Akshay Kumar has returned to his trademark slapstick comedy with Housefull 5, which released on June 6. But the film has done more than just reviving a popular franchise, it has introduced a new theatrical strategy – two different endings, released simultaneously as Housefull 5A and Housefull 5B.
Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, known for Dostana, the fifth instalment in the Housefull franchise is being screened across a massive 5000 screens in India, making it one of the widest releases of Kumar’s career. But what’s making headlines is its unusual strategy — two versions of the same film with alternate climaxes.
What’s different in Housefull 5A and 5B?
Set aboard a luxurious cruise ship, the film revolves around the mysterious murder of a billionaire, played by veteran actor Ranjeet, who is killed shortly after announcing that his fortune will go to his heir, Jolly. The catch? There are three men named Jolly on board — played by Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Abhishek Bachchan — each accompanied by their respective love interests, portrayed by Jacqueline Fernandez, Sonam Bajwa, and Nargis Fakhri. All become suspects in the ensuing chaos.
The two versions — 5A and 5B — share the same 140-minute runtime for the most part. However, the final 20 minutes offer completely different climaxes, revealing different culprits and resolutions. This makes each version a unique viewing experience and sets up the film as a kind of whodunit with a comedic twist.
Why does Housefull 5 have two endings?
The strategy behind releasing two endings is clear – to encourage repeat viewings. Producers are hoping that viewers will return to theatres to experience both versions.
In a promotional video shared by Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, Akshay Kumar and Riteish Deshmukh invited fans to watch the film twice — once for each ending. This marketing push ties directly into the studio’s broader attempt to revive the culture of multiple theatre viewings, a trend that has faded in recent years.
Which one should you watch?
Early audience reactions suggest that Housefull 5A offers a more cohesive resolution, while 5B, though similar in structure, feels slightly less natural to some viewers. Still, the overall response to the film has been largely positive, with viewers praising the return of the franchise’s signature absurdist humour and ensemble chaos.
Most multiplexes are screening both versions equally, typically allocating two shows per screen to each version
Alongside Kumar, Deshmukh, and Bachchan, the film also features Fardeen Khan, Nana Patekar, Jackie Shroff, Johnny Lever, Chunky Panday, Dino Morea, Ranjeet, and newcomers like Soundarya Sharma. Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala under his banner Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, Housefull 5 marks the return of one of Bollywood’s most commercially successful comedy franchises.