In the latest cinematic offering, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, director Anees Bazmee returns with another installment in his popular horror-comedy franchise. This new chapter seeks to captivate audiences with a dynamic mix of spooky elements, historical intrigue, and comedic flair. However, while the film starts with plenty of thrills, the initial excitement gradually fades as familiar jump scares lose their impact and the narrative begins to meander.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 features an impressive cast, including Kartik Aaryan, the ever-talented Vidya Balan, and veteran actress Madhuri Dixit, alongside promising talent Triptii Dimri. They are supported by a lively ensemble of actors such as Rajpal Yadav, Vijay Raaz, Rajesh Sharma, and Ashwini Kalsekar. The film, penned by Aakash Kaushik, attempts to weave together elements of horror, humor, and history into a coherent story with a runtime of 2 hours and 38 minutes.
We are reintroduced to Ruhan Randhawa, or Rooh Baba, played by Aaryan, who runs a business exploiting people’s superstitions as a self-proclaimed ghostbuster. A turning point in his con game arrives when he encounters Meera (Dimri), a woman keen to sell her haunted ancestral haveli. The house harbors the restless spirit of Manjulika, a princess who perished violently at the hands of her father 200 years ago for murdering her brother, Prince Debendra Nath (also portrayed by Aaryan). A family curse decrees that only a member of the royal lineage can free the mansion from Manjulika’s ghostly grip.
Rooh Baba’s venture into the ghost-riddled haveli is closely followed by restoration artist Mallika, played by Vidya Balan. Her every move is cloaked in enigma, making it clear she harbors ulterior motives. While audiences are still puzzled by her true intentions, the narrative expands to introduce Rani Sahiba, portrayed by Madhuri Dixit. This character seeks ownership of the ill-fated haveli, and we eventually learn that she, along with Mallika, are siblings of the slain prince. This revelation adds a further layer of family drama to the ghostly proceedings.
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Despite the potential for fright, the supernatural thrill of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is soon eclipsed by the challenge of maintaining engagement. The film’s attempt at humor often feels forced and repetitive, burdening the pacing and causing the storyline to drift. Bazmee’s reputation as a director skilled in blending comedy in his works is undeniable, but here, despite sporadic laughs, the humor at times struggles to strike the right chord. Still, there are moments that deliver genuine amusement, providing bursts of laughter amidst the rather slow and aimless progression.
What stands out in this otherwise uneven film is Dixit’s performance. Her magical presence and flair infuse life into the fictional world of Manjulika. Her scenes offer a refreshing jolt of energy and are in perfect harmony with the eerie atmosphere surrounding the haunted haveli.
The climax of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 defies the overall scatter-shot execution by successfully crescendoing into an unexpected twist. Without divulging spoilers, it can be revealed that Manjulika’s enigma is given a poignant narrative resolution, amalgamating all characters under the roof of intrigue and mystery. However, Bazmee’s predictable direction and the cast’s underwhelming performances during pivotal moments fall short, detracting from what could have been a more impactful ending. Nevertheless, Kartik Aaryan exhibits ambition by venturing into more complex character portrayals, hinting at versatility beyond his usual roles.
In a cinematic year overshadowed by the success of Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 seeks to carve out its niche in the genre, albeit with mixed results. Despite its shortfalls, there’s an undeniable charm in the mass appeal and boisterous energy that it endeavors to channel, making for an experience filled with cheer and the occasional call to laughter. As the film credits roll, one may leave the theater acknowledging its narrative ambition, even if it ultimately falls short of fully realizing its grand vision.
