Jobaaj Stories
Is The Bhootni Worth Your Time? A Spooky-Funny Review
Let's be honest, sometimes you just crave a silly, over-the-top movie. The Bhootni, starring Mouni Roy, Sanjay Dutt, Sunny Singh, and Palak Tiwari, aims for exactly that—and whether it succeeds depends entirely on your tolerance for delightfully absurd horror-comedy.
A Whirlwind of Ghosts, Gags, and a Very Specific Bhootni
The film opens with a premise that's immediately familiar: a haunted college, spooky happenings, and a group of friends caught in the supernatural crossfire. But The Bhootni differentiates itself (or tries to) by focusing on a very specific ghost, hence the title. The "The" is not just stylistic; it hints at an unusual level of specificity—which unfortunately doesn't translate to a particularly strong plot.
- Mouni Roy's Performance: Roy, known for her role as Naagin, takes on the titular Bhootni. While her appearance is frequently praised, her role in the film appears, according to many viewers, somewhat underutilized.
- Sanjay Dutt's Charm: The veteran actor, Sanjay Dutt, injects a welcome dose of charisma and quirky humor. His performance as a tantrik is a highlight for many viewers, adding a much-needed element of fun to the proceedings.
- Mixed Reviews: Early viewer reactions have been a mix of amusement and disappointment. While some appreciate the lighthearted approach and silly humor, many criticize the film's weak plot, forced comedy, and inconsistent pacing.
Many reviewers noted that while the film attempts to blend horror and comedy in the style of successful films like Stree, it falls short. The humor, often described as childish or reminiscent of older YouTube videos, fails to consistently land, leaving viewers feeling more confused than entertained. Several critics highlight a lack of compelling dialogue, with most of the film relying on one-liners that rarely hit the mark.
One X user succinctly summarized the experience as "a colossal headache," highlighting the weak plot and uneven performances. Another compared it unfavorably to Stree, suggesting that while Stree paved the way, The Bhootni stumbled and vanished into obscurity.
Beyond the Spooks: Analyzing the Film's Strengths and Weaknesses
Despite its shortcomings, The Bhootni isn't entirely devoid of merit. The chemistry between Sunny Singh, Aasif Khan, and Nikunj Sharma provides some genuinely funny moments. Sanjay Dutt's presence adds a layer of unexpected charm. The film aims for pure, unadulterated entertainment, eschewing complex narratives for simple, silly fun.
- Directorial Choices: Director Sidhaant Sachdev's approach is clearly one of lighthearted fun. The film's visuals and background score are often praised, suggesting a visual style that complements the chaotic energy of the narrative.
- The Story Itself: The core concept, a ghost inhabiting a college during Holi, is a playful blend of familiar tropes. While predictable, its execution is arguably the problem.
Final Verdict: A Fun, Flawed Flick
The Bhootni isn't a cinematic masterpiece, nor does it aspire to be. It's a film that acknowledges its own limitations and embraces the absurdity. If you're in the mood for a breezy, occasionally funny horror-comedy that doesn't demand much from the viewer, it might just hit the spot. However, if you're looking for a cohesive narrative and genuinely scary thrills, you might be better off looking elsewhere.
Ultimately, The Bhootni's success lies in its self-awareness. It knows it's silly, and that, at times, is enough.
