Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee, seeks to captivate audiences: not just with its horror elements, but also its quirky blend of humour, suspense, and familial ties steeped in history. At its outset, the film succeeds in delivering spine-tingling moments, evoking gasps and heightening tension, thanks to its eerie atmosphere and the haunting presence of Manjulika. However, as the narrative unfolds, these traditional jump scares lose their edge, with viewers soon sensing a repetition that diminishes the initial thrill.
Following successful predecessors, Bazmee’s third endeavor brings back the beloved elements of the franchise. Returning to the screen is Kartik Aaryan, reprising his role as Ruhan Randhawa, affectionately known as Rooh Baba. The inimitable Vidya Balan, who immortalized the character of Manjulika in the 2007 original, makes a notable return, adding layers to the film’s complex narrative. Joining them is an ensemble of seasoned actors, including Triptii Dimri, the captivating Madhuri Dixit-Nene, and stalwart performers Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, Rajesh Sharma, and Ashwini Kalsekar.
The film’s storyline, crafted by Aakash Kaushik, is a patchwork quilt of supernatural tension interwoven with humor and heart. However, this delicate balance is disturbed as the film meanders through its extensive 2-hour-and-38-minute runtime, occasionally straying from its core and losing direction. Rooh Baba’s journey begins as a quirky tale of a con artist exploiting people’s superstitions for financial gain. Yet, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Meera, played by Triptii Dimri. She is eager to sell her family’s ancestral mansion, a haunted haveli that harbors the tormenting spirit of Manjulika.
The chilling backstory embedded in the film traces the origins of Manjulika, a princess who met a fiery end at her father’s hands. Accused of murdering her brother, Prince Debendra Nath, to claim his stake to the throne, Manjulika’s spirit haunts the haveli. The only hope lies in a descendent from her royal lineage capable of banishing her ghost.
Rooh Baba accepts the challenge, venturing into this realm where the past meets the present. He is accompanied by Mallika, played with enigmatic grace by Vidya Balan, whose character’s machinations stir curiosity and suspense.
. As the plot thickens, audiences meet Rani Sahiba, portrayed by Madhuri Dixit. Rani’s motives remain cloaked in mystery until it is revealed that she, along with Mallika, are actually sisters of the wronged prince, adding a familial twist to the tale.
Baazmee’s knack for comedy shines through, with moments that punctuate the narrative light-heartedly softening the horror’s edge. These instances aim to compensate for the ebbing fear factor, inviting viewers into bursts of laughter amidst the chaos. Yet, the comedic interludes aren’t consistently effective—they sometimes falter, leaving audiences yearning for the genuine scares that first lured them in. The film, despite its rich tapestry of intrigue and humor, struggles to maintain momentum. Bazmee appears to navigate a maze of his own creation, seeking an end point that seems elusive.
In this cinematic expedition, Madhuri Dixit emerges as a beacon, her performance an embodiment of the film’s fantastical spirit. Her portrayal of Rani Sahiba is spellbinding, showcasing a theatrical prowess that enriches the narrative. She keeps audiences engaged, even as the plot wavers.
The culmination of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 offers an intriguing denouement. Without revealing specifics, the film’s climax provides depth to Manjulika’s character and crafts a coherent end to a convoluted narrative. Despite the somewhat rudimentary execution, it provides a sense of closure and highlights the ambition behind Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal, marking his growth as a leading man. Still, the overall offering leaves much to be desired, falling short in delivering a holistic experience.
In a cinematic year blessed by releases like Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 introduces another compelling “stree” to the screen, whose power remains undiminished, whether visibly present or hauntingly ethereal. An investment in nostalgia meets a fresh promise—a spellbinding maze urging audiences to cheer amid the echoes of its storied legacy.
