Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, arrives as the latest installment in the beloved Bollywood horror-comedy franchise. This third chapter brings back the legendary character “Manjulika,” amplifying the suspense with a fresh storyline and surprises that redefine what fans might expect. With a cast led by Kartik Aaryan, and featuring Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit in dynamic roles, the film expertly blends nostalgia with new thrills.
Plot and Direction:
Set in a haunted mansion with a mysterious past dating back two centuries, the story unfolds with eerie legends and curious villagers seeking the help of Roo Baba, played with aplomb by Kartik Aaryan. A significant twist in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 comes in the form of dual (or perhaps even triple!) Manjulikas, a narrative choice that plays cleverly with the audience’s expectations and keeps them guessing until the very end. Bazmee’s decision to shoot two endings, with the final choice unknown even to the actors, heightens the intrigue and makes the film an engaging theatrical experience.
Performance:
Kartik Aaryan, often portraying a comic-relief figure, takes on a more nuanced role, capturing both humor and horror effortlessly. His comedic timing resonates well with audiences, even reminding fans of Akshay Kumar’s iconic comedic moments from previous installments. Vidya Balan, in her reprisal as the mysterious Manjulika, returns with an even darker, more formidable presence, while Madhuri Dixit adds a touch of class and depth that keeps the audience rooted.
Cinematography and Music:
Visually, the film maintains a balanced approach, with horror sequences featuring jump scares placed at unexpected intervals. The haunting background score, punctuated by Shreya Ghoshal’s vocals on “Aami Jai Tumar,” captures the eerie yet exciting atmosphere Bazmee seeks to build, though at times, the frequent musical breaks feel like a distraction, slowing down the pace unnecessarily.
Highlights:
The film’s real triumph lies in its climax, crafted to deliver a unique cinematic shock that audiences likely won’t anticipate. Anees Bazmee’s decision to include a psychological angle in the storyline, similar to the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa, adds a layer of depth and resonance, making it more than just a comedy-horror flick.
Drawbacks:
Despite its strong points, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 sometimes leans too heavily on humor, detracting from its horror elements. The songs, while catchy, act as a double-edged sword, halting the flow of suspense and detracting from the otherwise tightly woven plot.
Final Verdict:
Overall, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 stands as a solid, entertaining addition to the franchise, balancing nostalgia with clever new twists. The combination of Kartik Aaryan’s versatile performance, Vidya Balan’s haunting screen presence, and the surprising climax make it a worthwhile watch for families and fans of Bollywood horror-comedies. Bazmee’s daring climax and unexpected twists are sure to be talked about for a long time.