Well-balanced horror-comedy has an engaging storyline
Starring: Kartik Aaryan, Tabu, Kiara Advani, Rajpal Yadav Director: Anees Bazmee
THIS standalone story is a follow-up to hit 2007 comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa and has a similar theme, but with a brand-new cast.
This time around the story revolves around a woman trying to get out of a marriage, who pretends to be dead and puts a plan into motion that involves bringing home a fake psychic, which inadvertently leads to a real spirit being released after being trapped in a room for 18 years. What follows is a spooky tale of an angry ghost, murder and a family mystery slowly being unravelled.
The spiritual sequel has taken many elements from the original and repackaged them into a new story, but it will likely divide audiences right down the middle.
Fans of the genre will enjoy its mix of horror and comedy, which balances well as the film progresses. It has plenty of funny moments, witty oneliners, a scenic setting, and interesting set pieces throughout. All of this is built around a solid enough storyline that keeps you largely engaged.
There are also strong performances from most of the cast. Kartik Aaryan once again shows that he is a natural when it comes to comedy and has impressive screen presence. He holds the film together with an enjoyable performance. A terrific turn from Tabu as twins demonstrates that she is one of the finest actresses working in India and shows why so many producers bring her into a movie to add gravitas. She doesn’t disappoint and will delight her fans.
The supporting cast, especially Rajpal Yadav, are engaging throughout. The only real weak link is leading lady Kiara Advani, who looks out of her depth next to more accomplished co-stars.
On the flipside, fans of Bhool Bhulaiyaa will perhaps see this follow-up as a lesser version in many ways, from the story to the music and direction. Also, those who don’t like the ‘leave your brains at home’ type of comedy will find the film annoying and really silly in a lot of places. That doesn’t stop it from being one of the better Bollywood films that have been released this year and why it will give that quick fix of entertainment to die-hard fans of the genre. Just don’t expect it to be memorable enough to revisit.