Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3: Movie Review

The Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise has long been synonymous with its unique blend of horror and comedy, setting a benchmark in Bollywood with its quirky storytelling and memorable characters. Directed by Anees Bazmee, the third installment enters a cinematic landscape where expectations are high. Riding on the success of its predecessor, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 had the daunting task of recreating the magic that once captivated audiences. Unfortunately, while the film offers a few moments of laughter and nostalgia, it falls short of delivering a cohesive and satisfying experience.

This installment attempts to cater to both traditional fans of the franchise and a modern audience seeking fresh, progressive narratives. However, the juggling act between sticking to classic tropes and introducing a contemporary edge often feels forced, resulting in a story that struggles to find its footing.

Kartik Aaryan Shines in a Dim Narrative

At the heart of the film is Kartik Aaryan, reprising his role as Ruhaan, the ghostbuster-turned-charlatan. With his natural flair for comedy and charm, Kartik manages to inject life into an otherwise uneven narrative. His portrayal of Ruhaan, a man tasked with handling the vengeful Manjulika, is entertaining and reminiscent of Akshay Kumar’s iconic performance in the original.

Ruhaan’s character is once again placed in a palatial setting, navigating a labyrinth of ghosts, secrets, and long-buried family conflicts. The storyline explores themes of patriarchy, pride, and suppressed desires, but these elements remain surface-level, failing to add meaningful depth to the plot. While Kartik’s comedic timing and screen presence keep the film afloat, even his efforts can’t compensate for the script’s shortcomings.

Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan: A Missed Opportunity

When powerhouse performers like Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan grace the screen, expectations naturally skyrocket. Unfortunately, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 squanders their immense talent, relegating them to underdeveloped roles that fail to make a lasting impact.

Madhuri Dixit’s rare portrayal of a character with grey shades hints at untapped potential. In one particular scene, she showcases her ability to embody a deeply flawed and conceited individual, leaving viewers wishing the script had explored her character further. Vidya Balan, reprising her role from the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa, is another casualty of the weak narrative. While her character has evolved, the script doesn’t do justice to her formidable talent, leaving her presence overshadowed by the film’s chaotic focus on Kartik Aaryan.

A Disjointed Blend of Horror and Comedy

The hallmark of a successful horror-comedy lies in its ability to seamlessly merge humor with scares. While Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 makes several attempts at this balance, the results are often uneven. At 157 minutes, the film overstays its welcome, stretching its humor and horror elements beyond their limits.