Review: Chiki Chiki Buboom Boom – A Riotous Comic Thriller That Leaves You in Splits!
Marathi cinema has long been celebrated for its thought-provoking narratives and socially relevant themes. However, an equally beloved genre that has stood the test of time is comedy. From the golden era of stage plays to the advent of blockbuster films, Marathi comedy has given audiences unforgettable characters and iconic performances. Television, too, has played a significant role in shaping comedic talent, with #MaharashtrachiHasyajatra reigning supreme as a fan-favorite show. Now, an ensemble of this very show, along with Marathi superstars #SwwapnilJoshi and #PrarthanaBehere, come together under the direction of Prasad Khandekar to deliver a madcap entertainer—Chiki Chiki Buboom Boom. A perfect blend of humor and suspense, this comic thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat while making you laugh out loud.
A seemingly harmless college reunion takes a bizarre turn when a group of friends find themselves in the midst of an unexpected murder mystery. Ravee, the ever-enthusiastic honeymoon planner (Prajakta Mali), Bhaiyya, the political figure (Prasad Khandekar), Tumdev, the wild card (Rohit Mane), and Aditya, the local lad (Prathamesh Shivalkar), gather in a remote village for some nostalgic revelry. Aditya’s friend Vaibhav (Swwapnil Joshi) makes arrangements for their stay at the Kakacha Wada, while another friend, Dhanashree (Prarthana Behere), joins them later.
Amidst the celebrations, a shocking discovery halts their merriment—a dead body (Vanita Kharat) is found stuffed inside a sofa. To make matters worse, Tumdev had unknowingly spiked everyone’s drinks, ruling out the option of approaching the police with a clear conscience. Things get even more chaotic when the unsuspecting Padhye family (Nikhil Ratnaparkhi, Chetna Bhat, and Shlok Khandekar) arrives at the bungalow for a peaceful stay. Just when they think the situation couldn’t spiral further, another corpse turns up. The group struggles to keep the ghastly truth under wraps while juggling a series of unexpected visitors—including Abadan (Sachin Goswami), Anush (Omkar Raut), and Sweety (Priyadarshini Indalkar), who are in search of Tumdev, a prospective groom for Sweety. As the madness escalates, enter Inspector Vitthal Manjrekar (Abhijit Chavan), turning their already topsy-turvy situation into a full-blown catastrophe. What follows is an uproarious chain of events that keeps the audience engaged till the very end.
The screenplay, penned by Prathamesh Shivalkar and Prasad Khandekar, is tightly woven, ensuring the comedy and thrills unfold at just the right moments. Every twist adds to the hilarity, making the film an unpredictable yet thoroughly entertaining ride. The dialogues are crisp and packed with witty one-liners, some of which are bound to stay with you long after the credits roll. Prasad Khandekar, honing his directorial craft since Ekda Yeun Tar Bagha…, takes a significant leap forward with this film, demonstrating impeccable control over both comedy and suspense. The film never loses its grip on the audience, maintaining a fast-paced rhythm that keeps the laughter flowing while building curiosity around the unfolding mystery. The film’s technical aspects, including its cinematography, production design, and background score, contribute significantly to its overall charm. The music, especially the title track played during the end credits, is a delightful earworm that lingers.
Swwapnil Joshi, known for his versatility, proves yet again why he is one of Marathi cinema’s most bankable stars. Effortlessly switching between humor and intensity, he steals the show, particularly in the climactic sequences where his character unveils a new side. Prarthana Behere and Prajakta Mali blend seamlessly into the comedy universe, delivering delightful performances that never feel forced. Prasad Khandekar is convincing in his role, but it is Prathamesh Shivalkar and Rohit Mane who truly shine, adding layers of humor and quirkiness that elevate the film. Aishwarya Badade, in a special dance number, impresses with her energetic moves. Meanwhile, Omkar Raut, Priyadarshini Indalkar, Sachin Goswami, Abhijit Chavan, Chetna Bhat, Nikhil Ratnaparkhi, and Prabhakar More lend solid support, each adding to the film’s chaotic brilliance.
If you’re in the mood for an out-and-out entertainer that blends sharp comedy with an engaging whodunit, Chiki Chiki Buboom Boom is your perfect pick.
Rating : ****
By Keerti Kadam