Shaitaan
Vikas Bahl’s “Shaitaan” is a hauntingly atmospheric possession thriller that will leave you chilled. A remake of the Gujarati film “Vash,” the movie prioritizes atmosphere and unease over jump scares, creating a truly unsettling experience.
Full Credits:
Directed by: Vikas Bahl
Written by: Aamil Keeyan Khan
Starring: Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan, Jyothika, Janki Bodiwala, Anngad Raaj
Music by: Amit Trivedi
Produced by: Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, Kumar Mangat, Abhishek Pathak
Demons in the Details:
- Superbly Crafted Atmosphere: The film’s greatest strength is undoubtedly its atmosphere. Director Vikas Bahl masterfully builds dread and suspense, keeping you glued to the screen. The sound design and visuals work perfectly in tandem to create a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.
- Possession Portrayed Brilliantly: The possession element is the core of the film’s horror, and it’s delivered exceptionally well. R. Madhavan’s performance as the antagonist is nothing short of chilling. He embodies the insidious nature of possession with a captivating intensity that will send shivers down your spine.
Room for Exorcism (in the Script):
- Horror Lacks Bite: While the atmosphere excels, the traditional horror elements take a backseat. Jump scares are sparse, and the focus is more on psychological dread than visceral thrills. This may leave some horror fans wanting a more intense experience.
- Script Could Use a Blessing: The well-developed atmosphere exposes shortcomings in the script. The initial intrigue wanes as the narrative unfolds, with some unanswered questions leaving viewers wanting more. Compared to the meticulous attention paid to the atmosphere, the script feels less polished.
Final Verdict:
“Shaitaan” is a film that excels in creating a hauntingly immersive atmosphere. The possession theme is masterfully portrayed by a stellar performance from R. Madhavan. However, the script’s shortcomings and lack of traditional horror elements may leave some viewers longing for a more well-rounded experience. If you’re looking for a film that prioritizes dread and unsettling vibes over jump scares, “Shaitaan” is worth a watch.
