Mard Ko Dard Nahin Hota (2018) User Reviews

MAMI Review: Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (7 Stars)

[nairtejas · 7/10 · 26 October 2018]

If Gulshan Devaiah came to me and told me that he wants my house I would willingly give it to him. Such is his magical charisma in the film (and in almost all) that I can't resist but start this review of Vasan Bala's second feature, Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (The Man Who Feels No Pain) by singing his praises despite it being a masterful work of superb cast performances (including the lead Abhimannyu Dassani and Radhika Madan). He comes second in the silly yet full-of-life plot that narrates the story of Surya (Dassani), a young man born with a life-threatning rare disease which prevents him from feeling any pain, who yearns to push evil off the face of at least his small world. Helping him in his venture are the characters that I am in love with. In addition to Devaiah, Mahesh Manjrekar is the man who helps in making the film more memorable as you end the film humming that one number from the indie, upbeat soundtrack that has stayed with you and reminded you of a time when fun was simply watching a video of your favourite kung-fu hero in a VHS tape at your wealthy friend's house. Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota is brilliantly crafted by Bala with some of the best action choreography and music mixing I have seen all year this year. The humour is local, original, and bang-on ROFL material. If you are okay with shedding all threads of realism and watching a film for what it is (ultimate silliness) you will love this action comedy film more than I did. It is made for the generation of cinema consumers who would get it more if I use a certain term, so I will: it's on fleek. TN.

(Watched and reviewed at the 20th MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.)

Big Trouble in Little Matunga

[nsd-17445 · 8/10 · 23 March 2019]

Vasan Bala's incredibly funny and action packed 'Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota' is his love letter to all the action movies we watched growing up. In this superhero origin story from Matunga, he has managed to insert tiny references to all these movies in unlimited amounts. Be it the costume of Hammer Girl from 'The Raid 2', the tournament from 'Enter the Dragon', a water backpack used as a McGuffin and even the cliché twin brothers plot device used in countless Bollywood commercial potboilers.

Surya is a boy suffering from congenital insensitivity to pain, meaning he can't feel pain and has to keep drinking water to keep himself alive. Raised in captivity for 12 years by his idiotic but controlling father and a cool liberal grandfather, he has spent most of his time watching Kung-Fu movies and looks up to Karate Mani, a true legend in his city. He also has a childhood friend Supri who fights with everyone to protect Surya but can't stand up against her abusive father. These are very relatable characters and you start caring for them instantly. The innocent and childlike performance by Abhimanyu Dassani makes him even easier to care for. He is an actor with superb physicality along with acting skills, unlike say, Tiger Shroff who can't act to save his life. Radhika Madan deserves accolades for carrying such a layered and difficult role effortlessly. Surya and Supri deserve to be a part of the MCU. Special Mention to the scene stealer Gulshan Devaiyah in a double role, whose backstory is told in by far the most hilarious flashback scene since Bejoy Nambiar's 'Shaitaan'. Writer and Director Vasan Bala has finally proven himself to be an adept storyteller. His script is brilliantly detailed and filled with jokes and movie references that are left for the audience to grasp.

'Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota' is a film-grain VHS fueled package of insanity coupled with masterful action and Edgar Wright styled editing. There's a scene towards the end that hints clearly at the jingoistic clichés of movies like 'Kesari'. "You have to go to the next screen" Surya says. I strongly suggest you to go to a screen where this absurdist action comedy is playing.

A HUGE step forward for Bollywood!

[ronakkotian · 8/10 · 28 June 2019]

I cannot describe how fun this movie actually is.

This is one of the most creative surprises I have ever seen come out of Bollywood. This film is just AMAZING!

The story follows Surya, a man who has a condition that allows him to not feel pain, as he tries to get rid of all the thieves and bandits in his area.

There are so many aspects of this movie which are so well done. Vasan Bala's script reminds you of Deadpool so much as he makes this superhero idea so self aware. The constant fourth wall breaking brings out some of the funniest scenes ever. I love the way Bala made fun of all the Superhero film clichés as it adds so much to the film's tone and characters. He adds so much development and care to each persona in order to understand and relate to them as much as possible. Bala's direction is splendid and has a lot of style especially during the action scenes. His direction also takes inspiration from Edgar Wright when he uses close-ups accompanied with quick cuts.

The performances are incredible. As his acting debut, Abhimanyu Dassani does complete justice to Surya and really nails the character. Radhika Madan is amazing as Supri. She conveys emotions perfectly so you care about her. For me, Gulshan Devaiah was a standout. Playing two polar opposite roles isn't easy but he does it with such ease and the chemistry both characters share is beyond hilarious.

