It’s hard to ignore the allure of a sequel when the first film was such a massive hit, but this one certainly ups the ante. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, starring Kartik Aaryan, Kiara Advani, and Tabu, takes us back into the world of eerie havelis, mysterious spirits, and plenty of comic relief. Directed by Anees Bazmee, this film steps into the horror-comedy genre just like its predecessor. Set in the present day, mostly within a grand, decaying haveli, it mixes traditional Indian beliefs in spirits and reincarnation with modern humor and contemporary storytelling.
The plot follows Ruhaan, played by Kartik, who crosses paths with Reet (Kiara) under odd circumstances. Together, they find themselves entangled in the supernatural mysteries of Reet’s ancestral haveli, which has long been sealed off due to the rumored haunting by the ghost of Manjulika. The eerie haveli, brimming with secrets and dark corners, becomes the setting for an unraveling story of ghostly pasts, family dynamics, and, of course, lots of humorous moments. Without giving too much away, the story takes twists and turns as Ruhaan becomes “Rooh Baba,” a self-proclaimed expert in dealing with ghosts, as he navigates through the legends of Manjulika and the real threat that lurks in the shadows.
One of the film’s strongest points is its acting, particularly Kartik’s portrayal of Ruhaan. Known mostly for his comic timing in romantic comedies, Kartik blends that humor with a sense of mischief, making his performance both entertaining and dynamic. His lighthearted approach to the role keeps the movie’s tone playful, even during the darker, more suspenseful moments. He’s in his element when the script calls for comedic beats, and his energy carries much of the film’s lighter sequences. On the other hand, Tabu is the true show-stealer. Her portrayal of Anjulika and the duality of her character gives the movie its depth and weight. Whether she’s playing the role of the protective sister or slipping into more sinister aspects of her character, Tabu commands attention every time she’s on screen. Kiara’s role as Reet, though charming, feels a bit underutilized compared to the stronger performances around her, but she brings an innocence to the plot that balances the film’s intense moments.
The direction by Anees Bazmee, known for his knack for comedy, finds an interesting balance between humor and horror. While the film leans more heavily into comedy than its predecessor, the director still manages to build suspense in key moments. There’s a clever interplay between light-hearted banter and spine-chilling sequences, though the film often prioritizes laughs over scares. Bazmee uses the sprawling haveli to his advantage, filling the screen with wide-angle shots of the mansion’s haunting architecture. The winding corridors, shadowy rooms, and ancient decor help to create an immersive atmosphere. The pacing of the movie is fairly quick, with little time for the audience to get too comfortable before another twist or joke is thrown their way.
Cinematography is another noteworthy aspect of the film. Manu Anand’s camera work breathes life into the haveli, transforming it from just another haunted house into a labyrinth of secrets and danger. The lighting plays a significant role here, with certain scenes drenched in deep, ominous hues, while others are lit more warmly to offset the horror elements. The cinematography during some of the more intense scenes involving Manjulika’s spirit is particularly well done, with sudden shifts in perspective adding to the tension. The sweeping shots of the haveli’s interiors give it a menacing, almost claustrophobic feel, especially when the ghost’s presence becomes more apparent.
Music, composed by Pritam, plays a huge role in setting the tone for the film. The title track, a revamped version of the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa anthem, brings back a sense of nostalgia while also fitting seamlessly into the modern context. The background score is effectively eerie in the moments that need tension and excitement. While the songs add a commercial appeal, they don’t detract from the plot too much, blending smoothly into the narrative. A particular standout is the haunting melody that accompanies Manjulika’s scenes, sending shivers down the audience’s spine and evoking memories of the first film’s iconic music.
Costume design is another aspect that adds depth to the characters. Tabu’s attire, particularly in her more dramatic scenes, is crafted in a way that subtly hints at her character’s emotional and psychological state. The traditional garments she wears feel like they’re woven into the history of the haveli itself, while Kartik’s more modern, laid-back wardrobe contrasts sharply, reminding us that he’s an outsider to this mysterious world. The costume choices play a small but important role in underlining the cultural clash between modern skepticism and ancient beliefs in the supernatural.
One area where the film falters slightly is in its over-reliance on comedy. While the jokes are entertaining and the lighter moments are well-executed, the film sometimes loses the tension necessary for a true horror experience. The balance between horror and comedy skews heavily toward the latter, which might disappoint viewers expecting more of the thrills that the original delivered. Some of the side characters, introduced purely for comedic relief, can feel unnecessary at times, diluting the intensity of the plot. However, for audiences who prefer a fun, spooky adventure over a full-on scare fest, this isn’t a major issue.
In conclusion, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 delivers a fun, entertaining experience with enough suspense to keep viewers engaged, but it doesn’t quite match the psychological tension of the original. The performances, particularly by Kartik and Tabu, are commendable, and the direction and cinematography effectively bring the eerie atmosphere to life. While the film leans more on comedy than horror, it still manages to capture the essence of what made the first movie so beloved. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, spooky film with a good mix of laughs and thrills, this sequel is worth watching. It’s a crowd-pleaser that taps into nostalgia while creating its own unique charm.
