Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
**Review Summary: *Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2***
*Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2* is a horror-comedy that draws inspiration from its predecessor, *Bhool Bhulaiyaa* (2007), but is not a direct sequel. While it shares a few elements—like the iconic Chhota Pandit (Rajpal Yadav), the haunted haveli, and the vengeful spirit Manjulika—this film takes a different approach by leaning more into possession horror, black magic, and supernatural antics rather than the psychological horror of the original.
The film follows Ruhan (Kartik Aaryan), a carefree young man who falls for Reet (Kiara Advani) during a vacation in Himachal Pradesh. He follows her to her family’s mansion in Rajasthan, which is haunted by the spirit of Manjulika. As Ruhan becomes a local hero, known as *Rooh Baba* for his supposed ability to see dead people, the ghostly presence grows stronger, leading to a series of chaotic events.
*Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2* starts off as a rom-com, with light-hearted humor and witty gags that don’t rely on toilet jokes, a refreshing change in contemporary comedy. Kartik Aaryan's charm and easy-going persona keep the first half entertaining, and director Anees Bazmee, known for his comedic films, skillfully works his magic with the lighter moments. However, as the horror elements come into play, the film falters. The scares don’t quite land, with jump cuts and exaggerated camera angles failing to deliver genuine horror. The film seems to shy away from embracing a more intense or gory horror experience, keeping it family-friendly but less effective in terms of thrill.
Tabu’s portrayal of Manjulika is the standout performance of the film. She brings her seasoned acting prowess to create a character that is both terrifying and fascinating, delivering black magic scenes with intensity and conviction. Tabu’s ability to elevate any role is fully displayed here. Kartik Aaryan, on the other hand, keeps things light and fun with his goofball character, a departure from the original film's more serious protagonist. His chemistry with Kiara Advani is endearing, and his comedic timing adds to the film's charm. Kiara’s role as the skeptical, non-believer is underplayed but provides a nice balance to the chaos around her.
In conclusion, *Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2* is a fun, if uneven, film that shines with strong performances, particularly by Tabu and Kartik Aaryan. While it may not deliver the same psychological thrills as its predecessor, it succeeds in its comedic moments and has its heart in the right place. It's an enjoyable watch for those looking for light-hearted entertainment with a supernatural twist.
Richard Boyd