The action choreography is fantastic and fun to feast your eyes upon. The soundtrack is very quirky and original as it contributes to the film's comedic tone. The one main flaw I have with the movie is its editing. At times, it's brilliant, fast paced and flows correctly with the movie's style but towards the middle of the film, it begins to drag and made me start to lose interest but fortunately the pacing speeds up near the final act.

Overall, Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota is an experience I won't forget easily. Its perfect blend of characters, action and witty humour shows that Bollywood can be diverse and creative as well as being enjoyable. This proved to me that Bollywood has changed. All I hope is for people to recognize this change.

Definition of cool

[tiwarirohit-30248 · 10/10 · 24 March 2019]

It's one of the most funniest and coolest movie I have seen in a while. Amazing story and unique concept. Loved how they mocked Cliche bollywood movies 🔥. Felt like I was watching an Edgar Wright movie. Soundtrack is also great. It's worth your time and money.

One of the most entertaining and whimsical action films to come out of India

[Jithindurden · 9/10 · 26 March 2019]

The love for actions films from 80s Bollywood, South Indian films, Chinese and Japanese action films and even the present Hindi and American films can be seen not just from the references and homages but it can be felt from each shot and dialogues. As the protagonist sets out to stand against everything evil as he has learnt from the numerous action films from his childhood which is his only real interaction with the outside world we also see how much heart was behind making this film in a way that the story can be viewed as a metaphor for the making of this film itself. Hearing lines like "You are a Kamal fan and not Rajini fan which is why you have grown this beard and started drinking" in between all the madness going on in this film was a golden moment for me. Only a South Indian film buff would be able to find all the references and homages in this film. The action choreography is so well done in this film. Unlike usual Indian action films in which most of the Villain's goons are just there too run and roar here each of them made it felt like they know what they are doing. We also got a legitimate action heroine in Radhika Madan who did all her stunts herself and was an actual powerful and believable character. Making fun of cliches never felt this respectful before. I already want to see this film again and I want that sequel they promised at the end.

It is a one time watch for its unusual form.

[nimishgour · 6/10 · 25 July 2019]

I was intrigued to watch this film when i Saw its trailer. But somehow I couldn't watch it in the theaters and saw it on home video after almost an year of its release.

This is surely a movie one can not overlook. The novelty of its treatment forces everyone to take a note of it. The style and treatment of the story is just fabulous., It is first time seen in any Hindi film.

I enjoyed it initially but after half an hour I was bored of it as the story was not moving forward. I feel that this film is almost an hour longer than it's natural length. Due to this, One feels cheated and utterly unsatisfied at the end of the movie.

In Hollywood, this type of stylized storytelling is forte of Quentin Tarantino. But in Tarantino's film the style is supported by solid writing which is unfortunately not the case here.

Due to over emphasis on the style, nowhere we could empathize with the characters. This made the film emotionally dry. Instead of the protagonist Surya and Supri, we felt more connected with Surya's dad and grandfather. Mahesh Manjrekar stands out in the entire cast followed by Gulsha Devaiah. They are prolific actors and here they are supported by writing. But this is not the case with the main lead.

Technically the film is excellent. The only disappointment is writing and hence editing.

People tend to exclaim when they see something unusual for the first time. Perhaps that is the reason for this film getting so high rating from others.

Must Watch! All the action packed fun you need

[mugdhataksali · 10/10 · 22 March 2019]

You must talk about #mardkodardnahihota Such amazing monotony breaker fresh cinema need more promotion. I loved it. More people should watch it. The way the narrative progresses without skipping a beat keeps your eyes glued to the screen. Stellar power packed performances by whole ensemble cast specially lead @abhimanyudasani and cliche villain @gulshandevaih are the show stoppers in this one. Must watch in theatre.. Don't miss it .

A novel concept with scripting issues

[adhyayan_reviews · 6/10 · 22 March 2019]

This film deserves a watch for the sake of the ambition itself even more so coming from Bollywood where films are only getting more generic. The acting and the fight sequences are the highlight. However at 127 minutes or so I felt the film to be dragging for almost half the runtime. If only they could have had more laugh out loud moments and a sturdy plot to keep me interested throughout. The climax is a winner and so are Abhimanyu, Radhika and Gulshan (in probably one of his best roles so far). Vasan Bala has shown promise and I hope they improve upon the shortcomings of this film in the teased sequel (if at all one gets made)

90 nostalgia

[porwal_1989 · 9/10 · 21 March 2019]

Woah!!! this one is surely one heck of a ride. Too much fun. Bring every element of 90 including a song from Balasubramanium. Humour is top notch and so is the action. The mani brothers especially evil mani needs recognition he is too damn good. Best entertainer of 2019

Dont miss this.

