Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Anees Bazmee and scripted by Aakash Kaushik, makes a bold comeback, bringing with it a dose of supernatural intrigue mixed with comedy. Following the successful Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, this third installment stars Kartik Aaryan, who reprises his role as Ruhaan, aka Rooh Baba, a self-proclaimed ghostbuster. Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit also grace the film, adding a fresh layer of mystique and nostalgia.
Set to captivate audiences this Diwali weekend, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 blends elements of horror and comedy in a way that’s unique to the franchise. Despite its imperfections, the film’s lighthearted tone and lively performances make it a crowd-pleaser.
Plot Overview and Characters
The movie opens with a flashback set in Bengal centuries ago, where a dancer is transformed into a vengeful spirit following her tragic death. Fast-forward to modern-day Kolkata, where Ruhaan, also known as Rooh Baba (Kartik Aaryan), entertains his clientele as a phony exorcist. He’s accompanied by Tillu (Arun Kushwah), his easily frightened assistant. Though Rooh Baba pretends to communicate with the dead, his bravado vanishes when faced with rodents, adding a humorous touch to his character.
Rooh Baba’s latest assignment brings him to a haunted palace, under the behest of Meera (Triptii Dimri) and her uncle (Rajesh Sharma). Here, he meets a struggling royal family, led by the Maharaja (Vijay Raaz), who are forced to live in poverty due to the alleged hauntings that make the palace unsellable. Adding to the charm of this eerie yet comical setup is a malnourished cow and extreme thriftiness that keeps the toothpaste tubes lasting for ages.
Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit’s Power-Packed Presence
As the film progresses, we meet Vidya Balan, reprising her role from the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Madhuri Dixit, who joins as a heritage restoration expert. Their presence enhances the narrative, especially in a face-off dance sequence where the two don traditional attire. Vidya, dressed in Bharatanatyam costume, and Madhuri, in a Kathak outfit, deliver a dance-off that’s both enthralling and symbolic of their diverse talents.
While their performances occasionally border on excess, both actors stay true to the film’s quirky tone, embodying a spirit that aligns with the cinematic world of Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Their performances elevate the film, and their expressions and dance moves communicate far more than words.
Comic Relief and Supporting Cast
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 boasts an impressive lineup of comedic actors, each adding depth and humor. Vijay Raaz shines as the Maharaja, portraying a blend of eccentricity and royal pride. Sanjay Mishra, Rajesh Sharma, and Ashwini Kalsekar further amplify the laughs with their unique comic timing. Rajpal Yadav, as usual, brings his trademark energy to the role.
The first half of the film flows with witty banter and physical comedy, embodying slapstick humor. However, as the plot delves deeper into the supernatural, the narrative shifts, prioritizing suspense over hilarity.
A Rollercoaster of Humor and Horror
True to the franchise, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 doesn’t aim to terrify but rather to entertain. Unlike pure horror films, the movie’s horror-comedy balance makes it appealing to a broad audience. It relies on playful scares rather than intense frights, making it suitable for those who prefer humor with a side of suspense.
Much like its predecessors, the film embraces quirks like the constant mispronunciation of “Manjulika,” the iconic ghostly name. Each character in the film has a unique way of pronouncing it, creating a guessing game for the audience. The suspense of Manjulika’s identity keeps viewers engaged, with the final reveal delivering a surprising twist.
Although Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 falters at times, especially as it transitions from comedy to horror, it’s still a fun ride. The screenplay falters in parts, but the charm of Kartik Aaryan’s Rooh Baba keeps the audience invested. The film’s reliance on language humor, including playful distortions of Bengali phrases, might miss the mark for some but remains entertaining.
A Nostalgic and Entertaining Diwali Release
For fans of the franchise, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 offers enough nostalgia, with references to the iconic “Aami je tomaar” tune and other Bengali melodies. The filmmakers pay homage to the original film while introducing fresh elements, creating a blend of the old and the new. Vidya Balan’s return after 17 years serves as a delightful nod to loyal fans.
Though the film may lack the technical polish of a high-budget horror film, its simplicity and comedic approach make it a refreshing break from action-heavy, hyper-masculine films. The harmless antics and slapstick humor are a welcome relief from the more intense themes that dominate the big screen today.
Final Verdict: A Box-Office Hit in the Making?
Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal of Rooh Baba, coupled with the film’s entertaining mix of horror and comedy, is likely to draw in crowds. While Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 doesn’t aim to scare its audience, it succeeds in delivering a lighthearted, engaging experience that’s perfect for the festive season. With Aaryan’s growing popularity and the iconic appeal of Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 may very well replicate the success of its predecessor.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 promises an enjoyable cinematic escape that celebrates laughter and suspense, making it a must-watch for fans of horror-comedy.