A Riotous Return for Bollywood’s Biggest Comedy Franchise
With Housefull 5, which was produced by Sajid Nadiadwala’s Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and directed by Tarun Mansukhani, Bollywood’s cherished Housefull franchise returned to theaters on June 6, 2025. Starring Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, and a staggering ensemble of 19 A-list actors, this comedy thriller promises a whirlwind of laughs, chaos, and a unique murder mystery twist.
Does it, however, live up to the expectations? In this Housefull 5 movie review, we’ll explore five compelling reasons why this film is a standout, while addressing the mixed reactions it’s sparked among fans and critics.
Picture this: a luxurious cruise ship, a billionaire’s mysterious death, and three men—each claiming to be the heir to a £69 billion fortune—caught in a hilarious web of mistaken identities. Add to that a groundbreaking dual-ending format, and you’ve got a recipe for a cinematic experience that’s as bold as it is entertaining. Let’s dive into why Housefull 5 is making waves and whether it’s worth your ticket.
A Star-Studded Cast That Delivers Comic Gold
A Constellation of Bollywood Heavyweights
Housefull 5 assembles one of Bollywood’s most star-studded line-ups to date, transforming the silver screen into a full-blown cinematic carnival. Leading the charge is Akshay Kumar, flanked by Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, Nargis Fakhri, Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, and Nana Patekar—part of an extraordinary cast of 19 prominent names. It’s less a film and more a parade of personalities, each bringing distinct energy: Akshay delivers his trademark slapstick brilliance, Riteish lights up scenes with his zany antics, and Abhishek anchors moments with razor-sharp humor.
Director Tarun Mansukhani reflected on the experience, saying, “Juggling 19 major stars felt like organizing a glamorous riot. On paper, it sounded overwhelming, and in reality—it was wonderfully chaotic. But what surprised me most was the chemistry. There were no egos—just passion, laughter, and a shared madness for storytelling.”
This camaraderie shines through, with scenes like the lively “Laal Pari” dance number showcasing the cast’s infectious energy. Fans on social media have praised Akshay Kumar’s return as the “king of comedy,” with one X user noting, “Just look at his presence and expressions”.
Standout Performances
Though the cast reads like a who’s who of Bollywood, it’s Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Abhishek Bachchan who serve as the comedic core of Housefull 5, portraying Jalaluddin, Jalbhushan, and Julius—each hilariously convinced he’s the rightful heir to the enigmatic billionaire, “Jolly.” Their on-screen camaraderie rekindles the zany charm of earlier Housefull films but with a new twist, thanks to the added suspense and whodunit intrigue. Meanwhile, Nana Patekar’s authoritative delivery commands attention in every frame, and Johnny Lever’s eccentric humor injects bursts of laughter at just the right moments—making the film a fast-paced rollercoaster of mystery and mirth.
However, some viewers have criticized the overcrowded cast, arguing that certain actors, like Fardeen Khan and Chitrangada Singh, get limited screen time. Despite this, the sheer star power makes Housefull 5 a visual treat for fans of Bollywood’s multi-starrer tradition.
A Bold Experiment with Dual Endings
Why Two Climaxes?
In a groundbreaking move, producer Sajid Nadiadwala has introduced two versions of Housefull 5—Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B—each with a different killer revealed in the climax. This concept, inspired by the 1985 Hollywood film Clue, is a first for Indian cinema and adds a layer of intrigue to the theatrical experience. “Why should the audience always have just one version of the truth in a thriller?” Nadiadwala asked, explaining his 30-year vision for this format.
The dual endings encourage repeat viewership, as curious fans may watch both versions to uncover the alternate killer. BookMyShow has even listed the two versions distinctly to help audiences choose. Early reactions suggest this gimmick is a hit, with one fan on X calling it “a true team performance with a stunning climax”.
Does It Work?
The dual-ending strategy is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it creates buzz and encourages social media discussions about “which ending did you get?” On the other, some viewers have found the concept confusing, with one X user lamenting, “Film hai ya corn factory BC?”. To fully appreciate both endings, audiences must sit through the entire 2-hour-43-minute film twice, which could test patience for those unimpressed by the plot’s complexity. Still, the novelty of this approach makes Housefull 5 a must-see for its sheer audacity.
A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Suspense
Reinventing the Housefull Formula
The Housefull franchise is synonymous with slapstick humor and chaotic storytelling, but Housefull 5 takes it up a notch by weaving in a murder mystery. Set on a lavish cruise ship sailing from Newcastle to Spain, the film follows the chaos that ensues after a billionaire’s death sparks a whodunit. Akshay Kumar’s character leads a ragtag group of passengers in solving the mystery, all while navigating mistaken identities and over-the-top antics.
One moviegoer called it “a quirky blend of classic slapstick humor wrapped inside an unexpected whodunit—equal parts chaotic and clever.” The film retains the franchise’s signature loud, massy vibe but introduces suspense elements that keep audiences guessing. The trailer, certified U/A with a runtime of 3 minutes 56 seconds, sets the tone with quirky flute music and a glimpse of the star-studded chaos.
