The much-anticipated "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3," directed by Anees Bazmee, hit theaters in 2024 as the third installment of the iconic horror-comedy franchise. Starring Kartik Aaryan as Ruhaan, Vidya Balan as the hauntingly memorable Manjulika, and Madhuri Dixit in a pivotal role as Mandira, the film promised a thrilling mix of spooks, laughs, and unexpected twists.
Plot Summary
"Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3" continues the legacy of its predecessors, blending humor with eerie supernatural elements. The story follows Ruhaan, a self-proclaimed exorcist, who is called to a hauntingly beautiful yet cursed palace to deal with a string of supernatural disturbances.
As Ruhaan navigates the haunted halls, he uncovers layers of mysteries about the palace's dark past and the vengeful ghost of Manjulika, who seems more powerful and enigmatic than ever. The narrative takes audiences through a labyrinth of horror, humor, and suspense, culminating in a shocking climax that reframes Manjulika’s story and delivers a jaw-dropping twist
Key Performances
- Kartik Aaryan once again shines as Ruhaan, balancing comedic timing with moments of genuine terror. His performance adds a fresh yet familiar flavor to the film.
- Vidya Balan as Manjulika remains the centerpiece of the haunting narrative. Her portrayal is chilling and reminds audiences of her unforgettable role in the first movie.
- Madhuri Dixit as Mandira adds depth and gravitas to the story, portraying a character that ties the present narrative to the palace’s haunting past.
What Worked
- Engaging Climax: Critics widely praised the film’s final twist, which added depth to Manjulika’s character and brought a refreshing perspective to the haunted palace's legacy.
- Performances: The star-studded cast, led by Kartik Aaryan, Vidya Balan, and Madhuri Dixit, delivered standout performances that carried the movie even during its slower moments.
- Atmosphere: The palace setting and chilling background score successfully created an immersive experience for audiences, blending humor and horror effectively in certain parts.
What Didn’t Work
- Pacing Issues: The film's buildup was criticized for being overly stretched, making parts of the narrative feel sluggish.
- Predictable Elements: While the climax was surprising, many elements of the movie’s story felt repetitive, echoing tropes already explored in the earlier installments.
- Lack of Innovation: Some reviewers felt that the movie failed to bring anything significantly new to the franchise, relying heavily on nostalgia.
Critical Reception
The film has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
- The Times of India appreciated the climax, stating, “The story takes a considerable amount of time to build up, but the wait feels rewarding, thanks to a thoughtful twist in the climax.”
- Hindustan Times was less impressed, noting, “Kartik Aaryan and Vidya Balan shine in a splendid climax, but only after two agonizing hours.”
- Scroll.in critiqued the movie for its lack of originality, commenting, “Imagination is largely in short supply in the threequel. Except for a twist about Manjulika's identity that works well, the film has little that we haven't seen before.”
- News18 felt the film didn’t live up to expectations, stating, “Kartik Aaryan, Vidya Balan, and Madhuri Dixit’s star power can’t save this lackluster film.”
Conclusion
"Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3" is a rollercoaster ride that offers glimpses of brilliance but doesn’t quite match the charm and novelty of its predecessors. While the performances and the climax stand out as highlights, the film’s slow pacing and reliance on familiar tropes may leave some fans yearning for more.
For fans of the franchise, "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3" is worth a watch for its nostalgic appeal and strong cast. However, for those seeking a groundbreaking horror-comedy experience, it might not fully deliver. Whether you love it or find it lacking, the film remains a significant chapter in the "Bhool Bhulaiyaa" saga.