Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 bursts onto the scene with a spooky and mystical aura, building on the legacy of its predecessors. Helmed by director Anees Bazmee, the third installment continues the tradition of blending horror with comedy, aiming to present an entertaining concoction of frights and laughs. The film attempts to draw audiences in with its initial jump scares, but it doesn’t take long before the chills begin to feel somewhat repetitive. As the horror starts to wane, the film’s humor steps in to bolster the narrative, albeit unevenly.
The story follows Ruhan Randhawa, also known as Rooh Baba, portrayed by Kartik Aaryan, who runs a business exploiting people’s superstitions by duping them as a ghostbuster. His routine is interrupted when he encounters Meera, played by Triptii Dimri, who is eager to offload her ancestral mansion, believed to be haunted by the infamous ghost of Manjulika. As the tale unfolds, we’re pulled back centuries to a tale of royal betrayal and murder. Princess Manjulika, consumed by a desire for power, had taken her brother’s life to claim the throne, only to be executed by her father. The lore sets the stage for the haunted atmosphere that Rooh Baba must navigate.
Kartik Aaryan’s journey into the haunted haveli begins as the character Rooh Baba infiltrates the ominous environment, encountering challenges that grow spookier by the moment. In this eerie setting, restoration artiste Mallika, portrayed by the incredibly talented Vidya Balan, makes her entrance. Her presence is shrouded in mystery and suspicion, heightening the tension. Balan, reprising her impactful role from the initial film, significantly elevates the enigmatic environment.
As the plot thickens, Madhuri Dixit’s character, Rani Sahiba, is introduced. She brings her unique charisma to the table, sparking interest in purchasing the haunted residence, which connects her deeply to the haveli’s dark past. Unveiling her true intentions, the narrative reveals Rani Sahiba and Mallika as estranged sisters of the deceased prince, adding another layer to the complex tapestry of history and horror.
Despite the strong setup and stellar ensemble, including Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, Rajesh Sharma, and Ashwini Kalsekar, the film struggles to maintain momentum.
. Bazmee brings his seasoned experience as a comedy director to the forefront, injecting humor that occasionally hits the mark, evoking laughter among the audience. Yet, these moments are inconsistent, with some jokes falling flat, leading to a comedic experience that feels intermittently forced.
The core issue of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 lies in its pacing and narrative direction. Early elements of fright and comedy gradually morph into a wait for resolution, as the storyline meanders in search of a clear path. The film’s journey seems lost in the haunted halls of its own plot, leaving viewers often wondering where it is headed. Despite its intriguing premise, patience is tested as the hauntingly humorous narrative elongates without decisive clarity.
Madhuri Dixit’s performance becomes a beacon, offering compelling moments that engage viewers amidst the unfolding chaos. Her portrayal aligns seamlessly with the spectral essence of Manjulika’s world, giving audiences a reason to remain engaged. Her theatrical skill lends depth to the film, grounding its fantastical elements.
Yet, in the end, it is Bazmee’s concluding scenes that attempt a grand comeback. The film manages to weave its threads into a poignant climax, wrapping up the chaotic narrative under one unified roof without divulging too many details. However, the execution takes a primitive approach, leaving some aspects feeling underdeveloped. Kartik Aaryan, despite showing potential, finds his performance occasionally overshadowed by the script’s demands.
Nonetheless, the film stands as a testament to another formidable ‘stree’ dominating cinema screens alongside other notable releases of the year. Even if not entirely anchored in terror or laughter, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’s culminating moments resonate with audiences, rounding up an intricate tale that celebrates the genre’s quirks and charms. The journey through its haunted corridors may be bumpy, yet it resonates with echoes of intrigue that linger beyond its final act.
