In Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, director Anees Bazmee brings back the horror-comedy genre with the festive cheer, but it’s clear the film faces challenges blending innovation with franchise expectations. Kartik Aaryan reprises his role as Ruhaan, and while he brings undeniable energy and humor, the film’s reliance on repetitive tropes creates an inconsistent experience. The plot revolves around Ruhaan’s ghostbusting antics as he navigates a haunted palace filled with dark family secrets, yet the script stretches the storyline, making some scenes feel excessively drawn out.
Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan are included in the cast as powerful figures with eerie roles, but their characters, unfortunately, don’t receive enough screen time to truly impact the narrative. Madhuri’s portrayal hints at a potential for depth and complexity, showcasing shades of a deeply flawed character. Vidya Balan, reprising her role from the original, brings nostalgia but isn’t given the plot depth that her fans might have hoped for. Both powerhouse actors, despite moments of brilliance, are ultimately underused in favor of comedic elements, leaving a void in what could have been a more thrilling horror element.
The supporting cast, including Vijay Raaz and Sanjay Mishra, delivers laughs that add levity, yet some jokes feel overused, diminishing the horror aspect that Bhool Bhulaiyaa fans eagerly anticipate. Triptii Dimri’s character adds to the promotional flair but lacks depth, feeling more like an accessory than a key player in the storyline. Bazmee’s direction juggles traditional horror elements with an attempt at fresh twists, yet it often leans on superficial scares and cultural stereotypes, diluting its impact.
Bazmee pays homage to classic Bollywood horror tropes, even using elements reminiscent of the Ramsay Brothers and iconic 90s horror shows. The film’s attempt at including a progressive narrative twist falls short, seeming like an afterthought amid the chaotic maze of horror-comedy beats.
While Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is entertaining in parts, it struggles to maintain a coherent tone, balancing horror, humor, and star power without fully utilizing its stellar cast. Fans of the franchise may enjoy the nostalgia and comedy, but the film’s undercooked storyline keeps it from reaching the eerie heights of its predecessors.
Embrace the chills, and enjoy the laughs, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking over your shoulder as you leave the theater…
Overall Rating: 3/5