become a sleeper hit among the youth.

Story Summary

The plot revolves around DD, Ashok, and Manoj, three freshers who enter an engineering college full of ragging, rules, and chaos. Narrated by their quirky senior Laddu, the movie explores their transformation from confused newcomers to confident final-year students. It’s a nostalgic rollercoaster packed with mischief, crushes, friendships, and unexpected life lessons.

What sets Mad apart is its ability to deliver entertainment without getting overly dramatic. The story isn’t driven by one big conflict but by a series of hilarious and emotional moments that reflect real student life.

Performances

Sangeeth Shobhan as DD shines with effortless comic timing. His performance is energetic and relatable, earning him Filmfare and SIIMA awards for Best Debut. Vishnu Oi, who plays the narrator Laddu, brings charm and wit to the story and acts as the glue that ties the narrative together. Narne Nithin and Ram Nithin play their roles well and add to the group’s chemistry, even though their characters are more grounded.

The supporting cast, including college seniors, lecturers, and classmates, contribute to the vibrant campus atmosphere. No one feels out of place, and the performances are natural, enhancing the film’s appeal.

Direction and Writing

Kalyan Shankar deserves credit for creating a believable and fun college universe. The storytelling is crisp, non-linear, and filled with laugh-out-loud scenes. Unlike many debut films, Mad doesn’t try too hard to be everything at once. It focuses on humor and succeeds without relying on overused tropes or emotional manipulation.

The script is dialogue-heavy, with quirky one-liners and humorous exchanges that connect well with younger audiences. The final-year flashback structure keeps things interesting and adds depth to the characters without slowing down the pace.

Technical Aspects

The cinematography captures the campus life beautifully with vibrant visuals. Editing is sharp, keeping the film’s rhythm tight and engaging. The music and background score complement the mood, although the songs themselves are more functional than memorable. The production design accurately reflects a typical Indian engineering college setting, adding to the film’s authenticity.

What Works

  • Excellent comic timing and performances

  • Relatable characters and situations

  • Tight editing and breezy pacing

  • Youth-friendly humor that doesn’t try too hard

  • Nostalgic college vibes without over-dramatization

What Could Be Better

  • Limited story depth and emotional range

  • Some jokes may feel repetitive or crude to older viewers

  • Music could have been more impactful

Box Office and Reception

Made on a modest budget of around ₹8 crore, Mad turned out to be a surprise commercial hit, grossing over ₹24 crore. Critics praised the film for its simplicity, energy, and humor. Audiences, especially young viewers and students, connected deeply with its content, making it one of the most talked-about Telugu comedies of the year.

The Hindu called it a “fun riot,” while Film Companion noted that “logic doesn’t matter when laughter is this consistent.” On IMDb, users rated it highly for its entertainment value and relatable depiction of campus life.

Final Verdict

Mad is a lively and laughter-filled film that captures the essence of college life without resorting to clichés. It’s not trying to be deep or philosophical, and that’s its biggest strength. If you enjoy lighthearted comedies with great performances and quick wit, Mad is a must-watch.

It may not be for everyone, especially if you’re looking for a strong storyline or intense drama. But for those who just want to have a good time and revisit the carefree days of college, this movie delivers in full.

Should You Watch It?

Watch it if you:

  • Love campus comedies with energetic young actors

  • Enjoy films like Jathi Ratnalu or 3 Idiots

  • Want something light, funny, and engaging

Skip it if you:

  • Prefer serious plots or emotional drama

  • Are uncomfortable with crude or over-the-top humor

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Conclusion

Mad (2023) is a welcome addition to Telugu comedy cinema. It’s bold, funny, relatable, and refreshingly honest. With energetic performances and a no-nonsense approach to storytelling, it’s the kind of movie that reminds you of college friends, crazy pranks, and the carefree joy of youth. For its target audience, Mad hits all the right notes.