You are in for a surprise

[AnonymousbutDilpreet002 · 6/10 · 8 January 2020]

Beside the mainstream Hindi cinema, there exists underground filmmakers who keep churning out good films. These are mostly not your regulwr masala flicks, have relevant subjects, better acting and are open to experiment. Vasan Bala, who worked with Anurag Kashyap earlier, made his presence felt among emerging niche film makers with Mard ko dard Nahi Hota.

MKDNH is a story of a boy with a rare disease. He can feel no pain. And that's not as enjoyable as one thinks. He can get a bone fractured without knowing. Besides this, he constantly needs water to avoid dehydaration. His grandfather helps to deal with the disease. Boy gets addicted to fight CD's and yearns to become a fighter. Being a child, he lives in his dream world and makes some silly mistakes that costs him and his family. His father, then strictly kept him inside their house and didn't allow him to go outside. As a result, his world becomes restricted to filmy world. What will happen when he gets to come face the real world?

First half is spent in building story. There is some good humour. Second half is mostly just action and that's where I felt bored. In between, the narrator takes a dig at Bollywood masala films. It can be classified as a spoof filmand not just comedy. But IMDB does'nt categorize spoof films separately.

Minor problems with with film are: 1. Length: Atleat 15-20 minutes could have been cut out in 2nd half. 2.There are so many stunts in 2nd half that it becomes boring.

A MUST WATCH

[jetkot · 10/10 · 3 June 2019]

This film is brilliant. Director Vasan Bala has made a gem. It has mindblowing action and comedy, The debuntante Abhimanyu Dassani has child like innocence. Radhika Madan is fierce and a delight to watch in action scenes. Gulshan Deviaah as Karate Mani and Psycho Villian Jimmy takes the cake. I laughed out loud in every scene . He has the charisma and style.

Action Comedy And perfect Tinch of Drama

[Rish_tweets · 7/10 · 23 March 2019]

Right from Scene one the film breaks Bollywood stereotype.Without loosing time quickly builds up a platform & the laughter riot takes off.Young Surya is adorable.Multiple references are there in the film where connection with Pop culture is highlighted & those are quirky. Be it ''gareebon ka shehenshah'' or Schumacher punches hit right nodes.Some places film drags but picks up again.Action scenes are hilarious so does the Mahesh Manjreekar as COOLEST Ajoba (Grandfather) I have seen on screen. Gulsan Devaiah plays a Superchilled Villain and delivers few amazing Jokes with straight face. Abhimanyu Dasani plays title role with ease. Screenplay, Direction & Production keeps up to expectation except some hiccups.

Special Mention to Karan Kulkarni for the TOD PHOD background Score.Use of Tere liye is lovable and pitch perfect.Use of Marathi cliches in background was unexpectedly pleasant.

I wont say the same line That this is breathe of Fresh air in Bollywood and blah blah...But it definitely packs punch to be a path breaking movie when it comes to ACTION Comedies.

Directionless direction

[rahul-rdthecool-das · 3/10 · 14 March 2020]

Director wanted to make a stylish, cool movie with some sort of artistic touch but did a blunder finally by making this kind of movie.

This was really boring to watch. One can easily watch this in 15 mins because there were no highlights.

Gave these stars for some good technical aspects and some brilliant camera work.

An Unique Approach In Bollywood That Surprisingly Worked!

[SoumikBanerjee1996 · 9/10 · 27 June 2019]

Being an Indian, who watches a lot of movies from Bollywood as well as from Hollywood productions ; I must say as a Bollywood film it surprised me a lot! The concept and the execution is top notch and nothing ever seen before type! Kudos to the director and the producers to invest courageously in a project which might have simply become a failure! They took the risk and it worked out pretty amazing!

As the performances go, the debutant Abhimanyu (Son of Bhagyashree) has done an amazing job! I applaud him for choosing this kind of out of the box concept rather than some stereotypical Bollywood movie in his very first work in the industry. A GREAT START, I must say!

Radhika Madan, A Famous name in TV Show industry done an pretty awesome job too! Her action sequences as well as the conversation scenes were a pleasure to watch! She justified her character as 'Supri' fully.

Now comes to Gulshan Devaiah! What a performance man! Hands down! Doing two different personalities simultaneously is a daunting task and he played it brilliantly!

