Mataash

The announcement of demonetisation has India in a frenzy. And in Karnataka, there are three gangs of people whose life gets interlinked with new currency being on the loose.

Director SD Arvinda has attempted to bring back the entertainment that was seen in classic comedies like It's A Mad Mad World, where chaos and multiple characters ensured there was a lot happening. While the intention was right, the final product seems a tad all over the place.

The idea to have a satirical take on demonetisation is always a good idea, as it is still spoken about. This film begins with Narendra Modi's announcement of demonetisation and the days that follow. One one hand there is a petty gang from Vijayapura, who want to earn big and get their hands on a bag of old notes. There is another gang of corporate gangsters from Bengaluru, who want to exchange big black currency for new notes. Then there is a gang of boys from Mysuru who are on a holiday. Throw in a stash of new notes on the loose and two women for eye candy, you have a mad ensemble ready. When everyone's paths converge, mayhem ensues.

Mataash has the intent in place, but the story involving many characters seems too jarring at times. While there is a story in place, the journey seems rather long-winding. And the cinematography seems to play an obstacle at most times, rather than play a guide through the script. The ensemble cast seems to mostly do a good job.

The film promises to be a crazy ride with many characters, and it does seem so on paper. If you're in the mood for some comedy and satire that doesn't come with any preachy undertone, this one could be for you.