Housefull 5 Review
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Abhishek Bachchan, Jacqueline Fernandez
Rating: ★★★
(This review is based on the 5B version of Housefull 5)
If you’ve followed the Housefull franchise, you know what to expect—madness, mayhem, and a whole lot of over-the-top comedy. Housefull 5, which hit theatres today with two different endings (versions 5A and 5B), stays true to its legacy. While fans may have their own favourites (mine are still the first two), one thing remains consistent: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Chunky Panday are back again, and they clearly know their way around slapstick.
What’s the story this time?
Surprisingly, Housefull 5 does have a plot. Written and produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Tarun Mansukhani, the film revolves around a 99-year-old billionaire (Ranjeet) who dies just before his birthday party on a cruise. He leaves behind 69 billion pounds for his son, Jolly. But then three Jollys show up—played by Akshay, Riteish, and Abhishek Bachchan—each with their own glamorous girlfriend (Nargis Fakhri, Sonam Bajwa, and Jacqueline Fernandez). When a murder takes place on board, the whodunnit begins.
But really—who watches Housefull for the plot?
The film kicks off with decent laughs, thanks to Shreyas Talpade’s comic timing. But the real energy kicks in only when Akshay enters, channeling his inner Ace Ventura. His comic timing is on point, and he easily carries many of the film’s weaker moments. The rest of the cast struggles to keep up.
The first half serves the usual Housefull tropes: mistaken identities, relationship chaos, and a generous dose of double entendres. While some jokes land, others fall flat or feel dated. Akshay is in his comfort zone here, and it shows—but the film leans heavily on his star power rather than clever writing.
Yes, a few scenes might make you cringe, but this franchise never promised political correctness. It’s all about outrageous comedy—and that comes with its flaws.
Second half improves
Post-interval, the film picks up with the introduction of two suspended cops—Baba (Jackie Shroff) and Bhidu (Sanjay Dutt)—who join the investigation. Nana Patekar also steps in as their senior, adding to the chaotic charm. This part has better pacing and delivers a few genuine laughs. The climax in version 5B, in particular, finally got the entire theatre laughing together.
Yet, something feels missing. Riteish seems underused, and Shreyas Talpade disappears for most of the film. Abhishek Bachchan, despite getting screen time, struggles to land a single laugh—a stark contrast to his performance in Bol Bachchan. The female leads, meanwhile, are mostly there for glam appeal and don’t get much else to do.
Final thoughts
Housefull 5 is like being on a cruise with a few great comedians and a script that forgot to show up. It floats along with a few laughs, some groans, and moments of genuine fun, especially toward the end. Watch it if you’re in the mood for brainless entertainment with friends who enjoy loud, quirky humour—and don’t mind a few cheesy double meaning jokes along the way.