On the other side the Action sequences, editing, the retro style of soundtrack all mixed up pretty well with each other and was a perfect fit for the movie as well!

Although there are some pacing issues in it, especially in the middle parts but it is negligible as long as you are invested in the characters and the action scenes (There's a bunch of)!

Overall a really great film, something fresh and brilliantly executed! Go watch it and support these kind of movies more, they need the deserved exposure! :)

Awesome!

[uzijariwala · 9/10 · 22 March 2019]

Don't waste time reading this, go watch the film it's worth it!

Scott Pilgrim of Bollywood

[frahman · 7/10 · 13 January 2020]

Those of you who have watched Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, knows where the inspiration came from. I would say a good effort by the filmmaker. Most important part was the story telling was overall engaging. Not really a dull moment anywhere. As for the actors, they did a great job.

All in all, it was a fun movie to watch. I hope Bollywood does more experimental works; doesn't matter if they are inspired or original.

I give it a 7.5

Mad mad journey with 90s nostalgia!

[vin_shaili · 9/10 · 23 March 2019]

MKDNH is a mad mad journey packed with some hilarious moments and kickass action sequences. Probably the best hand combat scenes seen in a Bollywood movie.

While Abhimanyu and Radhika were great but for me Gulshan Deviah stole the show. Deviah is a Rockstar, nonchalantly pulling off two contrasting characters. Radhikas entry to Nakhrewali song is such a delight to watch and her car action scene is prolly something which Bollywood has never seen a lead actress do. As for Abhimanyu, it doesn't seem that MKDNH is his first movie. He narrates and takes you on his journey without pain which although odd, rare and superhuman, feels pretty genuine as depicted.

Very well written

[dev-patidar777 · 7/10 · 28 April 2020]

As the title, it's very well written. You'll get emotions, comedy, drama and of course karate. But my only complaint about the movie is that there's lots of slow motion going. It's get boring after a while when every shot is a slow motion. So minus the Slow motion l, it's a good to watch.

I hope they make a sequel of it. It would be great to watch RadhikaMadan again in kickass action.

Something Unique!

[sarangs722 · 10/10 · 19 June 2019]

I usually don't write reviews for films. But here I am. This movie is a masterpiece. Something that I have never witnessed in Indian cinema. I loved the story, acting, and direction. A joyful, fun, hilarious ride that everyone will love. Probably one of the best movies of 2018.

Big treat in a little basket

[rehmankhilji · 7/10 · 1 June 2019]

What a nice weekend watch, a full action packed with genuine fighting and beautiful direction from the word go. Not a typical bollywood movie, beautiful played fighting scenes and with that touch of humor, brilliant. Vasan Bala has directed without a doubt wonderfully. Abhimanyu Dasani, what a wonderful action material actor, boy surely have some skills and is worth to look out for. Radhika Madan, finally a proper bollywood female action actresses with loads of cuteness and pretiness. In short, full recipe of a nice indian movie and a must watch.

Highly recommended

[rahulhimself · 10/10 · 8 June 2019]

One of the best movies in recent times i have seen...its an ode to bruce lee / jackie chan kind of movies...the action is superb and so is the acting...you feel a genuine connect with the characters...I understand not everyone would connect to this kind of comedy...hats off to the makers for taking risk and giving us this gem!!

A fantastic Comical superhuman movie

[abhineet150 · 7/10 · 20 March 2019]

The movie is definitely worth watching. The script and direction is superb and so strong that even when Abhimanyu's acting graph tends to lower down,the script overshadows it and compliment Abhimanyu making him a superstar in the movie. Radhika Madan looks ecstatic and her stunts and actions are equally commendable and empowers her making her stand out. Coming to Gulshan Devaiya,his double role in both positive and negative role is well acted and executed.He is one of the actors who have all ingredients of a Good actor and he is hugely to be credited for uplifting Mard Ko dar Nahi hota.

Last but all the least Mahesh Manjrekar and other supporting actors have done their part of role in well manner and should get the accolade s well.

thanks Vasan bala ,RSVP for an entertaining movie which is worth a must watch.

Wait a minute, what is this?

[itssubrata-16362 · 2/10 · 29 December 2019]

There are so many reviews with high rating. I never seen a dull movie like this.where is the story? Such a waste of time.

must watch

[kuldeeplucknow · 9/10 · 2 June 2019]

Movies like this should be appreciated due to their fresh content and amazing screenplay. This is a must watch flick.

I want a next part of this

[siddheshrara · 10/10 · 27 April 2019]

Just amazing A different but so awesome movie. Best superhero movie for sure.