Mixed Reactions to the Plot
While fans of the franchise have hailed Housefull 5 as “a riotous rollercoaster of laughs and suspense”, critics have been less kind. Some X users called the plot “confusing” and “lazily constructed,” with one reviewer giving it a scathing 1.5 stars and labeling it the “weakest film in the franchise”. Others, however, appreciated the fresh approach, with a fan noting, “It’s a volcano of entertainment!”. The film’s ability to balance humor with a thriller narrative makes it a unique addition to the series, even if it doesn’t resonate with everyone.
A Visual and Musical Extravaganza
A Cruise Ship Spectacle
Housefull 5 is a visual feast, shot over 40 days on a lavish trip that sailed from Newcastle to Spain, Normandy, Honfleur, and back to Plymouth. The vibrant cruise ship setting, complete with opulent interiors and scenic ocean views, elevates the film’s larger-than-life feel. Cinematographer Manikandan captures the glamour and chaos with flair, making every frame pop with color and energy.
The film’s scale is unmatched, with trade sources calling it “the most expensive film in the comedy genre in India”. From lavish dance sequences to dramatic confrontations, Housefull 5 delivers the kind of big-screen spectacle that demands a theatrical viewing.
A Soundtrack That Stays With You
The soundtrack, featuring contributions from Yo Yo Honey Singh, White Noise Collectives, Tanishk Bagchi, and Kratex, is another highlight. Songs like “Laal Pari,” “Dil E Nadaan,” “Qayamat,” and “The Phoogdi Dance” have been released to much fanfare, with “Qayamat” earning praise for its stunning choreography by Adil Shaikh. Despite a brief copyright hiccup with “Laal Pari,” which led to the teaser’s temporary removal from YouTube, the music has added to the film’s buzz.
One X user summed it up: “Catchy music and great comic timing make #Housefull5 a hilarious joyride”. The background score by Julius Packiam complements the film’s frenetic pace, ensuring the laughs and thrills never let up.
A Box Office Behemoth in the Making
Advance Booking Success
Housefull 5 hit the ground running with ₹8 crore in advance bookings, with Housefull 5A contributing ₹5.67 crore and Housefull 5B adding ₹2.35 crore. Released across 5,000 screens—the widest release for a Hindi film in recent times—the film is poised for a strong opening. According to trade analysts, the film is expected to earn between ₹20 and ₹25 crore on its first day, which might beat the earnings of Akshay Kumar’s recent films, such as Sky Force (₹11.50 crore) and Raid 2 (₹19.50 crore).
If positive word-of-mouth holds, Housefull 5 could mark Akshay’s biggest opening since Sooryavanshi (₹26.50 crore) in 2021. The film’s massive scale and star power give it an edge over competitors, though it faces stiff competition from Chhaava (₹31 crore) and Sikandar (₹26 crore) in 2025’s box office race.
Will It Break Records?
The dual-ending strategy could boost repeat viewership, as fans flock to theaters to experience both climaxes. However, mixed reviews may temper its long-term performance. While some fans have called it “the best in the franchise”, others have labeled it “disappointing” and “cringe”. The film’s success will hinge on its ability to sustain audience interest beyond the opening weekend.
Addressing the Criticism: Is Housefull 5 Worth Your Time?
The Naysayers Speak
Not everyone is sold on Housefull 5. Some X users have slammed the film for its “ghatiya plot” and “over-the-top performances,” with one reviewer calling it “a comedy for 69 lovers, not for regular comedy lovers”. Critics have pointed out similarities to older films like Lal Americayil (1989) and Waris (1969), though Housefull 5 incorporates unique elements to stand on its own.
The film’s length—2 hours and 43 minutes—has also drawn flak, with some viewers finding the second half confusing. For those seeking a tightly plotted comedy, Housefull 5’s chaotic energy might feel overwhelming.
Why It Still Works
Despite the criticism, Housefull 5 delivers what it promises: a larger-than-life, family-friendly entertainer. This installment will not let you down if you enjoy the unrepentant crazy of the Housefull franchise. The dual endings, stellar cast, and vibrant production values make it a theatrical experience worth savoring. As one fan put it, “It’s a perfect blend of comedy, chaos, and clever twists—exactly what fans expect”.
How Housefull 5 Fits Into Bollywood’s 2025 Landscape
A Year of Big Releases
2025 has been a rollercoaster for Bollywood, with hits like Sikandar and Chhaava setting the bar high. Housefull 5 enters the fray with a unique proposition: a comedy thriller that dares to experiment. Its release coincides with Thug Life, creating a box office clash that has fans buzzing. Yet, the film’s massive star cast and innovative format give it a fighting chance to dominate the charts.
The Franchise’s Legacy
Since its debut in 2010, the Housefull franchise has grossed $118 million worldwide, cementing its status as India’s biggest comedy series. Housefull 5 builds on this legacy by pushing boundaries, both in scale and storytelling. As Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment celebrates its 75th anniversary, the film’s ambitious release strategy signals a new era for Bollywood comedies.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch Housefull 5?
A daring, anarchic, and unreservedly enjoyable addition to the franchise is Housefull 5. Its star-studded cast, innovative dual endings, and vibrant production values make it a must-watch for fans of Bollywood’s massy entertainers. While it may not win over critics looking for nuanced storytelling, it delivers the laughs, thrills, and spectacle that Housefull fans crave.
So, grab your popcorn, pick your version (5A or 5B), and dive into the madness. Will you uncover the killer’s identity? Better yet, will you watch it again to find out who else it could be?
