The Housefull series has made a name for itself over time as the place to go for crazy comedy mixed-up identities, and lively characters. Review of Housefull 5, which hit screens on June 6, 2025, takes the biggest jump yet for the series setting off on a cruise ship traveling through European waters. Tarun Mansukhani directed and Sajid Nadiadwala produced this fifth movie, which tries to keep up the tradition of making people laugh while bringing in a new look and movie-like polish.
Review of Housefull 5 of Plot
A luxury cruise ship provides the backdrop for this comedy sailing from Newcastle to Spain and Normandy before returning to Plymouth. The film draws its laughs from the cramped quarters and close relationships of its diverse group of characters. The story revolves around a complex web of marriages, identities, and hidden truths. As the passengers try to figure out who’s married to whom and who’s pretending to be someone else, the ship goes off course both figuratively and, at one point actually.
The limited space on board gives a new spin to the series’ signature style of mayhem. In this installment, the craziness stays contained, without hopping across continents or roaming through big estates leading to closer interactions and quick-fire humor. Picture The Love Boat mixed with No Entry, plus a bit of Shakespeare-like mix-ups.
Review of Housefull 5 Cast
The film boasts perhaps the most star-studded lineup in the franchise so far:
Akshay Kumar leads with his signature comic flair. Despite the ensemble format, his presence anchors the narrative, and many fans have described him as the “soul of the film.” His double-takes, timing, and physical comedy remind us why he’s long been Bollywood’s comic king.
Riteish Deshmukh and Abhishek Bachchan return with commendable performances. Riteish, with his impeccable comic instincts, plays off Akshay beautifully, while Abhishek brings a certain restrained goofiness that adds balance to the trio.
The film also features Chunky Pandey, Sanjay Dutt, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, and Nana Patekar. Their presence elevates the ensemble to a generational showdown of sorts, blending old-school and new-age Bollywood comedy.
On the female front, Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangda Singh, Sonam Bajwa, and Soundarya Sharma are more than just glamour additions. They have well-written comedic roles, each contributing to the film’s chaotic yet charming progression.
Review of Housefull 5 Direction
Director Tarun Mansukhani (of Dostana fame) brings a polished, vibrant touch to the film. The decision to shoot the film entirely on a cruise ship is as bold as it is refreshing. Every location, from the ship’s ballroom to the Spanish coastlines, feels opulent and adds to the grandiosity.
Cinematographer Ayananka Bose captures the sweeping sea vistas and interiors of the cruise with a vibrant color palette. The dance sequences (especially one during sunset on the ship’s deck) are particularly memorable, with foot-tapping choreography and extravagant costumes.
Sound design and editing are slick, though the pacing does lag in parts, particularly during the film’s second act. The comic beats don’t always land, and some sequences feel unnecessarily stretched.
Review of Housefull 5 Background Core
The soundtrack blends energetic dance numbers with situational comedy songs. Tracks like “Nautanki Nautical” and “Love Mein Life Jacket” are already trending. The music does its job, adding energy, facilitating transitions, and elevating the madness. The background score complements the farcical tone, using whimsical musical cues to highlight punchlines and character quirks.
Review of Housefull 5 Box Office & Budget
Made on an estimated budget of ₹375 crore, Housefull 5 is one of the most expensive comedy films in Indian cinema. The gamble seems to be paying off. Within its first week, the film crossed the ₹127 crore mark, thanks to strong weekend numbers and family appeal. Despite some lukewarm critical reviews, the audience footfall, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, has been strong. The movie’s broad humor and extravagant visuals are drawing in crowds.
Review of Housefull 5 Theme
At its heart, Housefull 5 is a classic farce. Mistaken identities, twin confusion, cross-dressing, secret romances, it’s all here. What’s new is the physical setting and the slick execution.
That said, some criticisms are valid. The humor does lean heavily on innuendo, and while it avoids being crass, it’s not exactly refined either. A section of viewers has pointed out the reliance on recycled gags and predictable jokes. For others, though, it’s comfort food comedy, familiar, loud, and entertaining. The climax introduces a “killer twist,” adding an unexpected mystery angle. While some found it innovative, others felt it was shoehorned in for shock value.
Conclusion
Housefull 5 is not a film that tries to be subtle or sophisticated. It wears its absurdity with pride. If you’re expecting thought-provoking cinema or Oscar-level writing, you’re on the wrong deck. But if you’re looking for laughter, glamor, and three hours of pure, unapologetic madness, this cruise is well worth boarding.
Despite its flaws, predictable humor, occasional pacing issues, and reliance on tropes, Housefull 5 succeeds in doing what it sets out to: entertain. It’s a visual treat, a comic spectacle, and a testament to Bollywood’s ability to turn even the silliest premise into a festival of fun.
Rating: 3.5/5
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