The latest installment in the Bhool Bhulaiyaa series, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, emerges as a complex tapestry of horror, humour, and historical intrigue. Directed by Anees Bazmee, this film reunites audiences with the beloved characters from the previous films while introducing new faces to the franchise. However, despite the promising foundations of its premise, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 struggles to maintain the delicate balance between its seemingly incongruent genres, eventually veering towards a humorous narrative that attempts to make up for its diminishing horror elements.
The film opens with an eerie, chilling atmosphere that sets the stage for a supernatural tale. Jump scares capture the audience’s attention, as expected in any horror film, yet their novelty soon fizzles out, prompting the narrative to lean heavily on its comedic elements. This transition, while expected in a horror-comedy, doesn’t entirely preserve the suspense the film initially builds. Providing much-needed entertainment, the humour occasionally hits the mark, offering viewers moments of laughter amidst the ghostly proceedings.
Leading the ensemble cast is Kartik Aaryan, reprising his role as Ruhan Randhawa, also known as Rooh Baba, a charlatan ghostbuster who exploits superstitions for personal gain. Rooh Baba’s escapades take a serious turn upon crossing paths with Meera, played by Triptii Dimri. Meera is determined to sell her ancestral haveli, notorious for being haunted by the infamous ghost of Manjulika. Simultaneously, Vidya Balan returns as Mallika, a restoration artist whose mysterious motives add layers to the unfolding mysteries. Adding to the impressive lineup is the illustrious Madhuri Dixit-Nene as Rani Sahiba, who too has vested interests in purchasing the cursed property.
Historical accounts threaded into the plot recount the tragic tale of Princess Manjulika, tormented 200 years prior under horrific circumstances. The princess is burnt alive, blamed for killing her brother, Prince Debendra Nath, over inheritance rights—a tale brought to life again with Rooh Baba, bearing an uncanny resemblance to the deceased prince.
. An ancient prophecy insists the royal family’s bloodline is key to excising the malevolent spirit, thrusting Rooh Baba into unforeseen haunted adventures.
Despite its ambitious storyline, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 wades through moments of uncertainty. Bazmee crafts a film that feels hesitant to decisively reach a climactic juncture, stretching audience patience as the intertwined comedy takes over with comedic encounters that vary in their success rate. Nevertheless, credit goes where it’s due, as Madhuri Dixit’s portrayal breathes life into the supernatural scape, seamlessly blending theatricality with vivid realism. Her performance stands as a highlight, encouraging audiences to maintain interest despite the film’s overall sluggish pacing.
The development and conclusion of the narrative appear unexpectedly poignant, potentially elevating the film’s perception beyond its reality. While avoiding specifics that could spoil the plot’s surprises, the eventual climax manages to intertwine unresolved mysteries with an emotional conclusion, tying together the ensemble cast in an unexpectedly touching end. Despite this, the delivery seems antiquated, impeding the lasting effect that could have been achieved through more polished direction and performances.
Kartik Aaryan asserts himself as a growing presence in Bollywood’s evolving landscape, showcasing ambition even as Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 falls short in places. Yet it complements a year marked by cinematic prowess from films like Stree 2, reinforcing the notion that whether visible or shrouded, strong female characters—those like Manjulika and beyond—remain pivotal to enthralling narratives. It’s a testament to substantial storylines’ ability to empower and entertain, even when the execution stumbles.
In summary, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 serves as a kaleidoscope of horror, humour, and heartfelt moments, delivered through a star-studded cast that attempts to blend contrasting elements into a cohesive picture. Despite struggling with narrative coherence, the finale redeems many of its stumbles, offering a conclusion that resonates on some empathetic levels. At the core of its essence lies the unyielding spirit of Manjulika—a presence both ominous and integral, animating the shadowy hallways of Bhool Bhulaiyaa once more.
