A solid twist elevates this Diwali entertainer

Synopsis: Conman Ruhaan parading as a ghostbuster Rooh baba (Kartik Aaryan), is confronted by not one but two evil forces in a haunted mansion that put his survival and analytical skills to test.

Story: Keeping with the theme of the franchise, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 also pits an unassuming cheeky protagonist against a spooky haveli with a buried past. The century-old mansion needs to be restored to its former glory and sold, but Manjulika’s terrorising presence in it forbids the owners from doing so. The royal family in dire need of resources, seeks Rooh baba’s intervention. The fraudster takes up the lucrative offer only to find himself tangled in a mess as he discovers two dark forces who claim to be Manjulika.

Close on the heels of Stree 2’s thumping success, comes yet another horror comedy. Anees Bazmee returns to direct BB after his 2022 hit, having taken over from Priyadarshan, who helmed the Akshay Kumar original (2007). Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is structured more as a comedy with elements of horror. Ensemble comedies have been Bazmee’s forte (Welcome, No Entry) after all, so the departure from Priyadarshan’s psychologically tense theme is understood. A particular scene revolving around a superstar is the highlight of this film and one of its finest scenes.

BB3 keeps you invested, and nowhere does it get tiring but it does have its static phase where the comic punches don’t quite land as much as they should. The story takes a considerable amount of time to build up, but the wait feels rewarding, thanks to a thoughtful twist in the climax. You don’t see it coming at all and the makers succeed in giving a sensible and mature spin to a massy entertainer. The art direction deserves a mention too. The production value is a notch above the previous instalments.

Kartik anchors the film as he reprises the role of Ruhaan/Rooh baba. He has the maximum screen presence and owns the role. Though this is a Kartik Aaryan show all the way, the women have been a solid backbone and crowd pullers in this franchise. Be it Tabu in the previous film or Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit in this one, the celebrated actresses are absolute scene stealers and stunners.

The film marks the return of Vidya Balan to the franchise after her stellar portrayal of Manjulika in 2007. She lets her eyes do the talking. Vidya has Madhuri Dixit for company and together, they are like fire and ice. Madhuri with her million-dollar smile, powerful presence and graceful dance moves is a sight to behold. Their iconic dance-off in Ami Je Tomar, where each performs a distinct classical dance form – Madhuri predominantly Kathak, Vidya – blend of Bharatnatyam-Odissi, is worth the hype. It’s tough to match up to Madhuri as far as dance is concerned but Vidya pushes herself skilfully. The song placement feels a bit sudden. However, the visual appeal and riveting performances make up for it. Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra and Ashwini Kalsekar, are extremely talented and deserved better lines. Triptii Dimri’s character arc could have been fleshed out better.

BB3 has its share of highs and lows but it delivers what you expect from a Diwali family entertainer. Make sure you guard the climax for others to enjoy the film, too.

See more: ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ Box Office Day 1: Kartik Aaryan starrer makes over Rs 35 crore