FILM REVIEW: BHOOTH BANGLA

BY

SUYASH PACHAURI

GLOBAL BOLLYWOOD | DIRECTOR'S DAILY CLAPBOARD

Introduction

Directed by Priyadarshan, Bhooth Bangla marks the much-awaited reunion of the iconic duo Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan after years. Backed by producers Ekta Kapoor, Shobha Kapoor, and Akshay Kumar under banners like Balaji Motion Pictures and Cape of Good Films, this horror-comedy aims to revive the classic blend of fear and laughter. With a strong ensemble cast and nostalgic appeal, the film sets out to entertain both old fans and new audiences.

Screenplay & Script Sense

The story by Aakash Kaushik and screenplay contributions from Abilash Nair, Priyadarshan, and Rohan Shankar attempt to balance horror and comedy. Dialogues by Rohan Shankar add humor, but the film leans more on situational comedy than sharp writing. While the narrative has entertaining moments, it occasionally feels stretched and predictable.

Direction

Priyadarshan brings his signature comedic timing and chaos-driven storytelling. Known for classics like Hera Pheri, his direction ensures moments of laughter, but the horror elements don’t always land effectively. The film works best when it embraces its comedic roots rather than trying to balance both genres equally.

Acting

Akshay Kumar leads the film with his trademark comic timing and screen presence. Veterans like Paresh Rawal and Tabu add depth and nostalgia, while actors like Rajpal Yadav and Govardhan Asrani bring in classic comedic flavor. Supporting performances from Wamiqa Gabbi and Mithun Chakraborty further elevate the ensemble.

Cinematography

Handled by Divakar Mani, the visuals are polished and vibrant. The film uses lighting effectively to create a spooky yet entertaining atmosphere, especially within the haunted mansion setup.

Music & Background Score

Music by Pritam Chakraborty delivers catchy tracks, while the background score by Ronnie Raphael supports the film’s tonal shifts. Songs featuring voices like Arijit Singh, Shreya Ghoshal, and Diljit Dosanjh add commercial appeal.

Editing

Edited by M. S. Aiyyappan Nair, the film feels slightly lengthy. While the comic sequences are engaging, tighter editing could have improved pacing and impact.

Production Design & Technical Aspects

Production design by Sabu Cyril effectively creates the eerie mansion setting, while costumes by Veera Kapur Ee and team enhance character aesthetics. Sound design by Shahaab Alam and M. R. Rajakrishnan adds depth, while action sequences are handled by Ravi Thyagarajan.

Breakdown Scale:

• Opening Act: Nostalgic and light-hearted, sets up characters well.

• Mid Section: Mix of humor and horror, though slightly inconsistent.

• Climax Build-Up: Chaos-driven comedy peaks.

• Finale: Entertaining but predictable resolution.

Verdict:

Bhooth Bangla is a fun, nostalgic horror-comedy that leans more on humor than scares.

Final Verdict

Powered by Akshay Kumar and directed by Priyadarshan, the film offers moments of laughter and nostalgia but falls short of being a perfectly balanced horror-comedy.

On the plus side:

• Strong comic performances by Akshay Kumar & Paresh Rawal

• Nostalgic Priyadarshan style direction

• Catchy music by Pritam Chakraborty

• Rich production design by Sabu Cyril

On the minus side:

• Weak horror elements

• Lengthy runtime affects pacing

• Predictable screenplay

BY

SUYASH PACHAURI

GLOBAL BOLLYWOOD | DIRECTOR'S DAILY CLAPBOARD