Plot: “Laughing Buddha” directed by Bharath Raj M, is set in the fictional Neeruru Police Station, where a peculiar case unfolds. The story centers around Govardhan K (Pramod Shetty) a dedicated head constable who has a unique way of handling criminals—with kindness and home-cooked food. His unconventional methods bring surprising success in solving cases, much to the frustration of his hot-headed superior.
However when a fitness ultimatum is given to the overweight police officers, including Govardhan the lightheartedness takes a turn. Just as he joins a naturopathy clinic to lose weight, he is called back on duty to crack the case of an MLA’s missing Rs. 50 lakh. The movie then follows his amusing yet earnest attempts to recover the money while juggling his personal challenges.
Rating:- 3/5
Performance: Pramod Shetty shines in the role of Govardhan bringing a charm to the character that makes him both relatable and lovable. His portrayal moves beyond the stereotypical policeman, blending humor and emotion effectively. Diganth in a supporting role adds an element of fun and unpredictability. Teju Belawadi as Govardhan’s wife provides a refreshing presence, although her character could have been more developed. The supporting cast especially the actors playing the senior officers contribute to the comedic dynamics of the story.
Technical Aspects: The film’s technical aspects are fairly straightforward but good. The cinematography captures the small-town setting and police station ambiance well adding to the film’s overall charm. The editing while sometimes a bit slow allows the humor to unfold naturally. The background score complements the film’s light-hearted tone, enhancing the comedic and emotional beats without overpowering them.
Positives:
- Humor and Light-hearted Storytelling: The film offers a unique perspective on police life, balancing humor and light-hearted moments with the seriousness of their duties.
- Engaging Performances: Pramod Shetty’s engaging performance as the lovable constable along with Diganth’s fun addition to the narrative, keeps the audience entertained.
- Relatable Themes: The film touches on themes of fitness, personal growth and the unexpected challenges of daily life making it relatable to a audience.
What Didn’t Work:
- Pacing Issues: The first half spends a lot of time on the weight-loss subplot, which could have been trimmed to maintain a tighter narrative.
- Limited Role for Female Characters: While Teju Belawadi delivers a charming performance, her character does not get enough screen time or development, which could have added more depth to the story.
Verdict: “Laughing Buddha” is a delightful family entertainer that offers a fresh take on police stories, combining humor with a hint of drama. It doesn’t break new ground but provides enough laughs and a feel-good factor, making it a decent one-time watch. The film’s simplicity and the relatability of its characters make it enjoyable, especially for those looking for a light-hearted movie to watch with their loved ones.